The Emirates ID will now serve as primary confirmation of your status as an ex-pat, and visa stickers in passports will no longer be required. This is a historic change that takes effect on April 11, 2022. As the processes become more clear, here’s a fast rundown of everything you need to know about the Emirates ID.
A new generation of Emirates ID with a 10-year lifespan.
ICP stated in August 2021 that it would issue a new generation of Emirates IDs with a service life duration of more than ten years. The advanced version comprises not just the information printed on your Emirates ID – such as your personal and professional data, issuing authority, and population group – but also ‘non-visible data,’ which is safeguarded by an increased security system and may be viewed through the ICP’s e-link system.
The chip in the Emirates ID has a larger data capacity, allowing it to store a lot more information about the cardholder.
Easy access to a digital Emirates ID
The ICP stated in June 2021 that a digital version of Emirates IDs will be issued, which government departments could use if the cardholder was still waiting for a physical copy of their Emirates ID. The ICP’s smartphone application – ‘ICPUAE’ – is available for Apple and Android smartphones, and may be used to access the digital version of your Emirates ID.
Once you’ve downloaded the app, all you have to do is set up your ICP account by entering your Emirates ID number, passport number, and email address. From there, you’ll be able to view the digital version of your Emirates ID, as well as the IDs of any family members who may be sponsored by you.
How to update the mobile number connected with your Emirates ID
If you applied for your Emirates ID through an agency, or if your primary mobile number has changed, you may have trouble receiving verification codes on your phone. When a user applies for specific government services, such as acquiring a birth certificate for a newborn or having a degree certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, one-time passwords, or OTPs, are provided to them (MOFAIC). Because the verification codes are delivered to the mobile number associated with your Emirates ID, you can update it if the problem persists.
ICP provides an online service that allows cardholders to change their Emirates ID information.
Make your digital Emirates ID a “trusted digital document” by converting it.
Even while most verification methods accept your digital Emirates ID, some applications may require you to produce a physical copy of your Emirates ID. Even in these circumstances, the UAE government offers a digital service called UAE Verify, which converts digital papers into “trusted documents” that employ blockchain technology to assure that they are not tampered with. If you need to convert your Emirates ID to a digital trustworthy document, you can do so by following the instructions in our tutorial.
New photo requirements
If you are applying for a new Emirates ID or renewing an existing one, it is vital to know that the ICP has modified the photo requirements for the Emirates ID. Living in UAE met with Nasser Ahmed Al Abdouli, Director of Customer Happiness Department, earlier this year, who highlighted that if applicants’ Emirates ID applications are being rejected, it may be due to the photograph not meeting the new standards. Updated photo dimensions, as well as directions on head position and dress code, are included in the new photo rules.
Use your Emirates ID as a health card
The Emirates ID, as previously stated, has far more information than what is printed on the surface. Several government departments and service providers can obtain information about the cardholder through the ICP’s e-link services. For example, if you need to visit a hospital or clinic in an emergency, you can use your Emirates ID instead of your health insurance card because the two are linked in the online system. Obtaining health insurance is a requirement in the Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, hence it is included in the residency application procedure. So, if you don’t have your health insurance card with you, don’t worry; you can use your Emirates ID instead.
Easy immigration procedures
Travelers had used Emirates IDs to quickly pass through immigration inspections even before the news that Emirates IDs will replace residence visa stickers on passports. Instead of standing in line for immigration clearance, UAE residents can just swipe their Emirates IDs through smart gates at UAE airports.