Emirates ID is more than just a piece of identification in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)—it’s your legal, digital, and personal identity all in one. Whether you’re a UAE national or an expatriate, keeping your Emirates ID active and updated is essential to living and working smoothly in the country.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to check Emirates ID status, understand common status messages, apply for a new card, renew or cancel it, and avoid problems that can delay your access to essential services.
Why Is Checking Emirates ID Status Important?
Your Emirates ID acts as your primary proof of identity in the UAE. It is required for:
- Accessing government and private services
- Opening bank accounts
- Registering utilities and telecom
- Healthcare and insurance
- Travel within the GCC
By regularly checking your Emirates ID status, you can avoid disruptions caused by expiry, delays in printing, or system errors. Especially in 2025, where digital records play a bigger role than ever, staying informed is part of staying compliant.
New Emirates ID System Features in 2025
The UAE has modernized its identity system with these recent changes:
- Real-time tracking through the ICA app
- Faster printing and delivery timelines
- Biometric integration with healthcare and airport systems
- Updated QR codes on the card for verification
- Smart renewal reminders via SMS and email
These improvements mean fewer in-person visits and more control over your Emirates ID management from your mobile device.
How to Check Emirates ID Status Online
Checking your status is now quick and digital. Here’s how:
Use the ICA Website
Go to the official Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website. Enter your application number or Emirates ID number in the status check section. It will instantly show you whether your card is under process, printed, or dispatched.
Use the ICA Smart App
The ICA UAE Smart app (available on iOS and Android) lets you check status, update information, and even pay fees. Log in with your Emirates ID or UAE Pass, and go to “ID Card Status” under services.
SMS Status Update
Text your Emirates ID number to the number provided by ICA (usually 1050). You’ll get a reply within seconds, showing your current card status.
Visit a Customer Happiness Center
If you prefer face-to-face help or if the online status is unclear, visit any nearby Customer Happiness Center. Staff will help you check your Emirates ID status or guide you with pending steps.
What Do Emirates ID Status Messages Mean?
Understanding the messages you see while tracking your Emirates ID is important. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Application Received: Your request was submitted and accepted
- Under Process: The system is reviewing your application
- Biometrics Required: You need to visit a center for fingerprints and photo
- Approved for Printing: Your ID is being printed
- In Transit: It’s on its way to the delivery point
- Ready for Collection: Pick up your card at the post office or designated location
- Delivered: Your card has been received by you
- Expired: The ID is no longer valid and must be renewed
How to Apply for a New Emirates ID in 2025
Getting your first Emirates ID? The process is simple and mostly digital now.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Gather your documents: Passport, residence visa, personal photo
- Visit the ICA website or app
- Select “New Emirates ID Application”
- Fill out your details carefully
- Upload your documents
- Pay the application fee online
- Book a biometrics appointment (if required)
- Visit the center with your original documents
- Track your application
- Receive your ID at your given address
In 2025, many first-time applications are processed without the need for multiple in-person visits, unless biometric data is missing.
Emirates ID Renewal in 2025: How and When to Do It
Renewing your Emirates ID before it expires ensures you don’t lose access to critical services.
When to Start Renewal?
Start the renewal process 30 days before the expiration date printed on your card. Delays can lead to fines.
Steps to Renew:
- Log in to the ICA portal or mobile app
- Select “Renew Emirates ID”
- Check and update your details
- Upload any updated documents
- Pay the renewal fee
- Skip biometrics unless requested
- Track your renewal process
- Receive your new card
Emirates ID Validity: How Long Is It Valid?
The duration of your Emirates ID validity depends on your residency type:
- UAE Nationals: Valid for 5 to 10 years
- Expatriates: Matches your residence visa (1, 2, or 3 years)
- Children under 15: Usually 2 years
Always plan renewals ahead of time, especially if your visa is close to expiration.
Emirates ID Cost in 2025
Knowing the cost upfront helps you plan better. Here’s what you can expect:
For UAE Nationals:
- 5-year ID: AED 100
- 10-year ID: AED 200
For Expatriates:
- 1-year ID: AED 100
- 2-year ID: AED 150
- 3-year ID: AED 200
Other Possible Fees:
- Application Fee: AED 70
- Service Fee: AED 30
- Home Delivery: AED 40
- Replacement Fee (Lost ID): AED 100
- Late Renewal Fine: AED 100 or more
Fees may vary for urgent applications or premium services.
What to Do If You Lose Your Emirates ID
Lost your card? Follow these steps to avoid problems:
- Report the loss immediately through ICA online or the app
- File a police report at the nearest police station
- Apply for replacement Emirates ID
- Pay the replacement and delivery fees
- Track your new card’s status
- Collect the new ID or wait for home delivery
Act fast. Your Emirates ID is tied to legal, medical, and financial access.
How to Cancel Your Emirates ID Before Leaving UAE
If you’re relocating permanently, cancel your Emirates ID to close your residency record.
Steps to Cancel:
- Visit a Customer Happiness Center
- Submit your passport and Emirates ID
- Fill out the cancellation form
- Pay the required fee
- Hand over the physical card
- Collect your cancellation confirmation letter
This is required when closing bank accounts or canceling your residence visa.
Why Your Emirates ID Has a Long Number
The 15-digit Emirates ID number has multiple purposes:
- Uniquely identifies each resident or citizen
- Encodes your identity, visa, and location data
- Prevents duplication or misuse
- Integrates easily with UAE’s digital infrastructure
- Meets international identity standards
Each number is permanent and assigned only once in your lifetime.
Also Read: Business Setup Consultants in Dubai, UAE
Troubleshooting Emirates ID Problems
If you face issues with your Emirates ID, don’t panic. Most problems like delays, incorrect information, or unresponsive tracking can be fixed easily. Always verify your details, follow up through the ICA app or portal, and visit a Customer Happiness Center if needed for faster resolution and real-time assistance.
Common Issues and Fixes:
Status not updating: Give it 48 hours, then contact ICA support
Wrong details on card: Visit ICA center with supporting documents
Delivery delays: Use tracking number or contact post office
Biometrics pending: Book your appointment immediately to avoid delays
SMS or email not received: Double-check contact info on your application
Conclusion
Your Emirates ID is the key to your everyday life in the UAE. From accessing services to managing your visa status, this card is central to everything. And in 2025, staying informed and checking your Emirates ID status regularly is easier than ever.
At Incorpyfy, we help individuals and businesses stay compliant and up to date with UAE documentation. Whether you’re looking to apply, renew, replace, or cancel your Emirates ID, we’re here to guide you step by step.
Need help registering your business or setting up in the UAE? We’re not just a company formation service—we’re your complete partner for navigating all legal and government documentation in the UAE.
Check your Emirates ID status today. Stay legal. Stay ready. Let Incorpyfy handle the rest.
FAQs
Can I use my Emirates ID as a travel document?
Only within GCC in limited cases. It’s not a passport.
Do children need Emirates IDs?
Yes. Even newborns must be registered within 120 days of birth.
Can I renew my ID from abroad?
Only if you’re inside UAE. ID renewals require a valid UAE visa.
Can someone else collect my ID?
Yes, with a signed authorization letter and their Emirates ID.
How long does it take to get a new card?
Usually 5–7 working days after completing all steps.
