Emirates ID Renewal in UAE – Online Process, Fees & Time

The Emirates ID is a mandatory identification document for every UAE resident, citizen, and GCC national living in the country. It is not only used as proof of identity but also required for banking, healthcare, employment verification, SIM card activation, and access to government services. Because the card has an expiry date, renewing it on time is extremely important to avoid fines, service interruptions, and legal issues.

This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about Emirates ID Status Check including eligibility, renewal timing, required documents, processing steps, biometric requirements, delivery, fees, and common problems. The content is written with clarity and authority so that users can complete the renewal process confidently without confusion.

Emirates ID Renewal System in the UAE

In the UAE, all Emirates ID services are managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, widely known as ICP. This authority is responsible for maintaining the national identity database, verifying resident information, managing biometric records, and issuing physical ID cards.

When an Emirates ID approaches its expiry date, the renewal process becomes available through ICP’s official digital platforms. The system is designed to be centralized and transparent, allowing applicants to submit renewal requests online and track progress without visiting service centers unless biometrics are required.

When Should You Renew Emirates ID

Renewing the Emirates ID at the correct time is essential to remain compliant with UAE regulations. Residents are allowed to renew their Emirates ID once their residence visa is renewed or extended. The renewal window usually opens shortly before expiry, giving applicants sufficient time to complete the process.

Delaying renewal can result in daily fines and restricted access to essential services. For this reason, authorities strongly advise residents to begin the renewal process immediately after visa renewal rather than waiting for the card to expire.

Eligibility Criteria for Emirates ID Renewal

Emirates ID renewal is available for individuals whose existing ID is nearing expiry or has already expired within the allowed grace period. UAE nationals, expatriate residents, and GCC nationals are all eligible, provided their residency or legal status in the UAE remains valid.

Applicants must ensure that their residence visa is active before applying. If the visa has expired or is under renewal, the Emirates ID renewal process cannot be completed until the visa is updated in the system.

Required Documents for Emirates ID Renewal

For a smooth and delay-free renewal process, applicants must ensure that all documents submitted are valid, clear, and updated in the ICP system. Document requirements vary slightly depending on residency status, but accuracy is critical in every case

A valid passport copy with clear personal details
A renewed and active UAE residence visa
Existing Emirates ID details for reference
Family book and passport for UAE nationals
National ID or passport with UAE residence proof for GCC nationals

Submitting incomplete or outdated documents is one of the most common reasons for application delays. It is strongly recommended to verify all personal details before submission to ensure faster approval.

Step-by-Step Emirates ID Renewal Process

The renewal process is primarily digital and user-friendly. Applicants can submit their request through the ICP website or the ICP Smart mobile application. Once the application is submitted, it enters the verification stage, where personal details and visa information are reviewed.

If biometric data is already available and valid, the application may proceed without requiring a center visit. However, in some cases, applicants are asked to attend a biometric appointment to update fingerprints or facial recognition data. After approval, the card is printed and dispatched for delivery.

Emirates ID Renewal Status Stages Explained

Status Stage	Meaning	Explanation
Renewal Submitted	Application received	Data entered into system
Under Review	Verification in progress	Details being checked
Biometrics Required	Physical verification needed	Visit ICP center
Approved	Renewal accepted	Ready for printing
Card Printed	ID produced	Prepared for dispatch
Dispatched	Sent to courier	Delivery in progress
Delivered	Card received	Renewal completed

Each stage reflects real-time progress and updates automatically once requirements are fulfilled.

Biometrics Requirement During Renewal

Biometric verification is not required for every renewal, but ICP may request it if records need updating. Biometrics include fingerprint scanning, facial image capture, and digital signature verification. Applicants who have not updated biometrics for a long time are more likely to be called for this step.

Attending the biometric appointment on time ensures the application continues smoothly without extended delays.

Emirates ID Renewal Processing Time

Processing time depends on application volume, visa validity, and whether biometrics are required.

Application Type	Estimated Processing Time
Standard Renewal	Around one week
Renewal with Biometrics	One to two weeks
Priority Service	One to two days

Public holidays or peak periods may slightly increase processing times, but the system remains efficient overall.

Emirates ID Renewal Fees in the UAE

Service Type	Fee
Renewal One Year	AED 170
Renewal Two Years	AED 270
Replacement During Renewal	AED 300
Priority Processing	Additional charges

Fees vary depending on residency duration and urgency level.

Emirates ID Card Delivery After Renewal

Once the renewed Emirates ID is printed, it is dispatched via an authorized courier service. Applicants receive an SMS with tracking details and an estimated delivery date. Delivery is usually made to the address provided during the application process.

If delivery attempts fail, the card is held at the courier office for collection, ensuring it is not returned unnecessarily.

Common Issues During Emirates ID Renewal

Although the renewal system is streamlined, some applicants may experience delays or issues due to technical or documentation-related reasons. Understanding these issues helps in resolving them quickly.
Residence visa not updated in the system

Biometric data missing or outdated
Mismatch between passport and visa details
High application volume during peak periods
Delays caused by public holidays or system maintenance

Most of these issues can be resolved by updating records through the ICP portal or visiting an authorized customer happiness center. Acting promptly prevents fines and extended processing times.

Why Timely Emirates ID Renewal Is Important

Renewing the Emirates ID on time ensures uninterrupted access to essential services such as banking, healthcare, employment verification, and government platforms. An expired ID can lead to fines, service suspension, and unnecessary administrative complications.

Monitoring the renewal process carefully helps residents stay compliant with UAE laws and avoid stress.

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Conclusion

The Emirates ID renewal process in the UAE is designed to be efficient, secure, and user-friendly, provided applicants follow the correct steps. By renewing immediately after visa extension, submitting accurate documents, and attending biometric appointments when required, residents can avoid delays and penalties. Staying informed throughout the process ensures peace of mind and continued access to essential services once the renewed card is issued. Completing Emirates id renewal on time is not just a requirement, but a crucial part of living responsibly in the UAE.