The Emirates ID card is an indispensable document for residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It serves as an official identification tool and is required for various transactions such as opening a bank account, getting a driving license, and accessing government services. Losing or damaging this essential piece of identification can be quite distressing, but rest assured that the UAE authorities have set up efficient systems to help you replace your ID.
The Emirates ID card holds a wealth of information about the cardholder, including name, nationality, gender, and date of birth. It also contains a unique 15-digit identification number that is linked to the holder’s personal data. This card is not just an identification tool; it is a smart card equipped with an electronic chip holding biometric data. In essence, it is a highly secure and technologically advanced method of verifying a person’s identity, making it a crucial tool for both residents and the UAE government.
Replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID involves several steps, from reporting the incident and deactivating the lost card to applying for a replacement and paying the required fees. Each step is integral to the process and must be executed carefully to ensure the issuance of a new ID. This guide will take you through each step in detail, providing helpful tips and advice along the way.
How to Track Lost Emirates ID
Unfortunately, there is currently no official system in place to track a lost Emirates ID. Therefore, the best course of action after losing your card is to immediately report the incident to prevent misuse of your personal data.
Since there isn’t a formal tracking mechanism, you should prepare to immediately proceed with the reporting and replacement process. However, if you believe you’ve misplaced it within your home or workplace, it might be worth thoroughly searching those areas before initiating the procedure.
How to Lost Emirates ID Online
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security has streamlined the process of reporting a lost ID online. Visit the official ICA website or download the ICA UAE app. Through either portal, you can submit the form for a lost or stolen ID card request, thereby immediately deactivating the lost card. Please note that you need to provide valid identification papers to verify your identity during this process.
Tip
When reporting a lost ID, make sure you have all necessary documents at hand. UAE nationals need their original valid passport and a family book. GCC nationals require a document proving their residency in the UAE, while expatriate residents should have their original passport stamped with a valid residency permit. If the lost ID belongs to a child under 15, the parent must provide the child’s original birth certificate and a colored passport photo against a white background.
Fees for Lost Emirates ID
The cost of replacing a lost or damaged ID consists of two parts: the replacement fee and the application fee. The replacement fee is AED 300, while the application fee is AED 70 if you apply through a typing center, or AED 40 if you use the eForm on the ICA website. These fees are applicable to all UAE nationals, GCC nationals, and expatriate residents.
For those in need of an expedited service, there’s an express ID replacement available at the ICA’s main Customer Happiness Centre for an additional AED 150. This service ensures you receive your ID card within 24 hours from the time of submitting the replacement application.
How to Deal with Lost Emirates ID Outside UAE
If you lose your Emirates ID card while you’re outside the UAE, the process remains largely the same. You should immediately report the loss through the ICA website or app and proceed to apply for a replacement. When you return to the UAE, you can collect your new ID.
One of the potential complications of losing your ID outside the UAE is the difficulty of providing necessary documents in person. However, the online reporting and application system addresses this issue, allowing you to initiate the process from anywhere in the world. Just ensure you have digital copies of all necessary documents.
How to Replace Lost Emirates ID
Once you have reported the loss, you can move onto applying for a replacement. The application form can be filled out at any of the ICA’s Customer Happiness Centres or through the UAE ICP app. After submitting the form and paying the required fees, your application will be processed. You’ll receive a text message from ICP detailing the status of your application and the expected delivery date for your new ID.
The standard time frame for issuing a replacement ID is 48 hours from the time of submitting the application. However, if you’ve chosen the express service, your ID will be ready within 24 hours. Once you receive a message from ICP regarding the availability of the card, you can contact Emirates Post to arrange delivery.
How to Report Lost Emirates ID to Police
When and why you should report lost Emirates ID to police
If you suspect that your ID was stolen rather than lost, it is advisable to file a report with the local police. This will help protect you in case your ID is used in any illegal activities.
Procedure for reporting a lost Emirates ID to police
To report a stolen ID, visit the nearest police station with your identification documents and provide a detailed account of the incident. The police will issue a report, which can be useful for your records and may be required by the ICA during the ID replacement process.
Replacement Fee
The Emirates ID replacement fee is structured to cover the costs associated with creating and delivering a new card. As previously mentioned, the replacement fee is AED300, with an additional application fee of AED 70 or AED 40, depending on whether you apply through a typing center or online. An express service is also available for an extra fee of AED 150.