Losing your Emirates ID can be stressful, as it is required for almost every official and private service in the UAE, from banking to healthcare, government transactions, and visa procedures. Fortunately, the UAE has a well-defined process for replacement of lost Emirates ID, ensuring residents can quickly obtain a new card while avoiding fines or service interruptions. This guide explains the replacement process, fees, required documents, timelines, and tips for a smooth application.
What to Do When Your Emirates ID Is Lost
If your Emirates ID is lost, misplaced, or stolen, the first steps are:
- Report the loss immediately to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP/ICA). This can prevent misuse of your personal information.
- File a police report if necessary, especially if your ID was stolen. Some authorities or banks may require the report to issue a replacement.
- Prepare documents required for the replacement application, including passport and visa details.
Acting quickly helps minimize fines and ensures uninterrupted access to essential services.
Who Needs to Apply for a Replacement
Replacement is mandatory for:
- Residents who have lost their Emirates ID
- Damaged or unreadable IDs
- Stolen IDs
- Dependents and children whose IDs are lost or damaged
- Investors, Golden Visa holders, or employees with expired or invalid cards
It is the responsibility of the resident or the legal sponsor (for children and dependents) to apply promptly.
Required Documents for Emirates ID Replacement
The documents required depend on the applicant category:
| Applicant Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Adult Resident | Original passport, residence visa, lost ID report, application receipt |
| Child / Dependent | Birth certificate, passport copy of child, parent’s Emirates ID, visa copy |
| Golden / Investor Visa | Passport, investor certificate, previous ID copy if available |
| Damaged ID | Original damaged ID, passport, visa copy |
| Domestic Worker | Passport, visa copy, employer Emirates ID, lost ID report |
All documents must be valid, legible, and in acceptable formats for online or in-person submission.
Replacement Application Process
The Emirates ID replacement process can be completed online via ICP Smart Services or in-person at typing centers or ICP branches.
Step-by-Step Process
- Log in to ICP Smart Services using UAE Pass or Emirates ID application number.
- Select “Replacement for Lost or Damaged Emirates ID.”
- Fill in personal details and lost ID information.
- Upload required documents as per applicant category.
- Pay the replacement fee online.
- Book a biometric appointment if needed (for first-time replacement or children above biometric age).
- Receive appointment confirmation via SMS or email.
- Attend the biometric appointment and collect Emirates ID from courier or center once ready.
Fees for Emirates ID Replacement
Replacement fees vary based on type and urgency:
| Replacement Type | Fee Range (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Replacement | 100 – 300 | Includes late fines if ID was expired or overdue |
| Urgent Replacement | 200 – 500 | Faster processing (1–3 working days) |
| Lost ID Fine | 100 – 300 | Paid along with replacement fee |
| Damaged ID | 50 – 150 | Only if ID is unreadable or unusable |
| Child / Dependent | 50 – 150 | Fee varies by age |
Timely replacement minimizes fines and prevents penalties from overdue or lost ID.
Processing Time
| Replacement Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Standard Replacement | 7–10 working days |
| Urgent / Express Replacement | 1–3 working days |
| Children / Dependents | 5–7 working days |
| Golden / Investor Visa | 7–14 working days |
| Lost & Replaced During Visa Renewal | 7–10 working days |
Courier delivery or collection options vary depending on emirate and service center policies.
Important Considerations
- Fines: If the Emirates ID was expired before being lost, fines may apply based on overdue days.
- Biometric Update: Children or new residents may need biometric capture during replacement.
- Accuracy: Ensure all personal information matches passport and visa records. Any discrepancy can delay issuance.
- Reporting Theft: For stolen IDs, a police report may be necessary for replacement.
- Tracking: Use ICP Smart Services portal or UAE Pass to track the status of the replacement application.
Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Who should apply | Residents, dependents, domestic workers, investors, Golden Visa holders |
| Required documents | Passport, visa copy, lost/damaged ID report, parent ID (for children) |
| Fee range | AED 50 – 500 depending on type and urgency |
| Processing time | 1–14 working days depending on service type |
| Biometric requirement | Mandatory for first-time replacement or children above age limit |
| Payment channels | ICP Smart Services, typing centers, ICA branches |
Tips for Smooth Replacement
- Apply immediately after noticing loss to avoid fines or misuse
- Keep digital copies of Emirates ID and documents for easy upload
- Use online ICP portal to avoid long queues
- Schedule biometric appointments early if needed
- Check your Emirates ID delivery tracking to ensure timely receipt
- Report stolen IDs promptly to prevent identity fraud
FAQs
Q1. Can I replace my Emirates ID if it is lost abroad?
Yes, but you may need to coordinate with UAE consulates or embassies.
Q2. Is a biometric appointment always required for replacement?
Not always — it depends on applicant age and type of replacement.
Q3. Can replacement fees be paid online?
Yes, ICP Smart Services allows online payment via UAE Pass or e-payment options.