For a foreign worker in the UAE, the Emirates ID is not optional paperwork. It is your identity card for banks, health insurance, SIM cards, government services and labour complaints, and it is issued as part of your residence visa process. Workers often lose money here: a late renewal fine builds up daily, and some employers keep the card. This guide explains how the Emirates ID works for workers, what it costs, how to check its status and what to do if something goes wrong.
- The Emirates ID is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and is required for all UAE residents.
- For expatriates, it is linked to your residence visa. When the visa is cancelled, the ID is cancelled too.
- The standard fee is AED 100 per year of validity, plus service and delivery charges. An urgent service is available for an extra AED 150.
- If you do not renew within 30 days after expiry, a fine of AED 20 per day applies, capped at AED 1,000.
- Per the UAE government portal, companies are not allowed to withhold employees’ Emirates ID cards.
What the Emirates ID Is Used For
The card is a biometric smart card carrying your identity data. Banks require it to open and operate accounts, as explained in our guide to opening a UAE bank account. You also need it to register health insurance, use government apps and access labour services. Carry it, or keep a digital copy in the ICP app.
How Workers Get an Emirates ID
The application starts automatically once your employer processes your residence visa. After your entry permit and medical test, you complete biometric registration (fingerprints and photo), and the card is then printed and delivered. Our guide to checking your UAE work visa status explains the earlier steps, and our Dubai work permit requirements guide lists what the employer must submit. For a new job, your employer normally pays the visa and Emirates ID processing costs under UAE labour rules, so confirm this in writing.
Renewal: Step by Step
1. Know your expiry date
Your card validity is tied to your residence visa. Renew the ID together with the visa, not after it, so you do not end up with a valid visa and an expired card.
2. Apply through ICP
Use the ICP website, the UAEICP app or an ICP-approved typing centre. You will need your old card and passport details, and ICP may ask for a recent colour photo.
3. Pay the fees
Fees depend on the validity period you are granted, and typing centres charge a higher service fee than the online channel. Pay any late fine first, because it must be cleared before the renewal can complete.
4. Collect or receive the card
The card is delivered by post or collected from a service centre. Update your phone number and address with ICP, and report personal data changes within one month of the change.
Fees at a Glance
| Item | Reported amount |
|---|---|
| Card fee for expatriates | AED 100 per year of validity |
| Service and delivery charges | Vary by channel; online is usually cheaper than a typing centre |
| Urgent service | Additional AED 150 |
| Late renewal fine | AED 20 per day after 30 days from expiry, up to AED 1,000 |
| Replacement of a lost or damaged card | Reported at around AED 300 plus service fees |
Fees are updated by ICP, so check the current figures on the ICP website before you pay a typing centre or agent.
The Late Fine: How It Builds Up
ICP has confirmed that customers who apply more than 30 days after expiry face AED 20 for each day of delay, up to AED 1,000. At that rate you reach the cap after 50 days. Some categories are exempt, including people of determination and members of diplomatic missions. If you think you qualify, apply for the exemption through ICP.
Can My Employer Keep My Emirates ID?
No. The UAE government portal states that companies are not allowed to withhold employees’ Emirates ID cards, and they may only take the data from them. If your employer is holding your card, ask for it back in writing. If they refuse, raise a complaint with MOHRE. The same principle applies to passports. See our guide to working hours and leave rules for how to file a labour complaint.
Lost, Damaged or Cancelled Cards
- Lost card: report it and apply for a replacement through ICP. Keep proof of the application, since you will need ID for many services.
- Changing jobs: a new employer files a new residence application. See how to change jobs without a labour ban.
- Visa cancelled: the Emirates ID is cancelled automatically. Do not keep using an old card afterwards.
Health cover is also linked to your residence. Read our guide to health insurance for UAE employees to check that your policy renews with your ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Emirates ID cost for expats?
The card fee is AED 100 per year of validity, plus service and delivery charges. An urgent service costs an extra AED 150.
What is the fine for late Emirates ID renewal?
AED 20 per day starting 30 days after expiry, capped at AED 1,000 in total. The fine must be cleared before renewal.
Can my employer keep my Emirates ID?
No. The UAE government portal states that companies cannot withhold employees’ Emirates ID cards.
How do I renew my Emirates ID?
Apply through the ICP website, the UAEICP app or an approved typing centre, pay the fees and wait for delivery. Renew it together with your residence visa.
What happens to my Emirates ID if my visa is cancelled?
It is cancelled automatically as part of the visa cancellation process.
Where can I check my Emirates ID status?
Use the ID card status service on the ICP website or the UAEICP app.
Sources
- UAE Government Portal: Emirates ID
- Gulf Today: Dhs20 per day fine for delayed Emirates ID renewal
- Gulf News: ICP administrative violations and fines
- Virtuzone: Emirates ID requirements, renewal and fees
Last reviewed: 16 October 2026. ICP fees and procedures change, so confirm the current amounts on the ICP website or app before paying. This is general information, not legal advice.