Emirates ID to stay same for returning expats

The ID Number (IDN) issued to an applicant by Eida is unique and will not change throughout the person’s lifetime, even if he/she leaves the country and returns after a number of years,” Abdulaziz Al Maamari, Public Relation and Marketing Director, Eida, told Emirates 24|7.

“The ID number is linked to a person’s biometrics, and just like those are exclusive to a person, the ID number is similarly unique. The physical ID card, on the other hand, is linked to the residency visa and must be reissued whenever a new visa is issued.”

Hence, people who were residents of the UAE and had the Emirates ID card, upon their return to the country should visit a registration centre to retrieve their unique ID number and proceed to a typing centre to apply for the ID card renewal service.

Residency visa

Eida also clarified that no residency visa will be issued unless an applicant has applied or renewed their Emirates ID card.

“We have begun rolling out the linkage between issuance of a residency visa and the application for the ID card, so that no residency visa is issued unless the applicant has applied for an Emirates ID card. As a result, all residents will eventually have to apply for a new or renewed ID card,” Al Maamari said.

“Moreover, through planned linkages with governmental and non-governmental services, and with the planned roll-out of electronic services requiring the ID card for authorisation, having the ID card will become essential for UAE residents and nationals to guarantee services.”

Earlier this month, Eida said that residents have until the end of this month to renew expired ID cards. Applicants who fail to apply for or renew their Emirates ID card will have to pay an accumulative fine, reaching a maximum of Dh1,000.

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