Avoid Emirates ID Late Fees: Check Eligibility for Exemptions and Process

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), possession of the Emirates ID card is obligatory for all residents. This card serves as a comprehensive proof of identity and residency, essential for various documentation processes within the country.

Failing to renew or update the card within 30 days from the expiration date can incur late fees starting at Dh20 per day, reaching a maximum of Dh1,000.

However, you may be eligible for an exemption from Emirates ID late penalties under certain circumstances, such as prolonged absence from the UAE, deportation, or medical conditions. This article outlines the eligibility criteria for exemptions and the application process.

What is an Emirates ID Card?

The Emirates ID card is a mandatory identity document for all UAE residents. It contains the holder’s personal information, including their name, date of birth, nationality, and residency status. The card is also required for various transactions in the UAE, such as opening a bank account, renting a car, and applying for a visa.

What are the Penalties for Late Renewal of an Emirates ID Card?

If you fail to renew your Emirates ID card within 30 days of the expiration date, you will be subject to a late penalty of AED 20 per day. This penalty can accumulate up to a maximum of AED 1,000.

How to Request an Exemption from Emirates ID Late Penalties?

You may be eligible for an exemption from Emirates ID late penalties under certain circumstances. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has outlined a number of criteria that individuals must meet in order to qualify for a penalty waiver.

Also Read: How to File a Complaint with ICP for UAE Visa and Residency Issues

Eligibility for Exemption

Extended Stay Abroad: Individuals who have spent more than three months outside the country, and whose identity card expired during this period, qualify for exemption.

Deportation and Legal Proceedings: Those facing deportation or legal proceedings resulting in a seized passport can seek exemption, supported by relevant documentation.

Pre-Nationality Period: Individuals who haven’t been issued an identity card before obtaining the nationality of the country and a family book are eligible for exemption.

Health Challenges: Bed-ridden individuals, those with contagious diseases, or those with partial or full disabilities can be exempted, supported by a relevant medical certificate.

Diplomatic and Consular Staff: Staff of diplomatic or consular missions, along with those under their care, are eligible for exemption.

Elderly Individuals: Individuals aged 70 and older, unable to visit customer happiness centres, can be exempted if their age is proven through official documents.

Social Security Beneficiaries: Emiratis under the social security system, and those under their sponsorship, can seek exemption by proving their financial status with an official certificate.

Computer Errors: Fines resulting from errors during the ID card renewal process can be waived.

Application Process: Navigating Exemption Requests

Applying for the Emirates ID late penalty exemption is a straightforward process and free of charge. To begin, individuals must follow the below-mentioned simple steps;

Step 1 – Initiate Request: Begin by visiting approved printing offices, accessing the authority’s official website, or using the smart application to initiate a request for Emirates ID card renewal.

Step 2 – Fee Display: Upon initiating the request, the system will provide a comprehensive display of associated fees, including any late penalties incurred during the renewal process.

Step 3 – Check Exemption Eligibility: Assess whether you qualify for late penalty exemption based on the outlined eligibility criteria. If eligible, proceed to the next step.

Step 4 – Submission through Smart Services System: If exempt, submit your request along with the required documents through the smart services system, streamlining the application process.

Step 5 – Application Tracking: Keep track of your exemption request by monitoring the application’s progress. The system will provide updates on the status of your application.

Step 6 – Receive Approval/Rejection via SMS: Await communication via SMS regarding the final result of your application. This message will confirm either the approval or rejection of your late penalty exemption request.

Step 7 – Payment (If Rejected): In the event of rejection, adhere to the stipulated timeframe to settle the fine. Timely payment is crucial to avoid any further complications.

Step 8 – Complete ID Card Renewal: Following the resolution of the late penalty exemption, proceed to complete the Emirates ID card renewal process to ensure the timely update of your information.

Processing Time

The ICP will review your application and notify you of their decision within 48 hours. If your application is approved, you will not be required to pay the late penalty. If your application is denied, you will be required to pay the late penalty within the stipulated number of days.

Contact Information

For more information on Emirates ID late penalties and exemptions, please visit the ICP website or contact an ICP customer happiness centre.

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security
• Website: https://icp.gov.ae/en/
• Phone: +971 4 888 8888

Conclusion

If you are unable to renew your Emirates ID card on time, you may be eligible for an exemption from late penalties. To apply for an exemption, you will need to submit a completed exemption request form and supporting documentation. The ICP will review your application and notify you of their decision within 48 hours.