The Emirates ID card is a vital piece of documentation for all residents in the UAE as it serves as proof of identity and residency details and is required for all documentation within the country. However, failing to renew or update the card within 30 days from the date of expiry can result in late fines of Dh20 per day, with fines reaching a maximum of Dh1,000.
The good news is that Emiratis and residents can request exemptions from penalties under specific situations as outlined by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. To qualify for the fines to be waived, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria.
The eligibility for exemption includes the following:
– Individuals who left the country for more than three months and had the validity of their identity card expire after their departure.
– Individuals whose identity card expired due to deportation, or if their passport was seized pending cases, provided that it is proven by a letter or receipt issued by the relevant authorities.
– Individuals who were not issued an identity card before obtaining the nationality of the country and the family book.
– Bed-ridden individuals, those suffering from a contagious disease, or having partial or full disabilities, proven with a medical certificate issued by relevant authorities.
– Staff of diplomatic or consular missions in the country and those under their care.
– Elderly individuals (70 years and older) who are unable to visit customer happiness centers in different emirates.
To apply for exemption, individuals must start by submitting a request for ID card renewal through one of the approved printing offices, electronically through the authority’s website, or via the smart application. The system will display the fees associated with the Emirates ID card, including any late fees incurred. If the applicant qualifies for exemption, the request can be submitted through the smart services system, along with the required documents.
The application’s progress can be tracked, and the final result, whether approval or rejection, will be communicated. Residents will then receive an SMS with the application number and within 48 hours another text message stating whether the application has been accepted or not will be sent. If it has been rejected, then the applicant is asked to pay the fine within the stipulated number of days.
It is important for residents to stay informed about these requirements and exemptions when renewing the Emirates ID card to avoid unnecessary penalties and fines.
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