Navigating through the UAE’s administrative procedures just got a tad stricter. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has rolled out a fresh list of violations and fines for Emirates ID card services, residency services, and foreigners’ affairs. Let’s break down these updates to help you avoid any unexpected penalties.
The Violations And Their Consequences
Common Offenses Regarding Emirates ID & More
Several offences carry a fine of Dh500. These include submitting transactions unrelated to your facility, entering unrelated transactions via e-Dirham (Fawry), letting your card expire, not carrying your card while submitting transactions, violating the work system at service centres, and not adhering to pledges made to the sector.
Major Missteps
More serious offences come with heftier fines. Misusing the system, obstructing sector employees, failing to cooperate with sector staff, or not fulfilling financial obligations resulting from the service can cost you Dh5,000. Printing inaccurate applications will set you back AED 100 while providing incorrect data incurs a Dh3,000 penalty. The biggest hit? Issuing visas or entry permits to a non-practicing establishment, results in a staggering Dh20,000 fine.
Violations Specific To ID Cards
If you delay registering or renewing your Emirates ID for more than 30 days past its expiration, you’ll face a daily fine of Dh20, capped at Dh1,000. It’s essential to keep track of your ID card’s expiration date to avoid these accumulating fines.
Renewal Before Expiry
You might wonder if you can renew your residency or Emirates ID before they expire. The ICP allows for renewal two months before expiration if you have a valid reason. In special cases, you can even renew up to six months early with special permission from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Just make sure to have your documents ready: a copy of your passport, current residence visa, completed visa application form, and a letter explaining the need for early renewal. Your employer usually assists with this process if you’re employed in the UAE.
Exemptions From Fines
In some cases, you might be exempt from fines for late ID renewal. Exemptions include if your ID expired while you were outside the UAE for over three months, if it expired after deportation if your passport was withheld due to a lawsuit, or if you hadn’t yet obtained your ID before acquiring Emirati citizenship.
Unsure if you’ve committed a violation? You can check via the websites of Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, GDRFA, RTA, Ministry of Interior, and ICP Happiness Centres.
By staying informed about these new regulations, you can ensure smooth administrative processes and avoid hefty fines. Keep your documents updated and adhere to the rules to enjoy a hassle-free experience in the UAE.
Cover Image Courtesy: ICP/ Website