Emirates ID to replace UAE residency visa page on passports

Move is effective from April 11 and follows the introduction of next-generation Emirates IDs

The new Emirates ID looks like this. Stan Cooper / The National

And these are the new features it includes. Stan Cooper / The National

The card includes a 3D picture. The date of birth of the cardholder is visible, and there is enhanced protection of non-visible data. Employment information can also be stored. Victor Besa / The National

If your Emirates ID has expired you can download a digital version. Services and businesses have been instructed to accept it everywhere. Victor Besa / The National

A copy of the EID can be downloaded using the UAE Pass app, available on the Apple and Android stores. Victor Besa / The National

You can also get a digital ID via the ICA UAE Smart app, which can be downloaded free from the Apple and Android stores. Victor Besa / The National

The first recipients of the new cards will be those whose current Emirates ID has expired, as well as those requesting replacements for lost or damaged cards. Victor Besa / The National

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship Building in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National

Residency visa stickers are to be replaced with the Emirates ID in the UAE from April 11, authorities have said.

The Emirates ID - the country's identification card system - will contain details of a residents’ visa status, once a medical test is passed.

It means residents will no longer have a page in their passport taken up with a visa sticker.

The move was confirmed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security on Tuesday which said it was a UAE Cabinet decision.

A circular was sent by the authority to departments and airlines who can now verify the residency status through the passport number and Emirates ID.

The move comes after a “new generation” of Emirates IDs was revealed last August.

The enhanced card has a string of new features such as non-visible data and increased service life of more than 10 years.

It includes a 3D picture using laser-printing technology to show the date of birth of the cardholder.

It was launched as part of an ongoing project to revamp identification cards and Emirati passports.

Authorities have already started to roll out the new card.

It is a legal requirement for all citizens and residents to possess an Emirates ID.

The card has a unique number assigned to the holder and it is used to access everything from government services to smart travel gates at airports.

Last June, officials said residents applying for their Emirates ID or renewing the card could use a digital copy until they received the physical version.

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