Khaleej Times, Tuesday, Feb 07, 2023 | Rajab 16, 1444
2 apps, e-Emirates ID help you get easy access to government services
Emirates:
UAE residents are advised to download the UAEICP app and the UAE PASS for ‘easy
access’ to services, particularly if they have worked at different government
departments, are looking to travel, or require a digital signature.
UAE PASS is the first secure national digital identity for citizens and
residents, which enables them to access many online services across various
sectors, sign and authenticate documents as well as transactions digitally,
request a digital version of their official documents, and use the official
documents to request for other services.
Earlier, the Federal Authority for Identity and Nationality, Customs and Ports
Security (ICP) called on all individuals to download the UAEICP application and
benefit from the varied services offered, including requesting a visit visa for
a relative or friend.
Sowmya Kumar, CEO of Clever Corp Business Advisors, says, “ICP is not mandatory.
It aids individuals in having his/her visa page and EID handy instead of
carrying a hard copy or having a soft copy on their mobile. The UAE Pass is not
mandatory, but we tell our clients to have it because everything is getting
digital now; it eases things.”
Explaining the process, Kumar adds, “For example, if somebody has worked with
Dubai Police, next day with Dubai Municipality and on the third day if there is
work with some other department… at every authority you don’t need to create a
new login or account. Everything can be accessed through the UAE Pass. Suppose
you are travelling outside the country, and if one has a verified UAE pass, then
that person can even do digital signatures of documents. Assuming a person has
to be present for court signing but has to travel, then what is the solution?
With the UAE Pass, if verified and approved, one can even do a digital signature
(without being physically present).”
A major update to the visa system was when the ICP said that the Emirates ID
would replace the visa sticker on residents’ passports.
The UAE PASS extracts details from the Emirates ID to reveal information like
the EID number, its issue date, expiry date, and about your employer. A typing
centre agent in Dubai said, “UAEICP portal helps in applying for the visa, or if
you want to check validity or check your fines, then you can go to the ICP app.
You can get a (soft) copy of your EID and view your residency approval there.
There are many services given on the ICP portal. The UAE Pass is the secure
digital identity in the UAE of an individual. But none of these is mandatory;
it’s meant for people’s convenience.”
UAEICP
This application allows locals, residents, and visitors of the United Arab
Emirates to benefit from the services of the Federal Authority for Identity,
Citizenship, Customs & Port Security like visas, residencies, payment of fines,
printing the family book, renewal of passport for the citizens and many other
services.
Summary of the services:
Apply for a residence entry permit for your
family members.Apply for a new residence for your family members.
Renew residence permits for your family members
Apply for cancelling residency for anyone sponsored under your
sponsorship.
Apply for a visit visa for your relatives. You can generate the travel
status report and the list of people you sponsor.
Check your residence and entry permit status.
Request a new or renew UAE passport.
Print the family book for locals.
Extend your on-arrival visa.
Pay fines for visas and residencies.