Lost Emirates ID in UAE: The Emirates ID is a critical document for every resident and employee in the UAE. It acts as the primary form of identification and is mandatory for banking, housing, employment, and government services. But what happens when it’s lost or misplaced especially by one of your employees?
As an employer, knowing the legal steps to take when there’s a lost Emirates ID in UAE is essential to avoid delays, fines, or documentation issues. This 2025 guide breaks down exactly what UAE employers should do in such a scenario.
Lost Emirates ID in UAE What Employers Should Do Immediately
What Is the Emirates ID?
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), the Emirates ID is:
A national identity card for all UAE citizens and residents
Linked to work visas, labour contracts, and immigration status
Required for salary payments, tenancy agreements, health insurance, and mobile registrations
What to Do If an Employee Loses Their Emirates ID
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: Here’s the step-by-step process UAE employers should follow:
Step 1: Report the Loss Immediately
Instruct the employee to:
Visit the nearest ICP Customer Happiness Center
File an official loss report (called “Lost ID Declaration”)
Pay the AED 70–100 loss declaration fee
Obtain a reference number from the center
This step prevents potential misuse of the lost ID and allows tracking in case it is found.
Step 2: Apply for a Replacement ID
After reporting the loss, apply for a replacement Emirates ID:
Online via ICP Portal:
Visit https://icp.gov.ae
Click “Replace Emirates ID”
Fill in required fields: ID number (if available), passport number, and visa details
Upload employee’s passport, visa copy, and photograph
Pay the replacement fee: AED 300 + delivery charges
Step 3: Track ID Status
Once applied, the replacement ID is issued within 2–5 working days. Employers can track status via:
ICP Website
ICP Mobile App
SMS tracking number from Emirates Post (if home/office delivery is selected)
Employers can also choose to collect it from the designated Emirates Post branch.
Emirates ID Replacement Fees (2025)
| Fee Type | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Replacement Application | 300 |
| ICP Service Charges | 70 |
| Typing Center Fee | 30 |
| Optional Delivery | 30–35 |
Total: AED 400–450 per lost ID
Documents Required for Replacement
| Document | Who Provides It |
|---|---|
| Passport Copy | Employee |
| Residency Visa Copy | Employee |
| Passport-size Photo | Employee |
| Lost Report Reference | ICP Center |
| Labour Contract (optional) | Employer HR |
It’s good practice for HR to store employee document copies digitally for such emergencies.
What If the ID Was Stolen?
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: If there is suspicion of theft:
File a police report at the nearest police station
Include the police report number in your ICP application
This helps prevent identity fraud or misuse
Can the Employee Work Without the Emirates ID?
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: Yes but temporarily.
As long as:
Their residency visa is active
They have official proof of ID replacement in process
However, they may face issues with:
Access to government portals
Banking services
SIM card registration or rental renewals
Employer Responsibilities
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: As an employer in UAE, you must:
Support the employee in loss reporting
Cover replacement costs if contractually agreed
Update company records with the new Emirates ID number
Notify your PRO or Visa Services Team if the ID is tied to government portals
Tips for Avoiding Future Issues
Encourage all staff to scan and email a copy of their Emirates ID to themselves
HR departments should maintain secure digital backups of key ID documents
Share internal memos on what to do when ID is lost or stolen
Always have your company PRO handle urgent ICP-related issues
FAQ: Lost Emirates ID in UAE
Q: Can I still travel within UAE if I lost my ID?
Yes, but always carry a copy of your passport + visa + loss report.
Q: Will I get fined?
No, unless the ID is misused. But delays in reporting can result in late processing fees.
Q: What if the ID is found after applying for a replacement?
The original becomes invalid once a replacement is processed.
Final Thoughts
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: A lost Emirates ID in UAE is stressful but manageable if handled correctly. As an employer, your job is to assist, guide, and act quickly to help your staff comply with UAE’s identity regulations.
By following the right process and using verified platforms like ICP and Mahad Manpower UAE, you can avoid any legal or HR disruptions.