The Emirates ID is the official identity document for all UAE citizens and residents. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), it’s used for visa status, health services, banking, and much more. So when an employee reports a lost Emirates ID, it can disrupt legal, payroll, and residency processes.
As an employer in the UAE, it’s your responsibility to act swiftly and in line with 2025 guidelines to avoid fines, protect your workforce, and maintain compliance.
Lost Emirates ID in UAE—What Employers Should Do Immediately
Why a Lost Emirates ID Is a Serious Matter
In the UAE, the Emirates ID:
Acts as proof of identity and residency
Links to the UAE visa
Is required for MOHRE registration, banking, Emirates Health card, and more
Must be valid and present during labour inspections
Therefore, a lost Emirates ID must be reported and replaced promptly to avoid
Government fines or delays
Rejection of salary processing through WPS
Medical insurance issues
Visa renewal or cancellation issues
Immediate Steps for Employers When Emirates ID Is Lost
Step 1: Get a Written Report from the Employee
Ask the employee to:
Write a statement detailing how and when the Emirates ID was lost
Include any police reference number (if reported)
Provide a copy of their passport and visa page
Tip: Keep this document in the employee file for legal and audit purposes.
Step 2: Visit the Nearest ICP Customer Happiness Center
Employers or PROs should accompany the employee to one of the official ICP service centers.
Required documents:
Original passport
Residency visa copy
Passport-sized photo
Emirates ID number (if available)
Police report (if lost due to theft)
The employee must sign a “Lost ID Declaration” form at the ICP center.
Step 3: Apply for a Replacement Emirates ID
You can submit the replacement application:
Via the ICP Website (www.icp.gov.ae)
Or through approved typing centers
Make sure to select:
“Emirates ID Replacement”
Attach scanned copies of supporting documents
Step 4: Pay the Replacement Fees
The standard Emirates ID replacement cost in UAE (2025) is:
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Replacement fee | AED 300 |
| Typing center fee | AED 70 |
| Express service (optional) | AED 150 |
Payment is made online or at the ICP center. A payment receipt is generated.
Step 5: Track and Receive the New Emirates ID
After submission:
ICP sends an SMS with application number
ID is printed and delivered to the applicant’s PO Box or Emirates Post branch
Usual processing time: 3–7 working days
Important: If the employee has travel plans, opt for express service.
Best Practices for Employers to Prevent Issues
To handle cases of lost Emirates ID efficiently:
Maintain Copies of All Employee IDs
Always keep scanned and physical copies of the front and back of Emirates ID in HR records.Use Digital HR Systems
Track ID expiry dates and flag lost ID issues using employee management tools.Offer Employee Assistance
Assign a dedicated PRO or HR assistant to support employees with government services.Issue Internal Memos
Clarify ID responsibilities and timelines through HR communication.Conduct Regular Training for New Joiners
Teach employees the importance of safe ID handling.
FAQs About Lost Emirates ID in UAE
Q1: What if the ID is stolen, not lost?
A: File a police report first. Then submit it with your replacement application to ICP.
Q2: Can employers apply on behalf of employees?
A: Yes, especially for company-sponsored employees. A PRO can submit the application with authorization.
Q3: Is a police report mandatory?
A: Not always, but it’s recommended in cases of theft or fraud. ICP may request it based on the case.
Q4: Can an employee still work without an Emirates ID?
A: Temporarily, yes. But the employer must show proof of replacement processing to MOHRE or during inspections.
Where to Apply—ICP Center Locations
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: Major UAE Emirates have service centers in
Abu Dhabi: Khalifa City A – ICP HQ
Dubai: Al Rashidiya, Karama, and Al Barsha
Sharjah: Al Dhaid
Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain: Central service offices
For a complete list: visit www.icp.gov.ae
Additional Legal Notes for 2025
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: As per UAE Labour Law and ICP guidelines (updated 2025):
Employers cannot withhold ID cards
Replacement must be initiated within 7 days of reporting
Delays beyond 30 days may attract fines on residency visa
ICP now uses advanced tracking systems linked with MOHRE and banks, so prompt reporting is crucial.
How MahadHRC.ae Can Help
Mahad HRC supports UAE-based companies with:
PRO services for document processing
Labour law compliance and HR policy audits
Employee onboarding and documentation templates
Emirates ID management systems
Direct support with lost Emirates ID cases
With years of experience across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, we help ensure smooth ID replacements for your workforce.
Sample Internal Memo for HR Records
Subject: Lost Emirates ID – Employee Notification
Date: [DD-MM-YYYY]
This is to inform that Mr. [Employee Name], holding the position of [Designation], reported the loss of their Emirates ID on [Date].
Action taken:
Police report filed ✔️
Replacement initiated with ICP ✔️
Internal HR record updated ✔️
HR is following up to ensure timely issuance and replacement of the Emirates ID.
Sincerely,
HR Department – [Company Name]
Final Thoughts
When an employee experiences a lost Emirates ID, quick action by the employer is critical. It’s not just about identity; it affects legal residency, payroll, visa renewals, and work rights. By following the steps in this guide, your company can maintain full compliance, protect your workforce, and avoid unnecessary fines or disruptions.
Trust MahadHRC.ae to manage all your HR documentation, ID processing, and labour compliance needs in the UAE.