ICP Smart Services – Complete Guide (2024)

The ICP Smart Services is an online system that allows you to register your arrival and departure information while applying for your Emirates ID, residential visa issuance, and visa validity in Dubai. The ICP Smart Services (The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) is responsible for identity management, citizenship, immigration, and customs control within the UAE.

Whether you’re starting a new business or undergoing a transfer to Dubai, The ICP Smart Services can help make the transition smooth and successful.

What is ICP Smart Services?

The ICP Smart Services, formerly known as the ICA Smart Services, is an innovative system managed by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. This system is designed to streamline the processes related to the entry and exit of businesspersons, residents, and visitors in the UAE. The ICP Smart Services organises everything required for your Emirates ID, passport services, citizenship, visa issuance, validity, and insurance while travelling through the UAE.

The ICP Smart Services website provides a user-friendly platform for checking visa validity and passport details directly from your computer or smartphone. This online service streamlines the application process, allowing for quicker and more efficient handling of visa-related matters.

The system is accessible through various modes—in person at any one of the Customer Happiness Centres, online, or via the ICP mobile app (search for UAEICP in the app store). It centralises all necessary information, simplifying the management of your immigration and travel documents. Residents in Dubai are advised to visit their nearest ICP office for initial registration, enabling them to fully utilise the array of convenient services offered.

Keep up to date with the latest information on ICP social media platforms.

What Functions Does ICP Smart Services Provide?

There are several functions that the ICP smart services website provides for business individuals, businesses, tourists, and government entities:

For Individuals

• Check Your Applications: Check the status of your applications from any web-enabled device.
• Apply for an ID Card: Apply for a new ID card or order a replacement ID card.
• Passport Services: Apply for new passports, renew passports, and replace lost or damaged passports.
• Emirates ID Services: Update your Emirates ID or check your Emirates ID status.
• Visa Services: Apply for, renew, extend or cancel visas directly through the portal.
• Entry Permits: Apply for, amend, extend or cancel an entry permit.
• Identity Verification: Users can verify their identities online using their UAE ID, which is essential for accessing personal services.
• Amend Family Details: You can amend the details of your family (add new members, or subtract due to divorce or death).
• Apply for Exemptions: You can apply for exemptions from delay fees.
• Mabrouk Ma Yak: Obtain essential documents for newborns, including a passport, identity card, birth certificate, and health insurance.

For Businesses

• Company Registration: Register new companies or renew existing company registrations.
• Residency Services: Issue a residency visa or residency permit.
• Employee Visa Services: Manage applications, renewals, and status changes of employee visas, including cancellations.
• Labour and Employee Management: Facilitate labour contracts and manage employee details and records.
• Document Verification: Verify the authenticity of documents submitted by employees or associated with the company.
• Business Licensing: Apply for and renew business licenses and update business information.
• Establishment Cards: Issue, renew, amend, or cancel an establishment card.

For Tourists

• Tourist Visa Applications: Apply for tourist visas, including multiple-entry and long-term options (up to 5 years).
• Travel Records: Tourists can check their entry and exit dates and manage related travel documentation.
• Visa Extensions: Extend tourist visas without the need to leave the country.

For Government Entities

• Inter-Departmental Services: Facilitates seamless sharing of information and processing of public data between different government departments.
• Statistics and Reporting: Access detailed reports and statistics on immigration, residency, and visa issues for policy-making and governance.
• Regulatory and Compliance Management: Manage and enforce compliance with local immigration laws and regulations.

General Services

• Financial Transactions: View fines and fee payments related to various government services, file appeals online, apply for exemption from late fines and request refunds.
• Application Management: Make changes to applications online and reschedule cancelled appointments.
• File Management: Access and manage personal files related to immigration and residency.
• Public Queries and Support: This department provides a help desk and support system for queries related to any of the services offered.
• Feedback and Suggestions: Users can submit feedback or suggestions to improve the services provided on the portal.
• Educational Content: Access educational materials and guidelines on utilising the services effectively.
• Receive Emergency Alerts: The ICP Smart Services in the UAE provides alerts for emergencies as part of its broader service offerings. This includes notifying residents about public safety issues, changes in security levels, or other urgent matters that may affect them.

Customer Service

• Live Chat: There is an online live chat service for customer support. You can find ‘Ask Hamad’, the ICP’s virtual assistant on the bottom right-hand corner of your screen. You can chat with Hamad in either English or Arabic.

Who Has To Register for ICP Smart Services?

You need to register with the UAE ICP Smart Services in several scenarios:

1. As a New Resident: If you are moving to the UAE and need to apply for a residency visa or identity card.
2. For Visa Renewal or Changes: Existing residents who need to renew their visa, change visa status, or update personal information.
3. For Passport Services: UAE citizens need passport services such as renewals or new passport applications.
4. Businesses and Employers: Business owners or employers who need to manage employee visas or customs-related services.
5. As a Visitor: If you’re visiting the UAE and require an entry permit or need to extend your visa.
6. GCC Nationals: Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council who need residency and ID services while in the UAE, though they may not require a visa.

Registration with the ICP Smart Services ensures you can conveniently access and manage these essential services online.

It is important to note that UAE residents and tourists travelling to the UAE do not have to register on the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) portal before travel. Registration is primarily for accessing and managing various residency, visa, and identity services once in the country.

Special Provisions for People of Determination

• Fingerprint Exemptions: UAE citizens who are people of determination are exempt from fingerprint requirements when applying for passport issuance, renewal, and replacement.
• Fee Waivers: Charges or fees are not applicable to people of determination for any service.
• Sponsorship File Fee Exemption: People of determination are exempt from the financial guarantees required to open a sponsorship file. Additionally, fee recovery services are provided for people of determination.
• Priority Services: Both People of Determination and senior citizens typically receive priority service at service centres, reducing waiting times and improving service accessibility.

The exceptions are assessed on a case-by-case basis, and applicants may need to provide supporting documentation or medical certificates to qualify for an exemption.

How to Register for ICP Smart Services

The registration process is simple; you can register for ICP smart services via their website.

1. Visit the Official ICP Website: Go to the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
2. Create an Account: Look for an option to create a new user account. This typically involves providing basic personal information like your name, email address, and phone number.
3. Verification: After entering your details, you will likely need to verify your account. This is usually done through a verification link sent to your email or a code sent to your mobile phone.
4. Log In: Once your account is verified, log in using your new credentials.
5. Enter Required Information: Fill in any additional required information specific to the services you need. This may include details from your Emirates ID, passport, and other relevant personal, employment, or residency information.
6. Complete the Registration: Follow the prompts to complete your registration. You may need to agree to the terms and conditions or complete additional verification steps.
7. Access Services: After registration, you can access various services offered by the ICP, such as applying for or renewing residency visas or checking application statuses.

Alternative Registration Methods:

• At the Airport: You can also register upon arrival at the airport by providing your Smart Number and nationality at the Smart Services counter.
• By Telephone: Alternatively, register by calling the following number: 800 9090.
• Mobile Application: For convenience, download the UAEICP mobile application from their website. This application allows you to register and access services at any time.

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How to Apply for Visas Through ICP Smart Services

The Golden Visa

If you are looking to work, study and live in the UAE for up to 10 years, you may be eligible for this long-term residency visa. This visa is designed to attract expertise to the UAE, along with foreign investment. The Golden Visa allows you to access top-tier education and healthcare and the potential to sponsor family members for residence visas. As per the ICP website, to obtain this visa, you must be a talented individual, researcher, outstanding student, doctor, specialist, innovator, athlete, entrepreneur, or an investor in the economic and real estate sectors or an emerging company.

There is a questionnaire on their website to check your eligibility. You can also click this link to view our full article on The Golden Visa. 

How to Apply for The Golden Visa

1. Log in to ICP Smart Services: Access the ICP Smart Services website. If you do not already have an account, you will need to register by providing your personal details and completing the verification process (see the guide on how to register for an account above).
2. Navigate to the Golden Residency Section: Once logged in, locate the section dedicated to Golden Visa applications. Click on ‘Public Services’ and then ‘Golden Residency.’
3. Review Eligibility Criteria: Before proceeding with your application, carefully review the eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa to ensure you meet the requirements. This includes specific provisions for investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, researchers in various fields of science and knowledge, and bright students with promising scientific capabilities. You can also click ‘Golden Residency Services’ and then ‘Check Your Eligibility’ to complete the questionnaire.
4. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form with all required information. This will include personal details, current visa status, passport details, and information pertaining to the qualification criteria (such as investment details, employment history, or academic records).
5. Upload Necessary Documents: Attach all required documents. These typically include a copy of your passport, current visa, proof of investment or entrepreneurship, academic qualifications, and other relevant supporting documents. Review your application to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Next, submit the application.
6. Pay Application Fees: After submitting your application, you will be directed to the payment page. Pay the specified application fee to process your Golden Visa application.
7. Wait for Approval: After submission, your application will be reviewed by the relevant authorities. You may track the status of your application through the ICP Smart Services website.
8. Attend an Interview or Further Verification (if required): Some applicants may be called for an interview or asked to provide additional information or documentation.
9. Receive Your Golden Visa: Once your application is approved, you will be notified, and your Golden Visa will be issued. You may need to complete further steps, such as biometric data submission or a medical test, depending on the specific requirements at the time of application.

Golden Visa Fees

The application fees are as follows:

Request Fee: 100 AED
Issue Fee: 100 AED
E-service Fee: 28 AED
ICP Fee: 22 AED
Smart Service Fee: 100 AED

The registration fee for a Golden Visa is between 2800 and 4800 AED.

Other Visas

There are many visas available for businesspeople and entrepreneurs. To see the full list of options on the ICP smart services website, click here.

How To Track Your Visa Status/Application

You can track the progress of your application in a few different ways:

Check on the ICP Smart Services Website

To check your visa status through ICP Smart Services, visit the ICP website and navigate to the “Visa Status” section. You will need to provide your application number and relevant details, such as your passport number or Emirates ID. Once the information is entered, click the “Search” or “Check Status” button to view your visa’s current status. The system will display whether your application is under review, approved, or if further action is required. Notifications about status updates may also be sent to your registered email or phone number.

Contact the ICP Call Centre

Phoning the ICP is another easy way to track your application. Operators are waiting to hear from you and are available 24 hours a day. The phone number is 600522222. 

Use Your Mobile Application

Perhaps the most convenient way to check your application progress is to log into your mobile application. You can use the mobile app at any time of the day. Click here for more on the ICP mobile application.

Visit a Customer Happiness Centre

The UAE hosts numerous Customer Happiness Centers, which are strategically located across various emirates including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain. These centres are part of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security’s effort to provide efficient and accessible services for passport and citizenship services, residence and visa services, and more. To find the nearest Customer Happiness Centre to you, click here.

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We Make Your Transition to Dubai Easier

ICP Smart Services simplifies essential processes for UAE residents, businesspeople, and tourists by centralising identity management, immigration, and visa services. The platform ensures a seamless experience, allowing users to manage tasks such as visa applications, Emirates ID issuance, and residency matters online or through the mobile app.

With features catering to individuals, businesses, and government entities, the system streamlines procedures for various needs, making it a valuable tool for navigating life in the UAE. Staying updated through ICP’s resources helps ensure a smooth and efficient service experience.

If you’re planning a move to Dubai for business, we’re here to help make the transition easier. We can help you find the best area to start your business, help you apply for visas, and assist with all the required paperwork.

Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our company formation specialists.

FAQ’s

What Documents are Required to Issue a Passport for a UAE Citizen?

When applying via electronic smart channels, you will need a new personal photo with the following specifications:

• A plain white background
• Clear visibility of the face
• Glasses are not permitted
• The face must be facing forward
• No alterations or editing allowed

At the service centres, you will need:

• Your expired passport
• A new personal photo adhering to the above criteria

How Do I Renew My Visa with Smart Services?

If your Visa is expiring soon, you can renew it online. You can log in to your ICP Smart Services account and restore your visa online. Complete the renewal process by adding your passport, Visa and residence card.

How Do I Apply for a Visa Extension?

You can extend your Visa at the ICP services counter at the airport or through the call centre. You can apply for an extension of stay in the UAE even if you don’t have a credit card or an internet connection. If you enter the country through Dubai Airport, you can extend your visa at the Dubai Airport Customs Department.

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