In the UAE, the unified identity number (UID) is a unique 9-15 digit number issued to every visitor or resident for immigration and residency purposes. This number is assigned by two main administrative authorities: the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affair (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP). The UID number serves as a permanent reference or a lifetime identification of that individual regardless of the change in employment status or visa status.
Is UID Number Same as Emirates ID?
UID is not the same as Emirates ID. Both of these numbers are two distinct markers that serve different purposes. The federal authorities issue Emirates ID, and it serves as an identity card essential for everyone who enters the UAE to assess all government services. UID is issued at the time of visa processing, and it serves as a backbone for all residency and immigration processes.
Significance Of UID Number
Getting a UID number is necessary for visitors or residents equally, as it plays a very important role in many sectors.
- Getting a unified number makes it difficult to commit identity fraud and crime. It enhances the individual security in the UAE.
- It keeps a record of your travel history and residency proofs by linking everything to this number, making your identification easier and avoiding duplication or confusion.
- The centralized database system helps the government maintain security and identify any suspicious activity of an individual.
- Enhanced data accuracy helps deliver services to targeted individuals or businesses.
- The UID number helps you by minimizing the hassle of government-related processes, whether it is a visa application process, residency permits, licenses, or healthcare. The unified number makes sure that all the processes are done effortlessly without bureaucratic delays.
- The UID is equally important in the residential and business sectors. The unique 9-digit identity number serves as a foundation for all residency and immigration-related transactions or issues.
Check UID Number on Your Visa
The UID number is key information that is essential for your residency and other services in UAE. It helps identify you in various administrative processes. To find your unified identity number (UID) on your residence visa, check it on the top right portion of your visa document; UID is clearly mentioned over there. You can also find it on the stamp if your residence visa is stamped.
How To Check UID Number Online?
You can easily check your UID number online by following these steps:
- Visit the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website https://icp.gov.ae/services/
- Check the E-services in the menu.
- You will find a UID inquiry section in the E-services section. Go to that inquiry section.
- Enter all the details required there.
- Submit your application to find out the number.
Process Of Getting UID
When you get a visa in UAE, whether it’s a resident visa or an employment visa sponsored by an employer, it automatically assigns you a unified number. Even if you are a visitor in Dubai, you will be assigned a temporary UID number. Make sure that the experts handle your visa and entry process to avoid any issues with the issuance of UID.
If you have not received your UID number and cannot find it online, you can seek help from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
- You can inquire through the online portal
- You can contact them via phone call on the numbers available on the website for national or international queries.
The process of getting a UID may take 1 to 2 weeks. It is necessary to get your unified number as soon as possible; it will make things much easier for you.
Required Documents
The necessary documents required to get the unified number include:
- Your passport
- Visa details
- Residence proof, like your bills and rents
- Identity proof like a National ID or driving license
Merging Multiple UID Numbers
If someone is issued more than one identity number, it can cause complications in the person’s identity, and it can lead to errors in immigration records. That person will have to face challenges when entering or exiting the country, applying for visas or permits, and getting other services. To avoid this kind of situation, you are advised to merge your UID numbers.
You can merge your UID numbers by providing these documents at the immigration office in the UAE.
- Copy of your passport, including the signature page.
- Copy of your current visa. If you have any previous visas, bring them along with you.
- If there is any canceled visa, bring the cancellation papers for that visa.
- All the UID numbers assigned to you that require merging.
Conclusion
UID number is a unique code issued by the government authorities of UAE at the time of visa processing to every individual entering or residing in the country. It helps the government maintain a centralized database of the person, ensuring all the records of residency, entry or exit, and visa history. This number is not the same as Emirates ID, yet it is crucial for immigration and residency records and streamlines different government-related facilities and services. If you are not assigned any UID or have more than one UID number due to the system error, make sure you get one or merge multiple numbers assigned to you.
If you have any issues related to your UID number or processing your visa in UAE, you can contact Al Riyady for further guidance and get consultancy from our experienced team. We can help you make your journey in UAE easier, whether it is about visas, residency, or starting your brand-new business.
