ICP Smart Services is your go-to digital platform if you are going to be UAE resident or an investor sooner or later. It is the main online system for visas, Emirates ID and many residency services.
Older articles still talk about ‘ICA Smart Services’. That was the previous name used by the former Identity and Citizenship Authority. Today, the platform is officially called ICP Smart Services and is operated by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
This guide explains, in simple language, what the system does, who uses it, and how it makes everyday life easier in the UAE.
What Are ICP Smart Services in UAE?
In simple words, ICP Smart Services is a federal counter which works online. Instead of standing in line at different offices, you open a website or an app and deal with most identity and residency work there.
Through the ICP portal and the UAEICP mobile app, locals, residents and visitors can apply for visas and residencies, manage Emirates ID applications, pay fines and even renew UAE passports for citizens.
The same system is also used by companies for staff visas and establishment records. So, even if you never log in yourself, your employer, PRO or business setup consultant is probably working inside ICP on your behalf.
You can reach it in two main ways whether through the web portal or the UAEICP app. Both options provide you with the same services.
Who Needs to Use ICP?
Almost everyone linked to the UAE uses ICP at some point.
User group | Use of ICP |
|---|---|
UAE citizens | Passport renewal, Emirates ID, some family sponsorship |
Expat residents | Residence visa and renewal, Emirates ID, checking application status |
Visitors | Online visas and some visit extensions |
GCC nationals | Emirates ID and residency services, based on their status |
Companies / employers | Establishment cards, staff visas, renewals, cancellations |
So, a tourist might only see it once for a visa, but a company representative may log in every day to manage dozens of staff files.
What Can You Actually Do on ICP?
There are many services, but they mostly fall into a few main categories.
Visas and Residency
ICP handles the digital side of residence permits. Sponsors such as employers, investors or family members submit applications for new residence visas and renewals through the portal. In many cases, the residence permit is linked directly to an Emirates ID application, and the approval is stored electronically rather than stamped inside the passport.
Visitors can also use ICP-linked services to apply for certain entry permits or extend their stay. There are different rules for different nationalities and visa categories.
Emirates ID
The Emirates ID is the national identity card for UAE citizens and residents and is legally required. You need it for banking, telecom, utilities, many government services and often at airport smart gates.
Through ICP, people can apply for a new card, renew an expiring one, or request a replacement if it is lost or damaged. The portal also offers a simple way to check card status using an application number (PRAN) or Emirates ID number.
Passport Services for UAE Nationals
UAE citizens can use the system to renew passports or request replacements whether they are inside or outside the country. This is especially helpful for families living abroad who need to renew documents without travelling back just for paperwork.
Company and Employer Services
For companies, ICP is the main hub for anything related to sponsored staff. They use it to keep the establishment card valid, issue and renew employee visas and cancel them when someone leaves. Many businesses leave this to a PRO or a business setup consultant, because if there is any mistake, processes might be delayed. Also, if any wrong information is provided, fines can also be incurred.
Fines and Payments
The portal and app show fines linked to visas and Emirates IDs and allow people to pay online without any issues. The process to pay fines is streamlined: you log in, check your profile or the fine enquiry service, and pay by card.
New in 2025: Paying ICP Fees in Installments
A new feature that many families and small businesses appreciate is the 0% instalment plan on ICP service fees.
In 2025, ICP and several UAE banks launched an initiative so residents can pay qualifying ICP fees (usually AED 500 or more) in monthly installments instead of one big amount. Repayment typically runs from three to twelve months, with zero interest, and is handled through participating banks and Visa.
The important point: you still pay your fee through the normal ICP channels, but then you contact your bank and convert the amount into an installment plan if your card and bank are part of the scheme.
Which is Better to Use: Portal or App?
Both platforms are part of the same system, and you can use the one which you can access more conveniently. Many users prefer the portal for visa applications because it takes more time. The UAEICP app is used for quick checks, status updates, and uploading a photo from the phone gallery.
The app is also easily accessible through UAE Pass. With UAE Pass you sign in without remembering extra usernames and passwords.
Why ICP Smart Services Matter in Daily Life
The UAE government has a clear push toward digital, unified services. ICP Smart Services is one of the major initiatives which is for visas and identity. Here are some of the main benefits of ICP Smart Services:
- You spend less time visiting service centres and more time doing other things.
- You can submit requests during evenings, weekends and holidays, because the system is online 24/7.
- You can follow up each application by its reference number instead of calling different offices.
- You upload soft copies of documents instead of carrying piles of paper.
Authorities have also warned the public to be careful with fake online ads offering instant visas for extra money. These unofficial services are not approved, and people are advised to use ICP portals or licensed typing centres.
So, if you see a social media post asking for your passport copy and card number in a private chat, that is a red flag. You must not provide anything.
Getting Started: A Simple Flow
- Your employer or advisor starts your entry permit and sends you the approval.
- You enter the country or change status, then they submit your residence visa application through ICP.
- At the same time, an Emirates ID application is created. You go for biometrics, if needed.
- Once everything is approved, your residence appears in the system and your Emirates ID card is printed and delivered by courier.
A resident renewing an Emirates ID follows a shorter path: log in, choose renewal, confirm or update details. Then add your documents, make the payment and wait for the new card to arrive.
The steps are the same for companies, just at a larger scale, for each staff member they sponsor.
Do You Still Need a Business Setup Consultant?
ICP is convenient for use, so you can do many tasks yourself. However, the rules around visas and company types can be detailed and change from time to time. That is why many investors and professionals prefer to let a business setup consultant or PRO team handle the ICP work. They are responsible for:
- Keeping up with the latest rules and fee changes
- Applications’ preparation and correct submission
- Following up on any missing documents or clarifications
At Momentum, our dedicated team can handle your ICP requirements on your behalf. You still receive the approvals and cards in your name, but we take care of the steps in between
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