The UAE government has streamlined and digitized many of its services, like other leading economies. One of its most popular platforms is ICP Smart services which is mainly used by the visitors, residents and investors. The reason behind the significance of this online system is that it is used for visa, Emirates ID and many other residency services.
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Previous Name |
Current Name |
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ICA: Identity and Citizenship Authority |
ICP: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security |
In this guide, we will explain everything about ICP services (former ICA); how you can use it through the app or portal.
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 and for What?
As mentioned above, this platform provides all major services which an individual or a company might need. So, this table explains about the users:
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User group |
Use of ICP |
|---|---|
|
UAE citizens |
Passport renewal, Emirates ID, some family sponsorship |
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Expat residents |
Residence visa and renewal, Emirates ID, checking application status |
|
Visitors |
Online visas and some visit extensions |
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GCC nationals |
Emirates ID and residency services, based on their status |
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Companies / employers |
Establishment cards, staff visas, renewals, cancellations |
The Services You Can Access
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. 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. If you want to understand How to Get UAE Residency Through Business in Dubai, our dedicated consultant can explain it in a free consultation.
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.
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. Also, they can cancel them when any employee leaves. You can outsource this task, 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.
Option to Pay ICP Fees in Instalments
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 (AED 500 or more) in monthly instalments instead of one big amount. Repayment runs from three to twelve months, with zero interest, and is handled through participating banks and Visa.
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.
How ICP Smart Services Bring Convenience
The digital, unified services platform is one of the major initiatives of the UAE government 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.
Getting Started: Step-by-Step Overview
- 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 way: 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.
How Momentum Will Simplify the Services
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. Our PRO team will handle the ICP work. We 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.
Start Strong, Grow Fast with Momentum!
