How to change the photo in your Emirates ID
Is the photo on your Emirates ID card different from how you look now? Do you face problems because people cannot recognise you from your ID photograph? If yes, you must update the personal photo on your Emirates ID. In this guide, we run you through the entire Emirates ID photo change process, from application submission to required documents.
HOW CAN YOU GET AN EMIRATES ID PHOTO CHANGE
Updating the photo on your UAE identity card is simple once you know the correct steps. You can apply for modification of your ID card photo at any stage during its validity or the update process.
To change the photo in your existing Emirates ID, follow the process outlined below:
- Visit one of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) customer happiness centres with your original passport and Emirates ID card.
- Ensure you have your replacement photo available. It should be a passport photo with a white background.
- Please fill out the information-changing application and submit it with the required documents.
- The application fee for Emirates ID modification must be paid. The charge is AED 150 (inclusive of AED 40 service fees).
- Confirm biometrics (photo, fingerprints etc).
- After application submission (usually within 48 hours), you will receive an SMS letting you know your amended Emirates ID is ready for collection.
- You can collect your new ID card from the post office specified in the SMS.
EMIRATES ID PHOTO REQUIREMENTS
Here are the latest Emirates ID photo requirements set by ICP.
- The Emirates ID card photo should be high quality, coloured and not older than six months.
- The Emirates ID photo background colour must be white.
- Your Emirates ID card photo features must be natural and shouldn’t look exaggerated.
- The head position required for the photograph is straight and parallel to the photographic lens.
- Keep your eyes open and look towards the camera lens (Remember that wearing coloured lenses is prohibited).
- Glasses are permissible if they do not block vision or reflect light.
- The dress should ideally be similar to the holder’s passport photo. According to national dress or religious beliefs, head covering is permitted.
- The resolution should be at least 600 dpi with no ink traces or shrinkage.
FAQS
CAN AN EMIRATES ID PHOTO BE UPDATED ONLINE?
No, modifications to existing Emirate ID photographs cannot be made online.
WHAT IS THE ACCEPTABLE PHOTO SIZE FOR EMIRATES ID?
The photo must be 3.5 cm in width and 4.5 cm in height.
CAN I SMILE FOR MY EMIRATES ID PHOTO?
Ideally, you shouldn’t smile or frown or make any exaggerated expressions in your ID photo. Keep your face as neutral as possible.
CAN YOU CHANGE YOUR EMIRATES ID PHOTO ANY TIME?
Yes, you can. However, choose the correct photo for Emirates ID that meets all ICP guidelines.
WHY SHOULD I HAVE A CORRECT PHOTO FOR EMIRATES ID?
Your ID card photo should represent your current appearance as closely as possible. If your photograph is outdated or significantly different from your current appearance, it may cause confusion or difficulty in recognising you. An accurate photo ensures consistency and facilitates smoother interactions when using an Emirates ID card for various purposes.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I LOSE MY ID CARD?
If you lose your Emirates ID, you should report it to ICP at the earliest. Please contact the UAE Embassy immediately if your card gets lost in a foreign country.
And that concludes our guide to Emirates ID photo change. Like updating the photograph, changing the mobile number linked to your Emirates ID is pretty straightforward. You can do it online through ICA’s online Smart Services.
Waiting to receive your Emirates ID card? You can potentially use an Emirates ID e-copy in the meantime.
