Updated November 27, 2023
ICP Smart Services is an online system that allows you to register your arrival and departure information while applying for your Emirates ID and 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, ICP Smart Services can help make the transition smooth and successful.
What is ICP Smart Services?
The ICP Smart Services (previously known as ICA Smart Services) is a unique system that facilitates the entry and exit of UAE businesspersons, residents and visitors. 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, online, or via a dedicated mobile app. It centralizes 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 utilize the array of convenient services offered.
Keep up to date with the latest information on ICP social media platforms.
Source: ICP smart services website
What Functions Does ICP Smart Services Provide?
There are several functions that the ICP smart services website provides for business owners and travellers:
- Log in with your Smart Number to check the status of your applications from any web-enabled device, such as your mobile, tablet or laptop.
- Make changes to your application online.
- If your appointment for residence entry is cancelled, you can reschedule it online.
- Apply for new passports, renew passports, and replace lost or damaged passports.
- Apply for new residency visas, renew them, and change your visa status.
- Apply for and renew business licenses and update business information.
- Manage visa applications, renewals, and status changes for employees of businesses.
- Apply for, renew, and modify entry permits for UAE visitors.
- View the tourist and business visa services online.
- View fines and fee payments related to various government services.
- File an appeal online.
- Request a refund online.
- Update your Emirates ID or check your Emirates ID status.
Who Has To Register for ICP Smart Services?
You need to register with the UAE ICP Smart Services in several scenarios:
- As a New Resident: If you are moving to the UAE and need to apply for a residency visa or identity card.
- For Visa Renewal or Changes: Existing residents who need to renew their visa, change visa status, or update personal information.
- For Passport Services: UAE citizens needing passport services, such as renewals or applying for new passports.
- Businesses and Employers: Business owners or employers who need to manage employee visas or customs-related services.
- As a Visitor: If you’re visiting the UAE and require an entry permit or need to extend your visa.
- GCC Nationals: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries for services applicable to them while in the UAE.
Registration with the ICP Smart Services ensures that you can conveniently access and manage these essential services online.
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 prior to travel.
How to Register for ICP Smart Services
The registration process is simple; you can register for ICP smart services via their website.
- Visit the Official ICP Website: Go to the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
- 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.
- 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.
- Log In: Once your account is verified, log in using your new credentials.
- Enter Required Information: Fill in any additional required information specific to the services you need. This could include your Emirates ID, passport details, and other relevant personal, work, or residency information. More information on a UAE residence visa and Emirates ID can be found here.
- 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.
- Access Services: After registration, you can access various services offered by the ICP, such as applying for or renewing residency visas, checking the status of applications, and more.
Alternatively, you can register at the airport by entering your Smart Number and nationality at the Smart Services counter.
You can also register by calling the following phone number: 800 9090.
You can also use the mobile application. Download the mobile application, from their website so you can register at any time.
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.
To check your eligibility, there is a questionnaire on their website for you to complete. You can also click on this link to view our full article on The Golden Visa.
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.
Source: ICP smart services website
How Much Is The Registration Fee?
To registration fee for a Golden Visa is between 2800 and 4800 AED.
The registration fee for this service is AED150, which is processed after your arrival in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. You can make this payment online or at the ICP office.
How To Track Your Application
You can track the progress of your application in a few different ways:
Use Your Online Account
Tracking your application is as easy as logging onto your online user account. Here, you can track up to five visa applications. As soon as you arrive in the UAE, you should receive an email with your tracking number to be able to log in. The email will contain your ICP registration number and a link to your online tracking account. Remember that the email arrives sometime after your arrival in the UAE.
Contact the ICA 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. Use the mobile app any time of the day, whenever you need. Click here for more on the ICP mobile application.
How to Use ICP Smart Services
After receiving your tracking number, you can start making appointments with the immigration and labour authorities. You can directly schedule appointments by selecting the date and time you want to visit the office.
You can also request an appointment to meet with an officer at the Dubai Land Department. The officer will give you an appointment confirmation, which you can use to change your visa and residence entry process. You can also use this confirmation printout to apply for a UAE residence visa.
The Dubai Land Department will give you a service fee and a payment receipt. If you don’t meet the Visa or residence entry deadlines, you might have to pay additional fees. The UAE could also prevent you from entering the country, or you may be deported.
Aside from tracking your application online, you can also contact the call center, to obtain any relevant updates.
What To Do Before You Arrive in Dubai
Due to the new rules and regulations for a UAE residence Visa, you might have to use ICP Services. If you’re travelling to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the UAE for business or as a tourist, you can still use ICP services to start your temporary residency.
Before you arrive in the UAE, you must schedule an appointment with the ICA service centre. Making an appointment can be done online from your account. Follow the prompts to ‘schedule an appointment’, choose your date and confirm your booking.
Alternatively, visit the ICP website and click Contact Us. You can also make a direct call from your UAE number by calling 800 9090 or from outside the UAE by calling +971 4 227 7000.
Safe Travel Requirements Due to Covid 19
From February 2022, anyone entering Dubai must fulfil certain travel requirements. This includes any travel to places such as Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah and the entire Emirates region. If you’re wondering about the need for a PCR test and whether this affects entry permits or visa details, there are a few things to consider.
A valid vaccine certificate reflecting a passenger’s vaccination status is among the necessary requirements. A negative covid 19 PCR test within 48 hours of travel or a valid medical certificate stating the passenger’s recovery from coronavirus must be presented.
Check with your airline and official authorities for more information about travelling safely. ICP Services can also assist with more information.
Get To Know The Federal Authority for Identity
ICP services is part of The Federal Authority for Identity; a government body that looks after all matters involving citizenship, customs and port security. The Federal Authority for Identity website has a range of helpful services and information for both citizens and foreigners.
This organisation helps with passport services, an ID card and visa status. Anyone travelling to and from the UAE must have an Emirates ID as part of standard identification. Learn more about the importance of keeping your Emirates ID up-to-date. All the information you need is also readily available on your mobile application for easy access.
How to Check Your Visa Status
Obtaining an entry visa is a vital part of travelling to the UAE. You can check your visa status in a number of ways:
- Online prior to your arrival
- By calling the call centre
- At the airport counter
Check your visa status for yourself, any dependents or employees. You can check the status of each entry visa for up to five passengers per visit. If you have booked a hotel through this ICP, and already have an invitation letter, you don’t have to recheck the status of your entry.
Upon your arrival at Dubai Airport, the Dubai Airport Customs Department will conduct the entry process with you. When you enter Dubai using ICP, you visit the ICA services counter before Customs. You will give your passport to a staff member, who will check the status of your entry.
How to 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.
How to Apply for a Change of Status
Up to two (2) changes to your application are permitted. If you require any more changes to your application, further fees and charges will apply.
If you are an existing ICP Smart Services user, you can apply to change your status using the online system. To get set up, call the ICP Services call centre or go online to create an account.
How to Apply for an Exit Permit
You can request your exit permit when you are at the Smart Services counter. You will need to show your passport, the Visa of your dependent and your residence card. Your exit permit will be extended, and you’ll receive a new entry card.
How to Renew Your 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 to Cancel Your Visa with Smart Services
To cancel your Visa, simply login to your ICP Services account and follow the steps to cancel your Visa.
We Make Your Transition to Dubai Easier
In summary, 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.
Because you’ll be set up for success from day one, your business will be off to a great start. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our company formation specialists. For more information on establishing your business and how to succeed as an entrepreneur, head to our social media sites on Facebook and Instagram.
