Are you dreaming of coming to Dubai for your studies, business, or spending your vacation? Then you must be aware of certain official documentation that you legally need to obtain, such as an entry permit, a residence visa, an Emirates ID, a tourist visa, business visa, employment visa or other requirements as per your needs.
To get these documents or to pay the fees, etc., earlier you would have been required to visit the immigration authority in person. However, the UAE government has simplified all administrative processes for convenience through an integrated e-platform known as ICA Smart Service UAE. The portal offers residency and immigration related services to individuals, tourists and businesses online.
Let us understand how one can register for ICA smart services, what can be done through the platform, and benefits of it.
ICA smart services in UAE
In the UAE, matters related to identity, citizenship, and residency are overseen by ICP, which stands for the Federal Authority of Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. ICP is responsible for regulating identity cards, citizenship, passport issuance and management, residence visas, and Emirates ID.
It also oversees the entry and residency of foreigners in the UAE, promotes the security of ports, borders and free zones, and manages customs operations.
ICA Smart Service UAE is an online platform offered by ICP, where all services related to identity, citizenship, and residency, whether for citizens, residents, or foreigners, are available at your fingertips. The platform is accessible in multiple languages and can be used via the official website or through the ICP app.
Importance of ICA Smart services
As the world is going digital, technology is being integrated into every aspect of life. Similarly, the UAE, through the introduction of ICP Smart Services, aims to revolutionize immigration and related processes, helping people access these services in a secure, convenient, and fast manner.
First of all, all the services are listed online, allowing users to choose the required one easily. Plus, they can even track various applications online in real time and take necessary steps if needed, reducing the chances of delays.
For various applications, such as a residency visa, the application form needs to be filled out online. You must then upload the required documents digitally, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork. Finally, you can pay the fees through the available portal methods, and with that, your request is successfully submitted to ICP.
In today’s fast-paced life, especially in the UAE, such an online platform is just another step toward making life easier for people and relieving them of the hassle of traditional processes.
Services accessible through ICA platform
Category-wise, different services are available to applicants. You can apply for these services online and get ICA smart service approval for the requested service online as well. Let’s take a look at them.
Business services:
Businesses can apply for issuance, renewal, and amendments of establishment cards, employee visas, and business licenses. They can also access digital attestation services, customs clearance, and more.
Individual services:
Individuals can apply for the issuance, renewal, and replacement of passports, Emirates ID, residency visas and entry permits. The platform also allows users to update personal information such as family details, make fee payments, request refunds, manage fines and more.
Tourist services:
Through ICA Smart Service UAE, tourists can apply for tourist visas, including single and multiple entry visas, check their exit and entry dates, and even extend their tourist visas.
Obtaining ICA smart service registration in UAE
Whether you are a UAE citizen, GCC national, a business, an expat resident or visitor, you can access services through ICP Smart Services. Here is the process for ICA Smart Services registration:
Choose your mode:
Use the ICA website or application for registration.
Select the language:
Set the language for the portal that is suited for you.
Creation of new account:
You can create an account as an individual, establishment or typing center. Choose your preferred entity and fill in the details as may be asked, like phone number, email, and basic information. You will also have to set a password for your account.
Account verification:
You will receive a code on your number or email for account verification. Enter that, and your account will be verified.
Login using credentials:
Enter your username and password and log in. Finish setting up your account by entering some more details like passport details, Emirates ID or as asked.
Choose the service you need:
Navigate to the service you need at the moment and follow the on-screen instructions to submit your application request.
Documents needed for registration
For getting ICA smart service approval for registration, you must keep the following documents ready:
Residents:
Emirates ID card, passport, mobile number, email address, tenancy and utility bill copies (if applicable).
Entrepreneurs:
Registration certificate, business license, mobile number, email address.
Tourists:
Passport, visa, email address, mobile number.
ICP smart service approval for golden visa
Golden visa application has been simplified further through ICA Smart Service UAE. Golden visa allows its holders to live for 10 years in the UAE. It does not depend on any local sponsor. Also, a Golden Visa holder can sponsor family visas for their dependents. Through the ICP online portal, the application for the Golden Visa can be made easily.
First, you must log in to ICP Smart Services. From the menu, you can head over to the Golden Visa service and choose if you are applying through inside or outside UAE. Then there you can apply for the entry permit (if outside UAE) and Golden Visa itself.
You must fill the application form, attach some documents, and pay the necessary fees. Basically, you will get all the on-screen instructions for availing the service, and it’s extremely user-friendly and simple to understand.
Once your application for Golden Visa is submitted, it will be reviewed, and you will have to wait for the approval. Please note that the requirements will vary depending on the category of Golden Visa needed, such as investor in public investment or real estate, entrepreneur, talented professional, etc.
Tracking visa application on ICP smart service
Through ICA Smart Service UAE, the application can be tracked on the go. You can visit the website of ICP and look for the “Visa Status” section. There, you must enter your application number and other relevant information such as passport or Emirates ID details. After entering the details, click the “Search” or “Check Status” button, and then your visa application status will be displayed on the screen.
The application may be under review, approved or may need further action. Also, all the notifications related to status updates are sent to your registered phone number or email.
Wrapping up!
In the UAE, public services have been brought to people through ICA Smart Service UAE. It is one of the digital steps that the government has taken, making an effort to welcome foreigners and simplify living for its residents and expats.
For new users, it is important to create and secure an account through a strong password. Also, while making any application, it is better to carefully review and double-check the information before the final submission.
In case you have any doubts, you can contact ICP’s customer support, and they can guide you through the application or assist you further. You can contact them via phone, email, or find information on the official website.
Besides that, if you are looking for a business visa, or need visa for your staff etc., you can consult Dubiz Business Setup. They are UAE company formation experts and have well experienced PRO team. They can take care of documentation for you and you can start your business in Emirates smoothly. Contact them today!
