What is ICP?
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), formerly known as ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship), is the UAE federal government body responsible for national identity, citizenship, residency, entry and border control, and customs and port security. It maintains the national population register and issues the Emirates ID to every UAE resident.
ICP rebranded from ICA in 2021 following a merger with the Federal Customs Authority and related border functions. Despite the name change, most residents still encounter it through the ICA UAE mobile app and the icp.gov.ae portal. All Emirates IDs, visas, and records previously issued under ICA remain valid under ICP.
What ICP handles
- Emirates ID issuance and renewal for all UAE residents
- Entry permit applications and approvals for most emirates (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain)
- Residence visa issuance, renewal, and cancellation for non-Dubai sponsored visas
- Family sponsorship approvals outside Dubai
- Visa and Emirates ID status checks
- Citizenship and naturalisation affairs
- Border and port security oversight
Residents whose visa is sponsored within the Emirate of Dubai deal with the GDRFA for residency matters, not ICP. The dividing line is which emirate sponsors your visa, not where you live day to day.
How to use ICP services
Most ICP transactions can be started online through the ICP Smart Services portal at icp.gov.ae or the ICA UAE mobile app (available on iOS and Android). Common steps for a residence visa renewal in a non-Dubai emirate include:
- Log in to the ICP Smart Services portal or ICA UAE app with your UAE Pass or registered credentials.
- Select the relevant service such as visa renewal, Emirates ID renewal, or family entry permit.
- Upload the required documents, which typically include a valid passport, current visa details, and supporting paperwork that varies by visa category.
- Pay the applicable government fees online. Always confirm current fee amounts on the official portal before applying, as they change.
- Schedule a biometric or medical appointment if required for your visa type.
- Track your application status through the portal or app and collect your Emirates ID or visa stamp once approved.
For complex cases or assisted applications, authorised typing centres and service providers can complete submissions on your behalf.
What expats use ICP for
Expatriates in the UAE interact with ICP mainly for three purposes: renewing their residence visa and Emirates ID, sponsoring family members on their visa, and checking their visa or entry status. ICP is also the authority behind Golden Visa applications processed at the federal level, and it approves entry permits for visitors and new employees arriving to non-Dubai emirates.
If you are unsure whether ICP or GDRFA applies to your situation, check which emirate your sponsor (employer or family member) is licensed or registered in. Fees, processing times, and required documents vary by visa category and are updated regularly, so confirm current requirements on the official ICP portal before starting any application.