Many UAE residents face confusion when they check their Emirates ID application status and see “waiting for residency”. This message can be stressful, especially if you need your Emirates ID for work, banking, or daily life.
If you are searching for information about the emirates id waiting for residency issue, this article will explain everything in simple English. You will learn why this happens, how long it usually takes, and what you can do to fix the problem.
What Does “Waiting for Residency” Mean?
When your Emirates status shows waiting for residency, it means your Emirates application is approved, but your residence visa process is not fully completed yet.
The Emirates and residency visa are connected systems. Your Emirates ID cannot be printed or issued until your residence visa is approved and stamped (or updated digitally).
Why Emirates ID Is Linked to Residency Visa
In the UAE, Emirates ID is issued only to people with valid residency status. Authorities first confirm:
- Medical fitness results
- Residence visa approval
- Immigration records
Once all these steps are completed, the Emirates ID process moves forward.
Common Causes of Emirates ID Waiting for Residency Issue
There are several reasons why this issue may occur:
Medical Test Results Pending
If your medical fitness test results are not updated in the system, your residency approval will be delayed.
Residence Visa Not Stamped Yet
Your employer or sponsor may not have completed the visa stamping process.
Immigration Approval Delay
Sometimes immigration approval takes longer due to background checks or system backlog.
Employer or Sponsor Delay
Your company PRO or sponsor may not have submitted all required documents on time.
System Update Delay
Even after visa approval, system updates between immigration and Emirates can take time.
Estimated Processing Time
Here is a general idea of how long each stage may take:
| Process Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Medical Test Result | 1–3 working days |
| Residency Visa Approval | 3–7 working days |
| System Update | 1–2 working days |
| Emirates ID Printing | 2–5 working days |
Delays can happen during busy periods or public holidays.
How to Fix Emirates ID Waiting for Residency Issue
If your Emirates is stuck, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Residency Visa Status
Confirm with your sponsor or employer whether your residence visa is approved.
Step 2: Confirm Medical Fitness Approval
Ensure your medical test result shows fit in the system.
Step 3: Contact Your PRO or Sponsor
Your company PRO handles visa and ID processing. Ask them for an update.
Step 4: Visit ICP or Typing Center
You can visit an ICP service center or authorized typing center for status verification.
Step 5: Call ICP Customer Support
ICP customer service can check if there is any document missing or system issue.
Can You Work Without Emirates ID?
Yes, you can usually work after residency approval, even if Emirates is still processing. However, some services may be limited:
- Bank account opening may be delayed
- SIM card registration may be restricted
- Some government services require Emirates ID
Employers usually allow work during this waiting period.
Is This Issue Common in the UAE?
Yes, the emirates id waiting for residency issue is very common, especially for:
- New employees
- First-time UAE residents
- Company visa holders
Most cases are resolved automatically once residency is updated.
Things You Should NOT Do
- Do not panic or apply again
- Do not pay agents claiming “fast approval”
- Do not submit duplicate applications
Multiple applications can cause further delays.
Emirates ID Waiting for Residency – Details Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue Name | Emirates ID waiting for residency issue |
| Meaning | Emirates ID cannot be issued because residency visa approval is pending or not updated |
| Who Faces This Issue | New UAE residents, employees on company visa, first-time Emirates ID applicants |
| Main Causes | Medical test pending, visa stamping delay, sponsor document delay, system update delay |
| Medical Test Impact | Emirates ID process stops until medical fitness result is approved |
| Residency Visa Status | Must be approved before Emirates ID can be printed |
| Average Waiting Time | 3 to 10 working days (can be longer in peak periods) |
| Responsible Authority | ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) |
| Who Should Follow Up | Employer, sponsor, or company PRO |
| Can You Work During Delay | Yes, if residency visa is approved |
| Services Affected | Bank account, SIM registration, some government services |
| Tracking Method | Application number or passport number |
| How to Resolve | Confirm medical result, check visa status, contact sponsor or ICP |
| Risk Level | Low (common and temporary issue) |
| Final Outcome | Emirates ID issued after residency approval is updated |
How Long Before Emirates ID Is Issued After Residency?
Once residency is approved, Emirates is usually issued within:
- 3 to 7 working days
You will receive an SMS when your is printed and dispatched.
How to Track Emirates ID Status
You can track your status using:
- Application number
- Passport number
Check status regularly but avoid checking multiple times a day.
Important Tips for Faster Processing
- Submit clear documents
- Attend medical test on time
- Follow up with sponsor politely
- Keep your phone active for SMS updates
Small mistakes can delay the process.
When to Worry About the Delay
You should follow up if:
- Status remains unchanged for more than 10 working days
- Medical result is approved but residency not updated
- Employer confirms documents are complete
In such cases, visiting ICP is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does Emirates ID waiting for residency mean?
It means your residence visa approval is still pending or not updated in the system.
Is this a serious problem?
No, it is a common delay and usually resolves automatically.
How long does this issue last?
It can last from a few days up to one or two weeks.
Can I work while waiting for Emirates ID?
Yes, if your residency is approved, you can usually work.
Does medical test affect Emirates ID?
Yes, Emirates cannot proceed without medical fitness approval.
Who should I contact first?
Your employer or sponsor should be your first contact.
Can I speed up the process?
You can only ensure documents are complete; there is no official fast-track.
Should I apply again?
No, reapplying can cause more delays.
Will I get an SMS update?
Yes, you will receive an SMS once Emirates is printed.
Is this issue common for new residents?
Yes, it is very common for first-time UAE residents.
Final Advice for UAE Residents
The Emirates ID process depends heavily on residency approval. Most delays are temporary and resolve on their own. Staying informed and communicating with your sponsor is the best approach.
more :- Emirates ID Stuck on Waiting for Residency? How to Fix