When you’re in the UAE, your Emirates ID and visa status are like your life lines – mess around with them and you’ll end up in a seriously tough spot. And I even mean little mistakes like missing deadlines, giving wrong info, or using the system incorrectly can lead to hefty fines of up to AED 20,000. But don’t worry you don’t have to navigate your way around these mistakes by yourself. Here is your compressive guide to mistakes you should not make, how much it would cost you to make them, and how to avoid penalties altogether.

Also read: These 48 Mistakes On Dubai Public Transport Can Lead To Huge Fines

1. Missed Renewal? That’s AED 20 a Day

If you forget to renew your Emirates ID within 30 days of its expiry date, you’ll start racking up a fine of AED 20 every day. The penalty continues to build until it hits the maximum limit of AED 1,000. So, setting a reminder could actually save you a thousand dirhams!

2. Lost Or Damaged Emirates ID? There’s A Fee For That Too

Losing your Emirates ID or finding it damaged means you’ll need to apply for a replacement – and it isn’t free:

• Replacement fee: AED 300
• Application via typing centre: AED 70
• Online application (eForm): AED 40
• Want it fast? Add AED 150 for express service at ICA’s main Customer Happiness Centres

These charges apply to everyone – whether you’re a local, a GCC national, or an expat.

3. Six Common Residency Mistakes That Will Cost You AED 500 Each

The ICP has listed 6 violations related to residency or foreign affairs services, each with a flat fine of AED 500. These include:

• Not following a written commitment submitted to the ICP
• Submitting transactions for individuals not linked to your company
• Entering unrelated data through e-Dirham
• Letting the company representative’s card expire
• Not carrying your card when handling official transactions
• Breaking the rules at service centres

Make sure you or your company’s rep are always following the rules when dealing with residency matters.

4. Bigger Mistakes? Bigger Fines Of AED 5,000 Each

Some actions are seen as more serious and they come with a steeper AED 5,000 fine:

• Misusing the ICP system
• Interrupting or refusing to cooperate with ICP staff
• Not paying the correct service fees

5. ‘Minor’ Errors Can Be Costly Too

Even small slip-ups can come with a price tag:

• If there’s a mistake in a system printing request, you’ll pay AED 100
• If you submit incorrect or false data, you’ll be fined AED 3,000

Always double-check the information you’re submitting to avoid unnecessary penalties.

6. The Worst Offence: AED 20,000 Fine

Thinking of using a non-existent company to issue a visa or entry permit? Don’t. If you apply on behalf of a business that doesn’t actually exist or has no operations, you could be fined a jaw-dropping AED 20,000! Always ensure your company is legitimate and active before handling immigration paperwork.

How To Apply For A Fine Waiver

Good news – not all late fees are set in stone. The ICP offers exemptions for certain situations. If you fall into one of these categories, you might not have to pay at all:

• You were outside the UAE for more than three months, and your Emirates ID expired during that time
• You were deported by a legal or official order, or your passport is held due to ongoing legal issues
• You were recently granted UAE citizenship and hadn’t received your Emirates ID yet
• You have a medical condition or disability, proven by a valid medical report
• You’re part of a diplomatic mission or under the care of one
• You’re 70 years old or older and can’t visit a centre, all you’ll need is official age proof
• You’re receiving social assistance, and the Ministry of Social Affairs confirms it
• There was a technical error in the system that caused a delay

If any of these apply to you, you can request a penalty exemption. Just make sure you have the official documents to support your case.

Final Tip: Stay Ahead & Stay Informed

Emirates ID and visa rules might seem strict, but knowing what to avoid can save you a lot of stress and big time cash! Whether you’re renewing your ID, updating your information, or applying for services, always do it on time, double-check the details, and follow the proper channels. And if we’re not gatekeeping this information, neither should you – if you got friends/family in the UAE, be sure to share this with them and potential save someone from a whopping AED 20,000 fine!