The Unified Identification Number (UID) is a unique immigration reference number issued by UAE immigration authorities when an individual’s immigration record is created. A UID is typically generated when a visa or entry permit is issued, forming part of an individual’s immigration record in the UAE. 

The UID remains consistent across an individual’s immigration history, unlike UAE visa numbers, which change each time a new visa is issued. This enables the immigration regimes to associate various visas; entry permits and residency documents with a single identity profile.  Such connectivity assists in achieving uniformity in government services and minimizes the chances of multiple identities or different records.  

What is the process of getting a UID number in the UAE? 

A UID number is generated automatically by UAE immigration systems when a visa or immigration record is created. Individuals do not apply for a UID separately. Here is the process in detail: 

1. Entry into the UAE: When a visa that creates an immigration record is issued, a UID is generated within the UAE immigration system and linked to the individual’s profile. This is a figure that is produced as a part of your immigration file. 

2. Stamping of Visas: Once in the UAE, residents complete medical examinations and apply for an Emirates ID. All residency-related applications are linked to the individual’s UID.  

3. Check Your Visa: When your UAE residence visa is issued and stamped, the UID may appear on visa documentation and is used across official immigration records. 

4. Emirates ID: The UID is internally linked to an individual’s Emirates ID within government systems, but it is not printed on the Emirates ID card. 

It is essential to note that the UID is not something one has to apply to obtain; it is issued automatically. It is determined by your immigration and residence documents. 

What do the numbers on the UID number denote? 

The UID is a system-generated numerical reference used to uniquely identify an individual within UAE immigration databases. It connects visas, emirates ID and the immigration records. The number is just a system generated reference code which only identifies the person in the immigration database in a unique way.

Due to this, UID meaning is an administrative, not a descriptive meaning. It serves as a consistent administrative identifier used to maintain data integrity across immigration and visa systems. 

What is the significance of UID in business operations? 

The UID number is an additional significant support role to employment and compliance procedures to professionals and business owners. Immigration systems use UID records to tie labour approvals to residency permits and issuance of Emirates ID when companies apply to obtain employee visas.  

The mistaking or duplication in the UID data may delay stamping of visa, Emirates ID processing and government service access. Such delays can affect payroll registration, access to banking, healthcare registration and tenancy contracts.  

It is also through proper immigration records that entrepreneurship owners who are establishing firms in the UAE use them to sponsor themselves or employees. UID may also be checked by business support platforms when receiving visa applications when registering companies and hiring staff.  

Regularly keeping the names and other passport-related information spelled identically in all applications facilitates the prevention of the possibility of UID duplication and administrative issues.  

How to find UID number in the UAE?  

If you don't have an UID number, there are several official methods of obtaining the number.  

1. Check entry documentation and visa documents 

The UID number frequently appears on visa pages or entry permits particularly on earlier visa pages. It can be placed close to visa number or sections of personal identification.  

2. Check UID number online using passport details 

The official ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) portal allows individuals to retrieve UID details using passport information. This is among the quickest methods of conducting UID number check on-line. 

3. Verification of Emirates ID documents 

UID is internally connected to Emirates ID databases among residents. UID in your Emirates ID number can be accessed in government service centres should you need them.  

4. Authorised typing centres in contact 

UID number can also be obtained when applications or status updates are being filed at immigration typing centres and visa processing offices.  

UID number vs UAE visa number: What is the difference? 

The ‍‌UID number often is confused with the UAE visa number. The two identifiers serve different purposes. The visa number is used to identify a particular visa which lasts for a given period. A new visa number is generated every time a new visa is issued. 

The UID, on the other hand, remains the same and links all visa records to a single immigration profile. It ensures that the person's immigration history is not disrupted even if there is a change in the type of visa or employers. In other words, the visa numbers are changed, while the UID number stays the ‍same. 

Move to the UAE effortlessly 

If you're relocating to the UAE for work, to sponsor your family, or to start a business, it is important that your visa paperwork matches and connects correctly with your company registration, bank accounts, and residency records. If these systems are not aligned, you may face delays or problems with things like opening a bank account, getting an Emirates ID, or renewing visas. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  

1) Can I keep the same UID number for all the services?  

Yes. The UID is used to connect all the migration and immigration services, visa history, and Emirates ID processing on a single personal profile across the government systems.  

2) Can I access my UID number if I misplaced it?  

Yes. It can be accessed through the ICP online portal, the immigration service centres or by the assistance of the approved typing centres.  

3) Does every type of visa include a UID number?  

In most cases, a UID is generated when a tourist, visit, employment, or residence visa creates an immigration record. 

4) What is the procedure of updating an UID number?  

The UID itself does not change, but immigration authorities can correct or merge records if duplication or data errors are identified. 

5) Is UID number the same as the Emirates ID? 

No. Emirates ID possesses its own identification number, which is only connected within the government systems.