How to Get My PRAN Number in UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide

Imagine you’re in the UAE and need to acquire an Emirates ID to access the local facilities and systems. While the process for Emirate ID goes on, you get a PRAN Number (Personal Registration Acknowledgment Number) which gives you access to the facilities and local benefits in the country.

You get to enjoy different services in the country without yet having an Emirates ID while allowing the government to keep track of your records. It is an essential step to settle in UAE. This guide walks you through the steps to acquire and use your PRAN number.

What is a PRAN Number in the UAE?

Imagine it as a temporary identification card number that you get as soon as you submit your application for an Emirates ID or rather a receipt that allows you access to the facilities in UAE without an ID by letting the authorities know you are undergoing the legal process to attain one. It is a streamlined legal requirement acting as your temporary UAE passport/identification card.

Eligibility Requirements for PRAN in the UAE

You need to meet the following requirements in order to be eligible for a PRAN number in the United Arab Emirates:

Individual Applicants Only: PRANs are issued exclusively to individuals; businesses or organizations are not eligible.

Age Requirement: Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 60.

Valid Residence Visa: A current UAE residence visa is mandatory for all applicants.

Unique PRAN Ownership: Individuals can hold only one valid PRAN at any given time; those already possessing a PRAN cannot apply for another.

Benefits of Personal Registration Acknowledgment Number

Here are the essential facilities and services in UAE that you get through your PRAN while waiting for your Emirates ID:

Track Your Emirates ID Application

You can track the status of your Emirates ID. Whether applying for a new one, renewing, or requesting a replacement.
Benefit: Keeps you updated on application progress in real-time.
Main Beneficiaries: Individuals new to the UAE

Open Bank Accounts

It is required for opening a bank account and making investments in the UAE.
Benefit: Streamlines account verification and setup.
Main Beneficiaries: Businessmen, Entrepreneurs, Employees, etc.

Financial Transactions

The number is Essential for making secure payments, fund transfers, and investments.
Benefit: Ensures financial safety and smooth transactions.
Main Beneficiaries: Investors, Business Owners, Expats

Simplify Administrative Tasks

The card reduces paperwork and official documentation complexity.
Benefit: Saves time and effort in approvals and submissions.
Main Beneficiaries: Residents, Employees, Business Owners

ID Verification

It serves as a unique identifier across government and private sectors.
Benefit: Eliminates repeated identity checks and speeds up processes.
Main Beneficiaries: Job Seekers, Employers

Visa Applications and Renewals

It is required for submitting visa applications and renewals.
Benefit: Ensures timely visa processing with minimal delays.
Main Beneficiaries: Expats, New Residents, Employers

Access Government Services

It enables access to healthcare, utilities, education, and other public services.
Benefit: Facilitates smoother interactions with authorities.
Main Beneficiaries: Residents, Citizens, Families

Healthcare and Insurance

Links to medical records and insurance claims processing.
Benefit: Ensures fast and hassle-free access to healthcare services.
Main Beneficiaries: Patients, Insurance Holders, Healthcare Providers

Property Transactions

Required for property purchases, sales, and registrations.
Benefit: Ensures legally secure and transparent property dealings.
Main Beneficiaries: Home Buyers, Real Estate Investors, Landlords

Steps to Get A PRAN Number

You can choose an online application as well as an offline application. Follow these steps to successfully get the PRAN number that’ll help you track your Emirates ID card status while getting all the necessary facilities in the country:

Offline Application:

1. Gather Required Documents:

Valid passport.
UAE residence visa copy.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Any additional documents as specified by the application center.

2. Locate and Visit the Nearest Amer Center or Typing Office:

Identify the closest Amer Center or authorized typing office in your area.
Visit the selected center during working hours.

3. Fill Out the Application Form and Submit:

Obtain the PRAN application form (often referred to as Annexure S1) from the center.
Accurately complete the form with your personal details.
Submit the filled form along with the required documents to the center’s staff.
Pay the applicable processing fees.

Upon submission, you will receive a receipt containing your PRAN number.

Online Application:

1. Create an Account on the ICP Website:

You have to visit the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
The, register for a new account using your personal details and visa information.

2. Fill Out the Online Form and Upload Necessary Documents:

Log in to your ICP account.
Navigate to the “New Pre-registration Application” service.
You need to complete the online application form with accurate information.
Then, upload scanned copies of the required documents, including your passport and residence visa.

3. Payment Process and Submission:

Proceed to the payment section to pay the necessary fees online.
After payment, submit your application through the portal.

You will receive a receipt with a unique reference number, which can be used to track your application status. Once approved, your PRAN number will be issued, and you can download or print it for your records.

Common Uses of the PRAN Number in Daily Life

Once you have your PRAN number, it is going to make your stay in the UAE smooth and hassle-free. Without it, you wouldn’t be eligible for many of the services and facilities necessary for daily life. Here’s a list of common uses of the PRAN number in daily life:

Visa applications and renewals.
Emirates ID card processes.
Opening bank accounts.
Employment procedures.
Accessing government services.
Managing National Pension System (NPS) accounts.

How to Check Your Emirates ID Status in the UAE

Go to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security website.

Find the “Check ID status” section.
Type your PRAN number (without the hyphen).
Click “Check” to see your status.

You can also visit an Amer center. Give them your PRAN number. The staff will check your application and update you.

Manage and Secure Your PRAN Number UAE

Category	Tips	Action Steps
Safeguarding Your PRAN	Keep it Private	Never share your PRAN with strangers or online.
	Avoid Storing Online	Do not save your PRAN in emails, cloud storage, or unsecured digital files.
	Keep a Printed Copy	Store a physical copy in a safe place at home.
	Beware of Scams	Ignore emails or messages asking for your PRAN; do not click on suspicious links.
Managing Your PRAN	Update Your Address	Notify the ICP or Amer center if you move to keep your PRAN linked to your new location.
	Report Loss or Theft	If your PRAN is lost or stolen, visit an Amer center or contact ICP for a replacement.
	Check Visa Validity	Ensure your visa is always valid to prevent PRAN cancellation.
	Stay Updated	Regularly check the ICP website for PRAN policy updates and new application procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the application process for a PRAN in the UAE?

The process of application in the UAE involves submitting an application form for PRAN along with copies of your passport and visa type details. You can apply for a PRAN online or at any Amer center, depending on your preference.

2. Is a PRAN required for the Emirates ID Number?

Yes, the personal registration acknowledgment number is crucial because it acts as a reference number during the card application process of an ID in UAE. It helps track the progress of your Emirates ID until the final card is issued.

3. How can I know the status of my PRAN application?

You can visit ICP or an Amer center and provide your PRAN to check the status of your application. Alternatively, you can use the “Check ID status” option on the official ICP website.

4. What happens if I lose my PRAN?

If you lose your PRAN, you should immediately contact ICP or visit an Amer center to request a replacement. You may need to download your PRAN receipt or provide other details to verify your identity.

5. Can I apply for an Emirates ID without a PRAN?

No, the PRAN is crucial as it is part of the Emirates ID registration process. Without it, you cannot proceed with your Emirates ID card application.

6. What documents do I need to apply for an ID?

When you apply for an Emirates ID, you must submit your passport and visa, along with the PRAN document you received during registration. Additional documents may be required based on your visa type.

7. Is the PRAN number assigned permanently?

No, the number assigned as a PRAN is temporary. It is only valid during the Emirates ID application process and expires once your Emirates ID number is issued.

8. Can UAE residents apply for a PRAN multiple times?

No, obtaining a PRAN is a one-time process per ID application. Since a PRAN is unique, UAE residents cannot reapply unless their previous application was canceled or rejected.

9. How do I track my ID application using my PRAN?

You can use your PRAN to check the status of your application through the official ICP website. Simply enter your PRAN in the “Check ID Status” section.

10. What are the benefits of obtaining your PRAN?

The benefits of obtaining your PRAN include access to services in the UAE, such as opening bank accounts, securing employment, and applying for various government services while waiting for your Emirates ID card application to be completed.