Essential Guide for New Parents in the UAE: Birth Registration and Emirates ID for Newborns
Welcoming a new child into the world is a joyous occasion, but for expatriate parents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it comes with a set of responsibilities that must be addressed promptly. All foreign nationals, including those from Pakistan, residing in the UAE are required to obtain a birth certificate and an Emirates ID for their newborns within specified time frames. Understanding these requirements can help avoid complications and potential fines.
Birth Registration Timeline
In the UAE, it is mandatory for parents to register the birth of their child within 30 days from the date of birth. This regulation applies to all residents, regardless of nationality. If the parents are from different countries, the child will automatically adopt the nationality of the father, which is an important consideration for expatriate families.
Documents Required for Birth Certificate
To initiate the process of obtaining a birth certificate, parents must gather and submit several key documents. These documents can be presented at the hospital where the child is born or to the relevant health authority in the emirate. The required documents include:
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Attested Arabic Translated Marriage Certificate: If the marriage certificate is in a language other than Arabic, it must be translated and attested.
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Passports and Residence Visas: Both parents need to provide copies and originals of their passports and residence visas. This is crucial for verifying their identity and residency status in the UAE.
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Birth Notification Details: This document is typically issued by the hospital where the child was born and serves as proof of the birth.
- Discharge Summary from the Hospital: This summary provides additional medical information and confirms the birth event.
Once the birth certificate is obtained, expatriate parents must have it attested by the Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Notably, birth certificates that are stamped by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) or the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) are considered equivalent to the seal of the Ministry of Health and Prevention, streamlining the process for parents.
Obtaining an Emirates ID for Newborns
In addition to the birth certificate, parents must also secure an Emirates ID and residence visa for their newborn within 120 days of birth. The Emirates ID serves as an official identification document and is essential for various services in the UAE.
It’s important to note that if the residence visa is not finalized within the 120-day period, parents will incur a fee of AED 100 per day for each day beyond the deadline. Moreover, without the residence visa, the newborn will not be allowed to exit the country, which can create significant challenges for families planning to travel.
The Process of Applying for Emirates ID
To apply for the Emirates ID, parents will need to provide the following documents:
- Birth Certificate: The official birth certificate obtained earlier.
- Parents’ Passports and Residence Visas: Copies of both parents’ identification documents.
- Passport-sized Photographs: Typically, two recent photographs of the newborn are required.
Once these documents are prepared, parents can visit the relevant authority or service center to complete the application process for the Emirates ID.
Importance of Compliance
Understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial for expatriate families in the UAE. Failing to register the birth or obtain the necessary documents within the stipulated time frames can lead to complications, including fines and restrictions on travel.
By being proactive and organized, parents can ensure a smooth transition into parenthood while fulfilling their legal obligations in the UAE. The process may seem daunting at first, but with the right information and preparation, it can be navigated successfully.
For further details on fees related to Emirates ID, especially in cases of loss or damage, you can refer to the official resources available online.
By staying informed and prepared, new parents can focus on what truly matters: cherishing the precious moments with their newborn in the vibrant and diverse environment of the UAE.
