What is PRAN Number UAE? | Everything You Need to Know!

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Did you know that your PRAN number in the UAE is the first step toward obtaining an Emirates ID? But what exactly is a PRAN number, and why is it so important? Whether you are a new resident, renewing your Emirates ID, or replacing a lost one, PRAN plays a crucial role in tracking your application.

How does PRAN differ from an Emirates ID number, and can it be used for tax registration or financial transactions? Many applicants are unaware of its validity, renewal process, and retrieval methods if lost.

This guide answers all these key questions, ensuring you understand how to apply, track, and use your PRAN effectively. Read on to uncover everything you need to know about PRAN and its significance in the UAE.

What is the PRAN Number in UAE?

The PRAN number in the UAE (Personal Registration Acknowledgment Number) is a unique identifier assigned to individuals during their Emirates ID application process.

It serves as a temporary tracking number that allows applicants to monitor the status of their Emirates ID issuance, renewal, or replacement. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), the PRAN number ensures that all applications are properly documented and processed efficiently.

This number plays a significant role in government transactions, financial services, and residency procedures. Whether applying for a visa, opening a bank account, or securing employment, the PRAN number acts as a crucial reference before the Emirates ID is officially issued.

While it is not a permanent identification number, it remains essential throughout the application process and must be kept safe to avoid processing delays or reapplications.

Why Do You Need a PRAN Number in UAE?

A PRAN number is essential for individuals applying for an Emirates ID, as it acts as a temporary reference number during the application process.

It is required for tracking the progress of your ID and ensures your application is being processed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).

For residents and expatriates, the PRAN number is necessary for various legal and financial transactions, such as opening a bank account, applying for a UAE visa, and securing employment.

Employers often request the PRAN to verify an individual’s residency status. Additionally, government services, including healthcare and utility registrations, may require this number before an Emirates ID is officially issued.

Without a PRAN, individuals may face delays in processing important documents, making it a key component of establishing legal residency in the UAE.

How to Apply for a PRAN Number in UAE?

Applying for a PRAN number in the UAE is a straightforward process that can be completed online or at an Amer center or typing office. The PRAN is issued during the Emirates ID application, so applicants must first initiate their ID registration.

The process includes:

Visiting an Amer center or accessing the ICP portal
Filling out the Emirates ID application form with personal details
Submitting required documents such as a passport copy, residency visa, and photographs
Paying the application fee and receiving a receipt containing the PRAN number

Once issued, the PRAN allows applicants to track their Emirates ID application status online. Keeping this number safe is important, as it will be needed for various government and private services before receiving the official Emirates ID.

What Documents Are Required for PRAN Registration?

To apply for a PRAN number, applicants must provide a set of official documents to verify their identity and legal residency status. These documents are required whether applying online or through an Amer center.

The key documents include:

A valid passport copy with at least six months of validity
A UAE residency visa (if applicable)
A completed Emirates ID application form
Recent passport-sized photographs with a white background
Proof of UAE address, such as a tenancy contract or utility bill (if required)

For sponsored individuals, an additional requirement may include a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor. Ensuring all documents are accurate and up to date will help prevent delays in processing the PRAN number and Emirates ID application.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PRAN in UAE?

The processing time for a PRAN number in the UAE depends on the method of application and the efficiency of document verification. Generally, PRAN is issued immediately once an Emirates ID application is successfully submitted.

If applying through an Amer center or a typing office, the PRAN is provided on the payment receipt after document submission. For online applications via the ICP portal, the PRAN is generated as soon as the application is completed.

However, the overall processing time for the Emirates ID, which PRAN tracks, may take 5 to 10 business days, depending on the volume of applications and verification speed.

Urgent processing services may be available at an additional cost, significantly reducing wait times. It is advisable to keep the PRAN number safe, as it is required for tracking the application status until the Emirates ID is issued.

What is the Difference Between PRAN and TRN in UAE?

The PRAN (Personal Registration Acknowledgment Number) and TRN (Tax Registration Number) serve different purposes in the UAE.

PRAN is issued when applying for an Emirates ID and is used to track the application’s progress. It is a temporary reference number valid until the Emirates ID is issued.
TRN, on the other hand, is issued by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) for businesses and individuals registered under UAE’s VAT system. It is required for filing tax returns and conducting VAT-compliant business transactions.

PRAN is used for personal identification and residency tracking, while TRN is related to business taxation and compliance. Unlike PRAN, which expires once an Emirates ID is issued, TRN remains valid as long as the business or individual is registered for VAT. Understanding the distinction between these two numbers ensures that applicants use them correctly for their respective purposes.

What Happens After You Receive Your PRAN?

Once you receive a PRAN number, it acts as a tracking reference for your Emirates ID application. The next steps involve:

Tracking the Emirates ID status using PRAN via the ICP website or Amer centers.
Waiting for document verification and biometric scanning (if required for first-time applicants).
Receiving an Emirates ID approval notification once the application is processed.
Collecting the Emirates ID from an Emirates Post office after receiving confirmation.

During this waiting period, PRAN may be needed for certain government and financial services, such as visa renewals, salary processing, and property registrations. Keeping PRAN safe until the Emirates ID is issued ensures smooth processing of all pending applications and transactions.

How to Check PRAN Status in UAE?

Checking the status of your PRAN number is a simple process and can be done through multiple channels:

Online via the ICP website: Visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) portal, enter your PRAN number, and track the status of your Emirates ID application.
Through the ICA UAE Smart App: Download the ICA UAE app, log in with your credentials, and check your PRAN status in real-time.
By visiting an Amer center: Provide your PRAN number at an Amer service center, and they will give you an update on your application progress.

It is recommended to check the status regularly to stay informed about the next steps, such as biometric scanning or Emirates ID collection. If there are delays, contacting the ICP or Amer center can help resolve issues promptly.

What Are the Common Issues with PRAN Applications?

While applying for a PRAN number in the UAE, applicants may encounter several issues that could delay the process.

Some of the most common problems include:

Incorrect or incomplete documents: Missing or inaccurate information in the passport copy, residency visa, or Emirates ID application form can lead to rejections.
Technical errors in online applications: Submitting an application through the ICP website may sometimes result in errors due to incorrect data entry or system issues.
Delays in biometric verification: First-time applicants may be required to visit an Amer center for biometric scans, and any delay in scheduling this can postpone PRAN issuance.
Mismatch in personal details: Discrepancies between passport details and application forms can cause rejections or the need for re-submission.
Lost PRAN receipt: Since PRAN is issued on the application receipt, losing this document can make it difficult to track your Emirates ID status.

To avoid these issues, applicants should double-check their information, ensure all required documents are provided, and regularly track their PRAN status using the ICP portal.

What Are the Consequences of Losing Your PRAN Number?

Losing your PRAN number can cause delays in tracking your Emirates ID application and may require additional steps to retrieve it. Without PRAN, applicants might struggle to:

Check their Emirates ID application status online
Proceed with certain financial transactions that require proof of residency
Access government services, such as visa renewal or employment verification

If PRAN is lost, it can be retrieved in the following ways:

Checking the email confirmation received after application submission
Logging into the ICP portal to access the application details
Visiting an Amer center with your passport and visa copy to request PRAN retrieval

It is advisable to keep a digital copy of the PRAN receipt to avoid complications during the Emirates ID processing period.

Can PRAN Be Used for UAE Tax Registration?

The PRAN number is not a substitute for tax registration in the UAE but plays a role in financial processes. Businesses and individuals applying for VAT registration with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) require a Tax Registration Number (TRN), not a PRAN.

However, PRAN may be used during initial business setup or licensing before obtaining a TRN. Some banks and financial institutions may request PRAN as part of identity verification for corporate tax registration.

To avoid confusion:

PRAN is for Emirates ID application tracking and is temporary.
TRN is for tax registration and is required for VAT compliance in the UAE.

If applying for tax registration, businesses should ensure they have a valid Emirates ID linked to their TRN application.

Does PRAN Expire or Need to Be Renewed?

The PRAN number does not require renewal as it is only valid until the Emirates ID is issued. Once the Emirates ID is printed and collected, PRAN becomes obsolete and is no longer required for tracking.

However, if an Emirates ID application is rejected or canceled, the PRAN associated with it becomes invalid. In such cases, applicants must submit a new application, which will generate a new PRAN number.

Situations where PRAN becomes invalid include:

Application rejection due to missing documents
Failure to complete biometric verification
Cancelation of residency visa linked to the PRAN application

To ensure PRAN remains valid, applicants must complete all required steps, such as biometric scanning and fee payment, before the deadline set by the ICP.

What Are the Key Differences Between PRAN and Emirates ID Numbers?

Many people confuse PRAN with the Emirates ID number, but they serve different functions:

Feature	PRAN Number	Emirates ID Number
Purpose	Temporary tracking number	Permanent identification number
When Issued	During Emirates ID application	Upon approval of Emirates ID
Validity	Until Emirates ID is issued	Valid throughout residency
Use Case	Checking application status	Official ID for all UAE transactions

PRAN is a temporary number used only during the Emirates ID application process, while the Emirates ID number is permanent and required for all residency-related services. Keeping the Emirates ID safe after issuance ensures seamless access to government and private sector services.

Conclusion

The PRAN number in the UAE is more than just a reference it is a vital tool that ensures smooth processing of your Emirates ID application. Understanding its purpose, tracking methods, and common issues can help applicants avoid delays in receiving their Emirates ID.

Whether you are applying for a new ID, renewing an old one, or updating details, keeping your PRAN safe and accessible is essential. Additionally, knowing the difference between PRAN and the Emirates ID number can prevent confusion in financial and legal transactions.

By following the correct application steps and ensuring accurate documentation, residents can seamlessly navigate the UAE’s residency and identification process.

Once the Emirates ID is issued, the PRAN becomes invalid, and the ID number takes over as the permanent identification reference in all government and private sector dealings.

FAQs About PRAN Number in UAE

Can I apply for a PRAN number online?

Yes, PRAN is issued when applying for an Emirates ID online through the ICP website. You can track its status via the ICP portal or ICA UAE app.

Is PRAN required for UAE tax registration?

No, PRAN is used for Emirates ID tracking, while TRN (Tax Registration Number) is required for VAT and corporate tax registration with the Federal Tax Authority.

How can I retrieve my lost PRAN number?

You can check your email confirmation, log into the ICP website, or visit an Amer center with your passport and visa copy to retrieve your PRAN.

Does PRAN expire once I receive my Emirates ID?

Yes, PRAN is only valid during the Emirates ID application process. Once the ID is issued, PRAN is no longer needed.

Can PRAN be used as an identification number?

No, PRAN is a temporary tracking number. Your Emirates ID number is the official identification required for all government and financial transactions.