ICV Certificate Renewal: Process, Timeline, and Costs
Last updated: June 2026
ICV certificates in the UAE are valid for 14 months from the date of issue and must be renewed annually against a new set of standalone audited financial statements. Renewal follows the same process and cost structure as initial certification.
The 14-Month Validity Rule
The 14-month validity period provides a 2-month buffer beyond the annual renewal cycle, allowing companies to complete their annual audit and recertification without a coverage gap. A certificate expiring mid-contract generates zero ICV contribution for the prime contractor from the expiry date — making timely renewal commercially critical for suppliers.
Renewal Timeline
| Months before expiry | Action |
|---|---|
| 5–6 months | Begin annual financial audit |
| 3–4 months | Audit completes; engage certifying body |
| 2–3 months | Certification review and calculation |
| 1–2 months | New certificate issued |
Documentation Required for Renewal
- New standalone audited financial statements for the most recent financial year
- Updated payroll records
- Supplier invoices and their ICV certificates
- Updated fixed asset register
- Training expenditure records
Why Scores Change at Renewal
- Supplier certificates that lapsed during the year reduce procurement credit
- Workforce changes — Emirati departures reduce the highest-weighted component
- From July 2026, UAE nationals earning below AED 6,000/month no longer count
- One-off capital investments from the prior year no longer recur
Switching Certifying Bodies at Renewal
Companies may switch to a different MoIAT-authorised certifying body at renewal. Comparing quotes across the 21 authorised firms can reduce renewal costs. View all 21 certifying bodies →
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an ICV certificate valid?
14 months from the date of issue. The certificate must be renewed annually against new standalone audited financial statements.
What happens if my ICV certificate expires?
From the expiry date, your company contributes zero ICV credit to customers' compliance calculations, and you receive a default zero score in tender evaluations until a new certificate is issued.
How much does ICV renewal cost?
Renewal costs are similar to initial certification — AED 150,000 to AED 400,000 depending on company size and certifying body, plus annual audit costs.
Can I change my certifying body at renewal?
Yes. Companies may switch to any of the 21 MoIAT-authorised certifying bodies at renewal.
Why did my ICV score drop at renewal?
Common causes include supplier certificates that lapsed during the year, Emirati staff departures, one-off capital investments not recurring, and the July 2026 rule excluding UAE nationals earning below AED 6,000/month.
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