Complete Guide for Gulf & Overseas Parents Applying for AICF and FIDE ID for Chess Tournaments ♟️

With the growing participation of Indian-origin children from the Gulf region and overseas countries in Indian chess tournaments, having a valid AICF ID and FIDE ID has now become extremely important for tournament participation and official rating purposes.

If you are currently residing in countries such as the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Australia, the UK, the USA, or any other overseas region, this guide will help you complete the registration process smoothly for your child.


Why is FIDE ID Important?

A FIDE ID is the official international identification number issued by the World Chess Federation (FIDE). It is mandatory for participating in:

  • FIDE Rated Chess Tournaments
  • National Rating Events
  • International Events
  • Official Rating Calculations

Similarly, an AICF ID is compulsory for Indian players participating in tournaments conducted under the All India Chess Federation.


Step-by-Step Process for Gulf & Overseas Parents

Step 1: Create an Active AICF ID

Before applying for a FIDE ID, parents must first create an active AICF ID.

Official AICF Registration Portal:

All India Chess Federation (AICF) Registration Portal

Please ensure:

  • All player details are entered correctly
  • Name matches passport/birth certificate
  • Date of birth is accurate
  • State association is correctly selected (based on your Indian home state)

Step 2: Send Email Request for FIDE ID Generation

Once the AICF ID is active, parents need to send an official email request to the AICF Rating Officer.

Email IDs:


Email Format

You can use the following email template:

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to request the creation of a FIDE ID for my child.

We are currently residing in [Specify Gulf Country / Overseas Country – e.g., UAE, Qatar, Singapore, UK, USA, etc.] under a work visa. My child intends to participate in upcoming chess tournaments and requires official registration.

Player Details:

• Full Name: [Child’s Full Name]
• Date of Birth: [DD/MM/YYYY]
• Gender: [Male/Female]
• AICF ID: [Mention AICF ID]
• State Association: [Mention Indian Home State – e.g., Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, etc.]

I have attached a copy of my child’s Birth Certificate and Passport as proof of age and identity.

Kindly process this request at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number / Contact Details]


Important Documents Required

Please ensure the following documents are attached clearly:

✅ Birth Certificate
✅ Passport Copy
✅ Active AICF ID Details

Important Note:

The scanned copies must be:

  • Clear
  • Legible
  • Properly visible
  • Not blurred or cropped

Incorrect or unclear documents may delay the FIDE ID approval process.


After Submission – What Happens Next?

Once the documents and email are verified:

  • Your child’s AICF & FIDE registration process will be completed
  • The official FIDE ID will be generated/activated
  • Your child will become eligible to participate in FIDE-rated chess tournaments

Special Advice for Gulf & Overseas Parents

Many overseas Indian families are now actively encouraging their children to participate in competitive chess events in India and internationally. Having the registration completed in advance helps avoid:

  • Last-minute tournament issues
  • Rating registration delays
  • Entry rejection due to missing FIDE ID

We highly recommend parents complete this process well before upcoming tournaments.


Final Note ♟️

Chess continues to grow rapidly across the Gulf region and worldwide, and we are extremely happy to see so many overseas children participating actively in Indian chess tournaments.

If you face any confusion during the registration process, do reach out to your tournament organizers or local chess coordinators for guidance.

We wish all young chess players the very best for their upcoming tournaments and chess journey ahead! 🌍♟️