UAE Labour Card: Check Status, Download PDF, and Apply Online
Do you know about the UAE Labour Card? If you work in the UAE, it introduces you to the terms and conditions of employment. It serves as a ticket to work in the UAE legally. If you do not have this, you cannot legally work in the United Arab Emirates.
A Labour card, also known as a work permit. Labour card issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). It contains your personal information, job title, and employer records. It confirms that your job is registered under UAE labour laws and contains information about your employment.
Complete Guide 2026
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Overview
What Is a UAE Labour Card?
Immigrant workers in the UAE are foreign workers who have moved to the United Arab Emirates for employment. Based on the results of the proximity of the UAE to South Asia, job opportunities, and higher economic conditions, most migrant foreign workers are from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Pakistan.
According to 2019 stats, the UAE had the second-largest international stock of immigrants in the world at 87.9%, including 8.6 million migrants, with a total population of 9.8 million. Non-citizen migrant workers account for 90% of its workforce.
The UAE labour card is an essential document because it serves as identification to work in the United Arab Emirates legally. The UAE work permit card is a digital document that proves you’re allowed to work here. The card is issued by the relevant free zone you work in or the MOHRE. The work permit is also available in digital form for workers’ ease. It can easily be accessed through payroll and other government services like MOHRE or UAE PASS.
It consists of details, including
Pro Tip: Keeping information accurate is important because it may be needed when using government employment services or resolving work-related matters.
For Employees: An employment ID card serves as proof of your employment and contains important details about you, such as your job details, who you work for, and when your permit needs to be renewed.
For Employers: It is your responsibility to make sure all your employees have valid Labour cards. This ensures your business complies with UAE labor laws, helping you avoid legal issues or fines.
Why It Matters
Why Is a Labour Card Important?
Your labour card is more than just an employment document. It’s actually an official proof of your employment and safeguards your legal rights, as mentioned in your work contract.
A work permit helps both employees to comply with UAE labour regulations. This acts as a foundation of communication between the worker and the employer. It facilitates processes like employee benefits and payroll management.
This labour card can help you:
Pro tip
If any information is incorrect on your Labour card, it’s best to have it updated first to avoid delays in the future.
Compare
UAE Labour Card in Dubai vs Work Permit vs Labour Contract
Many people consider these three documents to be the same, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you avoid confusion when applying for these documents.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Labour Card | It shows that your employment is officially registered and contains your employment details. It helps verify that your job information has been registered with the appropriate labour authority. |
| Work Permit | A work permit gives legal authorization for an employee to work for an individual employer in the United Arab Emirates. Without the required work permit, employment may not comply with UAE labour regulations. |
| Labour Contract | A labour contract is a legal agreement that shows your salary, job role, working hours, leave, benefits, contract period, leave entitlements, and other employment conditions. |
Although these documents are connected, each one acts as a different behavior in the employment process.
Eligibility
Who Needs a UAE Labour Card?
A labour card is used as an official work permit that verifies your legal right to work. A UAE labour card is compulsory for all expatriate employees and nationals. Which works in the UAE’s private and government sectors, including those in free zones. Accurate requirements depend on the type of employer, arrangement of employment, and the authority responsible for issuing documents.
Normally, a labour card is needed:
Who May Have Different Requirements?
Each worker doesn’t follow the same process.
For example:
Pro Tip: If you are uncertain which rules apply to your job, check with your employer or the relevant government authority before starting any application.
Eligibility
Eligibility Requirements for a Labour Card Dubai
To get a labour card from the MOHRE before starting, you need some initial documents for the application process. Document requirements are different depending on the situation of the employee and the employer. Having everything ready can speed up the process and reduce the risk of delays.
Employee eligibility
Employer eligibility
Employers have some responsibilities during the application process. They generally need to:
Keep records accurate
Employers are responsible for ensuring that employment records remain accurate and up-to-date.
Checklist
Documents Required for a UAE Labour Card
Before starting the application process, both the employee and employer must prepare the essential documents. Having everything ready can speed up the process and reduce the risk of delays.
The required documents may vary depending on the employee’s situation, but the following are commonly requested.
From Employees
Employees are usually asked to provide:
From Employers
Employers may submit these documents:
Match your official records
Make sure the information you provide matches your official records. This helps you avoid verification issues. The exact list may vary depending on the employer type and employment category.
STEP BY STEP
How to Apply Online for a UAE Labour Card
A UAE labour card is normally issued as part of the employment process after your employer completes the required work permit and employment formalities. Employees generally do not submit applications on their own, as the employer is responsible for initiating and managing the process through the approved government channels.
Before the application begins, your employer will collect the required documents and submit your employment details to the relevant authority. Once the application is approved, your labour card is created and linked to your employment record.
Although the exact process may vary depending on your employer and employment category, the overall steps remain similar.
Application Process for New Employees
If you are starting a new job in the UAE, the process generally includes the following steps:
1
Job offer and work permit
The employer submits a work permit application to MOHRE. Once approved, employees receive a job offer from a registered employer.
2
Entry permit and medical test
Accept and sign the employment offer. Foreign workers entering the UAE receive an entry permit and must undergo a medical fitness test.
3
Submit your documents
Submit the required personal documents.
4
Your employer applies for the necessary work permit.
Employers can apply for other documents, such as
5
Labour Contract Registration with MOHRE
The relevant authority reviews the application. The employment contract is registered with MOHRE to formalize the job terms.
6
Labour Card Issuance
Once all approvals are completed, MOHRE issues the UAE labour card for your employment records.
Employees can then:
Employees should always provide accurate information to avoid delays during document verification.
More Application Cases
Workers already in the UAE
Workers hired from outside the UAE
Your employer normally guides you through each step.
Labour card processing time
The processing times may vary depending on the application type, document verification, and government approvals.
If additional documents are required or corrections are needed, the process may take longer than expected.
CHECK STATUS
How to Check Your Labour Card Status Online
Official digital services make it easy to view your employment information without visiting a government office. There are four common ways to check your card status. Always use the official government website to protect your personal information.
Method 1: MOHRE website
Visit the official MOHRE website, open the employment or inquiry services, enter the required information, and view your available employment details.
Always make sure you are using the official government website to protect your personal information.
Method 2: MOHRE mobile app
If you are using a smartphone, the MOHRE mobile app provides quick access to many employment services.
Follow these steps:
The available features may change as government services are updated.
Method 3: UAE PASS
Most employees also use UAE PASS to access digital government services. You may be able to view your employment records and access your electronic labour card, depending on the services available for your account.
Simply follow these steps:
Pro Tip: If the document does not appear, it means your employment may be in a free zone, your record may not be linked correctly, or the permit application may still be in process.
Method 4: Approved service centre
If you cannot access your labour card online, you can also seek assistance through an approved service centre or ask your employer for support.
This option may be useful if you experience technical issues or need help verifying your employment information.
Must have these documents with you:
Card not showing?
If the document does not appear, your employment may be in a free zone, your record may not be linked correctly, or the permit application may still be in process.
Download and Print
How to Download and Print Your Labour Card
The UAE offers most employment services digitally. Instead of carrying a physical document, you download the electronic version and use it whenever needed.
Through MOHRE services
Pro Tip: Saving a digital copy on your device can be useful whenever you need quick access to your employment information.
Through UAE PASS
Many government services can also be accessed through UAE PASS, which is fast, secure, and paper-free. After logging in successfully, eligible users may find their employment documents within the available digital services and download them whenever needed.
Doesn’t need to visit any center or pay any extra fees. This smart step is part of the UAE’s vision for a digital and efficient government. Stay updated and manage your official documents easily using your smartphone!
Can you print your labor card?
Yes, after downloading the electronic version of your labour card, you can usually print it for your personal records whenever necessary.
However, as government services continue to move towards digital documents. Many organizations now accept the electronic version instead of requesting a printed copy.
Card Number
How to Find Your Labour Card Number
Your labour card number is a unique identification number linked to your employment record. Your labour card number is normally linked to your work permit record.
Where to find it
Pro Tip: Always keep your labour card number in a safe place for future reference.
If you cannot find it
If you don’t have your labour card number in the UAE, you can retrieve it easily by using your Emirates ID through the official Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) app or the UAE PASS app. Nowa days Physical cards are no longer issued, so everything is easily accessible digitally.
Pro Tip: Avoid using unofficial websites or third-party services to retrieve personal employment information.
Can you check with your Emirates ID?
In a few cases, government services may allow employment information to be linked with your Emirates ID or UAE PASS account. You can check and download your UAE labour card details using your Emirates ID through the official MOHRE website. Using your Emirates ID to verify your employment status and view your electronic work permit via several convenient methods.
Pro Tip: If you cannot access your labour card through one method, try another official website or contact your employer for assistance.
Troubleshooting
What If Your Labour Card Is Not Showing Online?
If your labour card is not showing online, it simply means it has either expired or is still being processed by your employer, or there is temporary system maintenance, or your visa falls under a specific category that does not issue a standard labour card, such as a free zone or domestic worker visa.
Pro Tip: If the issue continues, contact your employer or the relevant authority for further guidance.
Fees and Cost
UAE Labour Card Fees and Cost
The fees for a UAE labour card depend on multiple factors under MOHRE’s tier system. It includes the type of work permit, the employer’s classification, and the employee’s job category.
Since labour fees may change over time, employees should always check the updated information using official channels or confirm the amount with their employer.
Mostly, the employers are responsible for completing the labour card process and paying the applicable government fees.
Category 1 companies pay lower fees, while Category 3 companies face premium charges. As of 2026, the standard fee structure is:
| Fee Component | Category 1 | Category 2 | Category 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Issuance | AED 250 | AED 1,250 | AED 3,450 |
| Work Permit Renewal | AED 250 | AED 1,250 | AED 3,450 |
| Offer Letter Approval | AED 100 | AED 100 | AED 100 |
| Status Change | AED 250 | AED 1,250 | AED 3,450 |
In addition to the official labour card and work permit fees, applicants may need to pay for related services such as a medical fitness test, Emirates ID application, residency processing, or typing center assistance, depending on their employment category and application requirements.
Since these charges may change over time, it is always best to confirm the latest fees through official UAE government channels or your employer.
Who pays the fees
Under the UAE regulations of the labour card, employers generally handle the labour card application and government fees. Employees should not be asked to pay official employment processing charges except if permitted under the applicable regulations.
If you are unsure about any payment request, ask your employer for clarification before making any payment.
Are There Additional Charges?
Additional costs depend on the application for services such as:
The exact charges depend on the type of request being submitted.
Validity and Expiry
Labour Card Validity and Expiry Rules
The UAE labour card is valid for 2 years (3 years for government employees), as approved by the relevant authority or company. The validity normally matches your approved employment records and work permit. The fees currently range between AED 250 and AED 3,450.
Employees need to keep track of the expiry date to avoid delays when renewing employment documents. Please remember to continue the card within 50 days after it expires. If the employer doesn’t apply for a new labor card within 60 days of entry to AUE, they could be fined AED 500. Working without a permit can result in severe penalties.
Pro Tip: Visit the MOHRE website and click the ‘Fine Calculator’ option during ‘Choose A Service.’ Once you enter your card number, you can view your UAE labor card fines.
How long is it valid?
A labour card should be renewed through the proper process once it expires. Delaying renewal may affect employment records and could lead to additional administrative procedures.
To avoid unnecessary problems:
What Happens When a Labour Card Expires?
A labour card should be renewed through the proper process once it expires. Delaying renewal may affect employment records and could lead to additional administrative procedures.
RENEWAL
UAE Labour Card Renewal Process
Renewing your labour card within 50 days of its expiry date, which helps keep your employment records active and up-to-date. Your employer usually handles the renewal online process before the existing labour card expires.
You can view the status of your application using the official government website or the Tash’heel center. You only need to enter the IN number on the application receipt. You’ll receive the new card within ten days once the application is processed and renewal is granted.
You must provide a valid document and information on the reasons for the change. Please note that you may need a letter of approval from the relevant government agencies if you update the labor card’s job for medical or academic employees.
Pro Tip: Starting the renewal process early before the expiry date can help prevent interruptions in employment-related services.
1
Employer Initiates Renewal:
The employer starts the renewal process by submitting the application and required documents through the MoHRE portal or at a Tas’heel service center.
2
Prepare the documents
Get ready a passport-sized photo, a valid passport copy, a current labour card copy, a valid trade license copy, a valid Emirates ID, medical fitness results, and educational certificates if needed.
Providing complete and accurate documents helps the renewal process move more smoothly.
3
You can pay the fees:
Payment of fees, depending on your category
- Category 1: AED 250 for companies that meet full Emiratisation targets, follow Wage Protection System (WPS) compliance, and operate within skill level guidelines.
- Category 2: AED 600 to AED 2,000 – For companies partially meeting Emiratisation or WPS requirements. Fee breakdown:
- AED 600: For skilled workers (Level 1, 2, or 3).
- AED 1,500 to AED 2,000: For unskilled workers in Level 4 or 5 or companies not fully compliant.
- Category 3: In this category, prices range from AED 3,000 to AED 3,450, for companies with violations, low Emiratisation rates, or failure to follow laws and regulations.
4
Submit the request
After paying fees, your employer submits the renewal request.
5
Issuance of Renewed Labour Card:
Issuance of Renewed Labour Card: Once the process is approved, your renewed Labour card will be available. The digital documentation of the UAE Labour card is available, so check the MoHRE app or website.
Start early
Employees should always verify that their renewed labour card information is correct after the process is complete.
It is best to begin the renewal process before the expiry date. Waiting until the last moment may increase the risk of delays, especially if additional documents or approvals are required.
Fines and Penalties
Labour Card Fines and Penalties
Keeping your labour card up to date is important for maintaining accurate employment records. Delays in completing required employment procedures may result in administrative issues or penalties, depending on the situation.
Late renewal
Working Without Valid Employment Documents
Employer responsibilities
Employers are responsible for:
Employees should also cooperate by providing accurate information whenever requested.
Work Permits
Types of UAE Work Permits
The UAE MOHRE gives 13 types of distinct work permits. Each one has specific employment circumstances, ranging from traditional overseas recruitment to freelance and student contracts. Different work permits is constant by your employment status and the nature of the job
Understanding the available permit types can help employees and employers to choose the correct employment route.
Standard work permit
This is the most common permit issued to employees working for private sector companies in the UAE.
Transfer work permit
This permit is issued when moving a non-UAE worker from one UAE-based establishment to another after completing the required procedures. This permit supports labor mobility while protecting workers’ rights.
Temporary work permit
A temporary work permit is intended for short-term employment or temporary assignments. It is ideal for project-based jobs, urgent business needs, or seasonal employment.
Project work permit
The project work permit is issued for employees hired to complete a specific project within a defined period.
Part-time work permit
Employees who work part-time for an approved employer may require a part-time work permit, typically with limited weekly hours per job.
Freelance work permit
Some professionals may be eligible to work independently under a freelance permit, subject to the applicable rules and approvals. It allows individuals to legally work without being tied to a single employer.
Family sponsored work permit
Individuals sponsored may need a separate work permit before starting employment. This permit enables companies to hire residents who are already legally sponsored by their spouse or parents
Golden Visa employment permit
Golden Visa holders with long-term residency in the UAE wishing to hire individuals. It may need to follow the employment procedures that apply to their specific circumstances.
Remote work permit
Remote workers are subject to different immigration and employment requirements. It depends on the type of visa or permit they hold.
Some other types of Restricted Permits
The UAE MOHRE gives 13 types of distinct work permits. Each one has specific employment circumstances, ranging from traditional overseas recruitment to freelance and student contracts. Different work permits is constant by your employment status and the nature of the job
Understanding the available permit types can help employees and employers to choose the correct employment route.
Juvenile Work Permit
It only allows teens aged between 15 and 18 to work under strict and safe conditions and is valid for one year. It requires a medical fitness certificate and parental consent and limits youth to 6-hour daily shifts with no night work.
Student Training & Employment Permit
The UAE Ministry allows students aged 15 to 18 to legally work for employment and training while studying. The permit is valid for three months and costs AED 50.
Private Teacher Work Permit
It allows qualified professionals to legally offer private lesson services both online and in person. This work permit is completely free and valid for two years. It is only for registered teachers, university students, government/private sector employees, unemployed individuals, and school students aged 15 to 18.
UAE/GCC National Work Permit:
It facilitates private sector employment for Emirati and GCC citizens. This permit does not require a residence visa.
National Trainee Permit
National Trainee permit Issued to train UAE citizens according to their academic qualifications. It allows Ministry-registered private sector companies to hire and train Emirati nationals in alignment.
Before applying for any work permit, always confirm the latest eligibility requirements through the valid government authority.
Free Zone Rules
Labour Card Rules for Free Zone Employees
The employees working for companies registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) typically follow the standard labour card process.
However, many employees in the UAE free zones generally follow the employment rules set by their respective free zone authorities.
Each free zone authority has its own employment law, and employees are subject to the rules and regulations of their respective free zone authority. Employees are under a contract with the respective free zone authority.
Free zone employees do not get a standard Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) Labour card.
Instead, their work permits and employment contracts are issued, attested, and governed by their specific Free Zone Authority, such as DMCC, JAFZA, and DAFZA. The sponsoring entity is the Free Zone Authority itself.
According to Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 applies as the baseline for labor rights. This law’s rules for free zone labour cards and work permits require attention to several specific details.
Mainland employees
Free zone employees
Pro Tip: If you are employed in a free zone and you cannot find your labour card through MOHRE, this does not necessarily mean there is a problem with your employment.
Replace and Correct
How to Replace a Lost, Damaged Labour Card
To replace a lost UAE Labour card, you must first obtain a police report for the lost item. The card can be accessed again through official digital services or by contacting your employer.
Your employer or PRO must then log into the MOHRE Portal or visit a Tasheel service center to submit a replacement request. Paying a replacement fee of exactly AED 200 in most cases, the card can be accessed again through official digital services or by contacting your employer.
Pro Tip: Keeping a digital copy of your employment records can make future access much easier.
The replacement process generally includes:
Cancellation
Labour Card Cancellation Process
The cancellation of a UAE labour card, the employer must begin the process through the وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين portal or an authorized typing center. Both parties must sign the cancellation form confirming that all wages, end-of-service benefits, and financial dues have been successfully settled.
The labour card is normally cancelled when an employee leaves a job or the employment relationship officially ends. The cancellation process online helps to ensure that employment records remain accurate.
When cancellation is required
Who handles it
In most situations, the employer is responsible for completing the labour card cancellation process through the appropriate government system.
Employees should review their employment records after cancellation. It makes sure everything has been completed correctly.
Corrections
How to Correct Incorrect Labour Card Information
All information on your labour card must be accurate. Even a small mistake can create problems when accessing employment services or completing future applications.
Common errors
How to request a correction
- Inform your employer immediately.
- Provide the correct supporting documents.
- Ask your employer to submit the correction request through the appropriate channel.
- Check your updated employment record once the correction is complete.
Do not ignore incorrect information, as it may cause delays when using employment services in the future.
Your Rights
Employee Rights Linked to a UAE Labour Card
A valid labour card does more than confirm your employment status. It also supports your rights as an employee under UAE labour regulations. While your labour card itself does not grant these rights, it forms part of your official employment record.
Understanding your rights can help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure that your employment follows the applicable laws.
Salary and wage protection
Employees have the right to receive their salary according to the agreed employment terms. Employers are expected to follow the approved payment procedures and maintain accurate salary records.
If you notice any issues related to salary payments, speak with your employer first. If the matter is not resolved, you may seek guidance through the appropriate government channels.
Employment Contract Rights
Before starting work, employees should carefully review their employment contract.
Your contract normally includes important information such as the following:
Always keep a copy of your employment contract for future reference.
Leave and working hours
Employees are normally entitled to leave and working conditions according to UAE labour regulations and their employment contract.
These may include:
The exact entitlement depends on your employment agreement and the applicable labour regulations.
End-of-Service Benefits
Benefits
Benefits of Having a Valid UAE Labour Card
A labour card offers several practical benefits for both employees and employers.
Proof of legal employment
Easier Access to Employment Services
Accurate Employment Records
Better employment protection
Important labour law updates
Employment rules may change over time as new regulations are introduced. Because of this, employees should avoid relying on outdated information found on unofficial websites or older articles.
Whenever you need the latest guidance on labour cards, work permits, or employment procedures, always verify the information through official UAE government services or your employer.
Checking official updates regularly can help you stay informed and avoid unnecessary delays.
Troubleshooting
Common Problems and Solutions
Some workers face small issues when they check or download their card. Here are the most common problems and simple ways to solve them.
|
Problem |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Labour card not showing online |
Your record may not be linked yet, or you may be a free zone employee. Wait for processing to finish or ask your employer. |
|
Wrong details on the card |
Report the error to your employer so they can submit a correction request through the official system. |
|
Cannot log in to UAE PASS |
Make sure your account is verified. Reset your details in the app or contact UAE PASS support. |
|
Card expired |
Ask your employer to start the renewal quickly to avoid a fine. |
|
Unsure who pays the fee |
In most cases, the employer pays. Confirm before making any payment yourself. |
Summary
Conclusion
A UAE labor card is an important part of your employment record, which helps confirm that your job is registered through the appropriate employment process. Always keep your employment information accurate, monitor important dates, and use official government services whenever you need to check or update your records. If you are unsure about any part of the process, speak with your employer or the relevant authority for guidance.
By understanding your labour card and keeping your employment documents up to date, you can avoid unnecessary delays and manage your employment with greater confidence.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about the UAE labour card.
Official Government Portal
Manage Your Labour Card the Official Way
For the most accurate and up to date information, always use the official MOHRE portal. You can check your card status, download your digital copy, view fees, and manage renewals in one secure place. Avoid unofficial websites when sharing your personal details.