If you are planning to work in the UAE or have recently secured employment, understanding the labour card process in UAE is essential. A labour card—officially known as a work permit—is your legal authorization to work in the country. Without it, employment is illegal, and both employee and employer may face penalties.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the labour card process, including eligibility, application steps, costs, renewal, cancellation, and digital access.
What Is a Labour Card in the UAE?
A labour card (work permit) is an official authorization issued by the
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) for mainland companies or by the respective free zone authority for free zone employees.
It confirms:
- You are legally employed in the UAE
- Your employer is licensed and authorized to hire you
- Your employment complies with UAE labour law
Today, labour cards are fully digital and linked to your
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) Emirates ID record.
You can download and print your labour card through official portals.
Labour Card vs Emirates ID
Many residents confuse these two documents.
| Labour Card | Emirates ID |
|---|---|
| Issued by MoHRE or Free Zone Authority | Issued by ICP |
| Authorizes you to work | Serves as national identification |
| Contains employment details | Contains personal identification details |
| Mandatory for legal employment | Mandatory for residency and services |
Both are required and digitally linked in government systems.
Why the Labour Card Is Important
For employees, a valid labour card ensures:
- Legal authorization to work
- Salary payments through the Wage Protection System (WPS)
- Access to annual leave and sick leave benefits
- End-of-service gratuity entitlement
- Health insurance coverage
- Protection under UAE Labour Law
For employers, it ensures:
- Legal compliance
- Avoidance of fines
- Smooth payroll operations
- Visa processing eligibility
Who Needs a Labour Card?
Every employee working in the UAE requires a labour card, including:
- Private sector employees (mainland)
- Free zone employees
- Part-time workers
- Temporary workers
- Students under training permits
- Golden Visa holders taking employment
No one can legally work in the UAE without a valid work permit.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a labour card, employees must:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18–60 years (exceptions possible) |
| Job Offer | Valid contract from licensed employer |
| Medical Fitness | Must pass UAE medical test |
| Legal Entry | Valid entry permit or visa status |
| Qualifications | Attested certificates (if required) |
Employers must apply within 60 days of the employee’s arrival.
Types of Labour Cards / Work Permits
The UAE offers various types of permits:
| Permit Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Work Permit | Hiring from abroad | 2 years |
| Transfer Work Permit | Job transfer within UAE | 2 years |
| Part-Time Permit | Multiple employers | Varies |
| Temporary Permit | Short-term projects | Up to 6 months |
| Mission Permit | Specialized tasks | Up to 90 days |
| Student Training Permit | Internships | 3 months |
| Juvenile Permit | Ages 15–18 | 1 year |
| Freelance Permit | Self-employment | 1–2 years |
| Golden Visa Work Permit | Golden Visa employment | 2 years |
Labour Card Process in UAE: Step-by-Step
Stage 1: Job Offer & Contract
The process begins with a signed employment contract registered with MoHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
All employment contracts are fixed-term contracts under UAE law.
Stage 2: Work Permit Application
Your employer submits a work permit application through MoHRE or the free zone authority.
Documents submitted include:
- Passport copy
- Photograph
- Educational certificates
- Signed employment contract
Authorities verify:
- Company trade license
- Visa quota availability
- Applicant qualifications
Stage 3: Entry Permit
Once approved, an entry permit (pink visa) is issued, valid for 60 days.
If already in the UAE, a status change is processed instead of exit.
Stage 4: Medical Fitness Test
Mandatory medical screening includes:
- Chest X-ray
- Blood tests
- General examination
Results typically take 24–48 hours.
Stage 5: Emirates ID Application
You must complete biometric registration for your Emirates ID, which will link to your labour card.
Stage 6: Residence Visa Stamping
Immigration authorities stamp your residence visa in your passport.
Stage 7: Labour Card Issuance
Once the residence visa is issued, MoHRE finalizes your electronic labour card.
You can access it digitally via the MoHRE app or website.
Total Processing Time
From job offer to labour card issuance, the process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on documentation and compliance.
Documents Required
From Employee:
- Passport copy (6+ months validity)
- Passport-size photo
- Attested educational certificates
- Medical fitness certificate
- Signed contract
From Employer:
- Valid trade license
- Establishment card
- Employment contract
- Bank guarantee (mainland companies)
How to Check Labour Card Online
You can check your labour card through:
1. MoHRE Mobile App
- Log in using UAE Pass
- Select “Labour Card” under employee services
2. MoHRE Website
- Visit official MoHRE site
- Use “Print Electronic Work Permit” service
3. UAE Pass App
- Access digital documents section
4. Tas’heel Service Centers
- Visit in person for assistance
Labour Card Fees
Fees depend on the employer’s compliance category:
| Category | Compliance Level | 2-Year Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | High compliance | AED 250 |
| Category 2 | Moderate compliance | AED 1,200 |
| Category 3 | Low compliance | AED 3,450 |
Other fees may apply for replacement or modification.
Important: By law, the employer must pay all labour card fees.
Validity and Renewal
Validity:
- Private sector: 2 years
- Government: Up to 3 years
- Free zones: 1–3 years
Renewal Window:
50 days before expiry and 50 days after expiry.
Renewal must be initiated by the employer.
Late renewal may result in fines (AED 500).
Replacement of Lost or Damaged Labour Card
If lost or damaged:
- Report loss (if stolen)
- Employer applies for replacement
- Pay replacement fee (approx. AED 200)
- Receive new digital record
Labour Card Cancellation
When employment ends:
- Employer cancels labour card via MoHRE
- Employee signs final settlement
- Visa cancellation follows
Proper cancellation prevents future employment issues.
Mainland vs Free Zone Differences
| Mainland | Free Zone |
|---|---|
| Regulated by MoHRE | Regulated by Free Zone Authority |
| 2-year validity | 1–3 years |
| Work anywhere in UAE | Work within free zone (exceptions apply) |
Some zones like DIFC and ADGM operate under separate employment frameworks.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Working without permit | Fines, deportation |
| Hiring without permit | Employer fines |
| Late renewal | AED 500 fine |
| WPS violations | Permit suspension |
Your Employment Rights
A valid labour card ensures:
- Salary via WPS
- Annual leave
- Sick leave
- End-of-service gratuity
- Overtime pay
- Legal dispute protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work without a labour card?
No. It is illegal.
Who pays for the labour card?
The employer.
How long does it take?
Typically 2–4 weeks.
Is labour card the same as Emirates ID?
No. They serve different purposes.
What happens if it expires?
You cannot legally work until renewed.
Can I transfer jobs?
Yes, but the old card must be cancelled and a new one issued.
Key Takeaways
- Labour card = legal work permit
- Mandatory for all employees
- Digital record linked to Emirates ID
- Employer bears all costs
- Standard validity: 2 years
- Renewal required before expiry
- Cancellation mandatory upon job change
Final Thoughts
The labour card process in UAE is the foundation of legal employment. While employers manage the application, employees should understand each stage to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
Always verify your digital labour card details, track expiry dates, and ensure proper cancellation when changing jobs. For the most accurate information, consult your employer’s HR department or the official MoHRE portal.
Staying informed ensures a smooth and compliant career journey in the UAE.