Working in the UAE? Good call, it’s a fast lane for careers, but there’s one small thing you always need on hand: your UAE Labour Card. Think of it as proof that you’re legally employed here. No card, no legal work, and a lot of hassle. Below we’ll walk you through the application process and required documents, how to check or download your UAE Labour Card online, the fees you can expect, and why the card matters in plain, usable language.
What is the UAE Labour Card and why should you care?
The labour card is an official record issued under the UAE’s labour system (MOHRE). It lists basic but crucial facts: your name, nationality, job title, employer details and the all-important UAE labour card number. Employers usually handle the formalities, but knowing the steps keeps you in control and speeds things up when paperwork goes sideways.
Applying for a labour card: step-by-step (simple)
Here’s how most employers and employees go about applying for a labor card in the UAE:
- Job offer & contract approval
Your employer uploads and gets your employment contract approved with MOHRE. That’s the foundation, no approved contract, no card. - Entry permit and medical fitness test
If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll need an entry permit and the mandatory medical test. Pass the tests, and you move to the next stage. - Documents your employer will submit
Typical list (copy/certified where required): passport copy, passport photos, entry permit or residence visa copy, your educational certificates (if the role requires them), and the approved employment contract. - Fee payment and issuance
Once documents are verified, the employer pays UAE Labor Card fees and the labour card gets issued. These days it’s common to get a digital card accessible online or via UAE Pass.
If you want the “what to sign” copy, always read your contract before it’s submitted. Don’t sign away fees or responsibilities that are employer obligations.
How to check or download your UAE Labour Card online
No long queues. Two usual routes:
- MOHRE portal or app: log in with your UAE Pass (or employer credentials) and look under employment records. Your UAE labor card number and contract details will appear there.
- UAE Pass: a one-stop digital ID. Many people keep a PDF or screenshot of their labour card on their phone for quick proof.
Tip: save a PDF and a screenshot, some places still ask for printed copies.
UAE Labour Card fees: what to expect
Fees vary. Factors include the company’s classification, your job level, and permit length. Typical ranges many employers report are from a few hundred AED to over a thousand AED depending on the package and services. Legally, your employer should pay these fees — they can’t just take them out of your salary without agreement.
If you ever get a bill from HR asking you to pay unexpectedly, ask for the regulation reference and, if needed, flag it with MOHRE.
What are the real benefits of having a labour card?
It’s more than bureaucracy. Your labour card provides:
- Legal right to work: that’s the headline.
- Clarity and proof of your job title, salary (where listed) and employer info.
- Access to related services like Emirates ID setup, insurance, and official applications.
- Worker protections: recorded contracts make disputes easier to resolve through MOHRE channels.
Short version: it’s your employment identity in the Emirates. Keep it safe.
Common problems and quick fixes
- Delay in issuance: ask HR for the MOHRE tracking number and check online.
- Wrong job title or spelling: get an amended contract and ask HR to resubmit.
- Card shows expired after visa renewal: that’s an administrative mismatch — push HR to reconcile records with MOHRE (and keep screenshots).
Final checklist before you travel or start work
- Contract approved by MOHRE?
- Entry permit & medical test clear?
- Employer paid labour card fees (or confirmed they will)?
- Downloaded a copy of your UAE Labour Card and saved your UAE labor card number?
Final words
The UAE labour card isn’t flashy, but it’s the document you’ll be asked for more than once. Keep a clean digital copy, double-check the details, and if HR drags its feet — be ready to follow up.
