The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a thrilling living and working experience worth exploring. Still, it comes with a series of regulations and requirements, one of the most fundamental being the UAE Labor Card.
In this guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of the UAE Labor Card, covering what it is, its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, and how to check and download it online.
The UAE Labor Card is your professional ID in the Emirates, issued by free zones or MoHRE, containing vital details:
Beyond its role as a mere identification card, the Labor Card is the linchpin for accessing a range of work-related benefits:
Regardless of sector or nationality, holding a labor card is a fundamental requirement if you’re working in the private or public domain. To be eligible, you must be:
Employers have to ensure timely issuance within 60 days of the employee’s arrival to avoid potential fines.
Securing a UAE labor card involves navigating a structured application process, which begins with obtaining a work permit. Foreign workers also require a residency visa, a work permit prerequisite. The application process includes:
You must ensure that all documentation is in order, and the process varies for free zones and the mainland.
Staying informed about your labor card details is a seamless process in the digital age.
Two user-friendly methods include using the official MoHRE app and visiting a Tas’heel service center.
The UAE authorities have ceased providing physical copies of labor cards. If you prefer a physical copy, you need to download and print it. The steps are straightforward:
The cost of issuing and renewing a work permit varies between AED 250 and AED 3,450, depending on the company. The UAE labor card is typically valid for two years, except for government employees whose cards are valid for three years. Renewal is possible for the same duration if both parties agree, and it should be done within 50 days of expiration.
Failure to apply for a new labor card within 60 days of entry to the UAE could result in a fine of AED 500. Working without a permit may incur further penalties. To check any fines on your labor card, visit the MoHRE website, where you can use the ‘Fine Calculator’ during ‘Choose A Service’ by entering your card number.
The renewal process must be initiated within 50 days from its expiry date. Tas’heel centers can help with the renewal process. To find out the status of your application, you can visit the official government website and enter the IN number from the receipt. This should give you the latest updates on your application. The new card is typically issued within ten days once the application is processed and renewal is granted.
Modifying the labor card is also a straightforward process at the Tas’heel center. You need to provide valid documents and information on the reasons for the change. You may require a letter of approval from the relevant government agencies if the modification involves changing the employee’s job, particularly for medical or academic roles.
Whether navigating the application process for the first time or renewing your card as a seasoned expatriate, understanding these comprehensive aspects empowers you to navigate the UAE’s professional landscape confidently. The UAE labor card is indispensable from accessing benefits to ensuring compliance with employment regulations.
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