UAE Labour Card: What It Is, How It Works, and How to Check It Online
Most people only think about their labour card when a problem appears salary gets delayed, records don’t match, or a service request is rejected. Small errors can quickly create bigger issues. This page explains what a UAE labour card is, why it matters, how to check it online, and how to avoid problems before it expires.
Under the UAE Labour Law, correct employment records are mandatory. Your labour card shows your official job details and confirms that your work status is properly registered. Keeping it accurate and valid helps protect your rights, ensures smooth salary processing, and reduces the risk of penalties or disputes. This guide gives you clear information so you can stay informed and compliant throughout your employment.
What Is a UAE Labour Card?
A UAE labour card is an official work authorisation issued for private-sector employees, confirming legal employment under UAE labour law. It links the employee to the employer, job role, and contract, and is required for payroll processing, labour compliance, and access to government employment services.
Why the UAE Labour Card Matters
The labour card is the foundation of legal employment in the UAE.
- It confirms you’re authorised to work under UAE labour law.
- It links your job to official payroll and employment records.
- It allows government systems to validate your employment status.
- It keeps both employee and employer compliant with MOHRE rules.
Without it, employment isn’t recognised as lawful.
Who Issues the UAE Labour Card
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) issues labour cards for mainland private-sector companies.
- Free zones issue work permits internally under their own authority.
- The employer is responsible for initiating and maintaining the labour card.
The issuing authority depends on where you work.
Employees don’t apply on their own
Who Needs a UAE Labour Card
A labour card is required if you fall into these categories:
- Private-sector employees
- Expat workers employed in the UAE
- Employer-sponsored roles
- UAE-based employment contracts only
It doesn’t apply to visitors or short-term non-employment stays.
Details Shown on a UAE Labour Card
A labour card records key employment information:
- Employee name
- Job title
- Nationality
- Work permit number
- Labour card expiry date
- Employer name
How to Check UAE Labour Card Status Online
You can check labour card status digitally.
Visit MOHRE website
Visit MOHRE services, open enquiry tools, and search using work permit or personal details.
MOHRE Mobile App
Log in using UAE Pass. Your employment record appears under your profile.
Use the UAE Pass App
Sign in, access linked government services, and view labour card information where available.
No physical card is required.
UAE Labour Card Validity and Expiry Rules
Labour cards have a fixed validity period.
Most private-sector cards are issued for a limited term tied to the employment contract. Once expired, the card loses legal effect. An expired card can block payroll processing, contract services, and employment verification.
Timely renewal avoids compliance issues.
How UAE Labour Card Renewal Works
Renewal is handled by the employer.
The employer submits renewal before or shortly after expiry. Delays can cause temporary suspension of employment records. Continued work on an expired card can lead to penalties or service blocks.
Employees should confirm renewal status early.
Common UAE Labour Card Problems
These issues come up often:
- Labour card expired without renewal
- Incorrect job title or personal details
- Employer delay in processing
- Card status not showing in systems
Most problems are resolved through employer action or MOHRE support.
FAQs on UAE Labour Card
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