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How to renew a labour card in the UAE

In the UAE, the labour card is vital for expatriate workers in the private sector, serving as both proof of legal employment and confirmation of the right to work under local laws. It ensures that employers adhere to labour regulations and provides workers with essential legal protections.

Timely renewal of the labour card is crucial to maintain uninterrupted legal employment status. Neglecting this can lead to penalties for both employers and employees and may complicate the residency status of the workers.

This article aims to simplify the renewal process by providing a clear, step-by-step guide to renewing a labour card in the UAE, covering everything from the necessary documents to potential pitfalls, ensuring the procedure is as smooth and efficient as possible.

Legal framework and requirements

The labour card is a key part of the UAE employment landscape. It’s issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and serves as official documentation of an individual’s employment status.

It ensures that both employers and employees adhere the country’s labour laws and acts as a vital reference in resolving any employment-related disputes, providing a clear record of the employee’s work history, job title, and other important details.

For the renewal of a labour card, several key documents are required:

  • Completed application form (Available online through the MOHRE portal or at typing centres).
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Valid passport copy (At least six months’ validity).
  • Valid residence visa copy
  • Valid Emirates ID (Or proof of application for renewal if the ID is also expiring).
  • Current labour card
  • Trade licence copy
  • Medical fitness certificate (For certain categories of employees, a new medical fitness certificate may be required, confirming that the employee is medically fit to work).
  • Sponsor/employer’s NOC

Renewal process

The MoHRE generally allows for renewal of the labour card up to 60 days before its expiry date so you should initiate the process within this timeframe to ensure you have sufficient time to prepare all the necessary documents and address any issues that may arise. Once approved, the new labour card should arrive within ten days.

You can monitor the status of your labour card renewal through the MOHRE’s online portal by entering the IN number from your application receipt.

If you need to update details on your labour card, such as a change in job title or personal information, you can do so at a Tas’heel centre. Make sure to have all necessary documents on hand, including any government approval letters required for specific professions like those in the medical or academic sectors.

The following is an overview of the process:

  1. Application submission You can either submit the application online through the MOHRE portal or visit a Tas’heel service centre. The online portal offers a user-friendly interface where you can enter required details and upload necessary documents. Alternatively, typing centres provide hands-on assistance for completing and submitting your application.
  2. Fee payment Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to pay the renewal fee. The fee structure for labour card renewal varies depending on the employee’s nationality, the type of contract, and the category of the company under the Ministry’s classification. Payments can typically be made online through the MOHRE portal or directly at the typing centre.
  3. Medical testing For certain categories of employees, updated medical tests may be required as part of the renewal process. This usually involves visiting a government-approved health centre where you’ll undergo basic health screenings. Ensure you carry identification and any required health forms provided by your employer or the typing centre.
  4. Document submission and verification After your application and payments are submitted, and medical tests (if required) are completed, you will need to submit all supporting documents for verification.
  5. Receiving the renewed labour card Once all steps are completed and your application is approved, your renewed labour card will be issued. You can usually collect the card from the typing centre or alternatively, it may be mailed to your employer’s address. Some regions may offer an electronic version of the card, which can be downloaded through the MOHRE portal.

Common issues and troubleshooting

Renewing a labour card in the UAE is typically straightforward, but occasionally, challenges such as document mismatches, processing delays or loss of an existing labour card can arise. Here are some tips to address these issues effectively:

  • Document mismatches: Double-check all documents for accuracy before submission. Ensure that names, dates, and other personal information exactly match those on your official documents like your passport and existing labour card. If discrepancies are discovered, correct them with the issuing body before resubmitting.
  • Delays in processing: High demand or system errors can occasionally cause processing delays. To mitigate this, submit your renewal application well in advance of the expiry date. If delays persist, follow up through the MOHRE portal using your application reference number to check the status.
  • Lost or damaged labour card: If you need to replace a lost or damaged labour card in the UAE, start by filling out the appropriate form at the Ministry of Labour office. Ensure your employer’s establishments are registered according to ministry guidelines. If the card is lost, you’ll need a lost item certificate from the police as well as a copy of the employer’s signature card, a copy of your passport, a recent photograph, and if the card is lost, a lost-item certificate approved by the Labour Inspection Department. If you’re replacing a damaged card, bring the damaged card itself. The replacement fees vary by employer category: Dh500 for Category A, Dh1,500 for Category B, and Dh2,500 for Category C.

How can Global Link help?

Global Link has over 16 years’ experience working with local and global businesses, providing bespoke consultancy services for company incorporation in Dubai and the wider UAE.

Renewing a labour card in the UAE can pose challenges without an understanding of local regulations and direct liaisons with government authorities. At Global Link, we simplify this process for you, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and facilitating seamless communication with government departments.

At Global Link, we guide you through the complexities of this process, ensuring that your documentation is correctly prepared and submitted on time.

If you need advice on this or any other company incorporation, visa or PRO service, please get in touch with us on +971 4 553 9901 or email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you.