If you are planning to work in the United Arab Emirates, you will frequently hear the term “labour card.” Understanding what it is and its role in your employment is essential.
So, what exactly is a UAE labour card?
Historically, the labour card was a physical plastic ID card issued to every employee by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). However, this has changed.
Today, the traditional physical labour card has been replaced. Your official proof of employment is now your digital Work Permit, and your Emirates ID card serves as your primary identification for all residency and employment purposes.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the modern UAE labour card and work permit system.
The Modern Labour Card: Your Digital Work Permit
Think of the “labour card” as the legal document that authorizes you to work in the UAE. This document is now officially called a Work Permit. It is issued electronically by MOHRE and contains all the critical information about your employment, including:
- Your full name and personal details
- The name of your employer (your sponsor)
- Your profession or job title
- The work permit (labour card) number
- The issuance and expiry dates of your permit
Your employer is legally responsible for applying for and securing your work permit on your behalf.
The Emirates ID: Your New All-in-One Card
With the move to digital systems, the Emirates ID card has effectively replaced the need for a separate physical labour card. Your Emirates ID, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship (ICP), is now the single most important card you will carry. It is electronically linked to your residency visa and your work permit, serving as your primary proof of both.
How a UAE Work Permit (Labour Card) is Obtained
You do not apply for your own work permit. The entire process is managed by your employer as soon as you accept a job offer. The typical steps are:
- Quota & Job Offer: The employer applies for a work visa quota and issues you an official MOHRE job offer letter.
- Entry Permit (Pink Visa): Once you sign the offer letter, the employer secures an entry permit for you to legally enter the UAE for work.
- Medical & Biometrics: After arriving, you must complete a medical fitness test and provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) for your Emirates ID.
- Contract & Permit Submission: Your employer submits your signed labour contract to MOHRE to formally issue your digital Work Permit.
- Visa Stamping & Emirates ID: Finally, your residency visa is stamped in your passport, and your official Emirates ID card is printed.
How to View Your Digital Labour Card / Work Permit
Even though you won’t receive a physical card, you can easily view your official work permit details anytime.
- The MOHRE App (Best Method):
- Download the ‘MOHRE’ app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log in securely using your UAE Pass.
- Once logged in, tap on your profile. You will see an option to “View Labour Card,” which will display your digital work permit with all its details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a labour card the same as a residence visa? A: No. A residence visa allows you to live legally in the UAE, while a work permit (labour card) allows you to work legally for a specific employer. You need both to be employed in the UAE.
Q: Who pays for the labour card/work permit? A: Your employer is legally required to cover all fees associated with your work permit, visa, and Emirates ID.
Q: What happens to my work permit if I change jobs? A: When you leave your job, your employer must cancel your current work permit. Your new employer will then apply for a new work permit under their company’s sponsorship.
Conclusion
In summary, the “labour card” is the old term for what is now an electronic Work Permit issued by MOHRE. You will not receive a separate physical card for it anymore. Your Emirates ID card is now the primary document that serves as your proof of identity, residency, and right to work in the UAE.