A UAE labour card is a mandatory document that proves your legal employment in the United Arab Emirates. Whether you're working in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Umm Al Quwain, understanding how to check your labour card and retrieve your labour card number is essential for living and working legally in the UAE. This comprehensive guide explains everything step by step, including how to check your UAE labour card online, find your labour card number, and stay compliant with national regulations.
What Is a UAE Labour Card?
A labour card in the UAE is an official employment record issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The Government body oversees labour regulations and workforce compliance across the UAE.
It serves as proof that a worker is legally employed and authorized to work for a specific employer in the country. The labour card is connected to the employee's work permit and residence visa and includes essential employment information such as job title, employer details, and permit status.
Why the Labour Card Matters
Your labour card is more than a number on paper or a digital file. It directly impacts several aspects of your professional life in the UAE, including:
- Your legal employment status
- Salary processing and employment records
- Visa renewals and Emirates ID updates
- Access to labour law protections and dispute resolution
If you do not have a valid labour card, you are technically not registered to work in the UAE. This can lead to fines, employment disputes, or visa related issues.
UAE Labour Card: Key Terms Explained
- UAE Labour Card: A digital record of your work permit displayed through MoHRE systems
- Work Permit Number: A reference number linked to your employment approval
- Visa and Emirates ID: These confirm residency, while the labour card verifies employment
In most cases, the terms labour card number and work permit number are used interchangeably in UAE employment systems.
How to Get Your Labour Card Number in the UAE
1. Labour Card Check Online UAE via the MoHRE Website
You can check your labour card online through the official MoHRE enquiry portal:
- Visit the MoHRE enquiry portal
- Select "Print Electronic Work Permit (Labour Card)"
- Enter your work permit number, transaction number, and date of birth
- Click Search to view and download your labour card
This is the most commonly used method if you already have reference details from your employer.
2. Using the MoHRE Mobile App
The MoHRE UAE app is available on Android and iOS and allows you to access your labour card digitally:
- Download the MoHRE app
- Log in using UAE Pass
- Navigate to the Employee section
- View your labour card details and labour card number
This method is often the easiest way to check a UAE labour card online without a work permit number.
3. Contact MoHRE Hotline
If online access is unavailable or your details are not showing, you can:
- Call MoHRE customer service at 600 590 000
- Provide your Emirates ID for verification
- Request assistance with your labour card number and status
4. Visit a Tasheel Service Centre
Tasheel centres are authorized service centers across the UAE that can help you:
- Retrieve your labour card number
- Print your electronic work permit
- Assist with renewals or corrections
You only need your passport or Emirates ID when visiting.
Step-by-Step: Labour Card Check Online UAE
- Step 1: Visit the MoHRE website and go to Services, then Enquiry Services
- Step 2: Select "Print Electronic Work Permit"
- Step 3: Enter your work permit number, date of birth, and transaction code
- Step 4: Click Search to view your UAE labour card details
Who Handles Your Labour Card
Your employer or HR department is responsible for applying for your labour card. The process usually starts after job offer acceptance, work permit submission, medical fitness tests, and Emirates ID application.
Once approved, MoHRE typically issues the labour card within one to two weeks.
Timeline and Important Deadlines
- Employers must apply within 60 days of your entry into the UAE
- Most labour cards are valid for two years in the private sector
- Regular online checks help avoid renewal delays
Why You Must Do a UAE Labour Card Check Online Regularly
- Confirm correct job title and employer details
- Verify details before visa or Emirates ID renewal
- Avoid fines or compliance issues
- Ensure accurate employment records
Common Issues During Labour Card Check
No Record Found: This may occur if the application is still processing, incorrect details were entered, or MoHRE systems have not synced.
Incorrect Details: If your name or job title is incorrect, request your employer to update the MoHRE records.
Technical Errors: Temporary website or app issues may occur. Trying again later usually resolves the issue.
Free Zone Employees and Labour Cards
Employees working in free zones may receive a different employment card issued by the respective free zone authority. Some of these integrate with MoHRE systems.
Always confirm with your HR department if your labour card does not appear online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UAE labour card?
It is an employment
document issued by MoHRE that confirms your legal right to work in
the UAE.
How can I get my labour card number if I do not know
it?
You can use the MoHRE app or website with your
Emirates ID, passport number, or transaction reference.
Is the UAE labour card check online free?
Yes,
MoHRE online services are free to use.
Can I work without a labour card in the UAE?
No.
Working without a valid labour card violates UAE labour law.
How long does it take to get a labour card?
It
usually takes a few days to two weeks after submission.
Conclusion: Why the UAE Labour Card Check Online Is Essential
A valid UAE labour card and accurate labour card number are essential for legal employment, visa processing, and employee rights protection in the UAE.
Regularly checking your labour card online helps ensure compliance and avoids unnecessary complications. While securing your labour card protects your employment status, protecting your everyday life is just as important.
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