Work Permit (Labour Card) Dubai — MOHRE Employment Authorisation

Yes — they are the same MOHRE record. "Work permit" is the official legal term for the employment authorisation; "labour card" is the traditional, common name for it. The electronic work permit replaced the old physical labour card, so today one document covers both names. "New work permit," "renewal," and "modification" are simply stages in the life of that same record.

Typing and submission take the same day. MOHRE approval typically takes 2–5 business days. Total time from application to entry permit issuance is usually 3–7 business days.

Your employer needs: active MOHRE establishment file, valid trade licence, establishment card, available quota, and the employee's passport copy and photo. The offer letter is typed through Tasheel.

Yes. Since the 2021 labour law reforms, employees can transfer their work permit to a new employer after their contract ends or with the current employer's agreement. The new employer applies for a transfer work permit through MOHRE.

GCC nationals (from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman) have a simplified work permit process with lower fees and fewer requirements. They do not need entry permits or visa stamping.

If rejected, MOHRE provides a reason. Common reasons include incorrect documents, company quota issues, or profession mismatch. We review the rejection reason and advise on next steps — most cases can be resolved and resubmitted.

Category 2 covers skilled and semi-skilled workers (lower government fees). Category 3 covers domestic workers and certain manual-labour roles (higher government fees). MOHRE assigns your category based on the job classification.

Yes. Modifications include profession change, salary adjustment, and employer details update. Each modification is a new application through Tasheel with supporting documents.

For renewal you need: valid passport, current work permit (labour card), renewed trade licence, and updated employment contract. Medical fitness may be required depending on your profession category. Start renewal at least 30 days before expiry to avoid MOHRE late penalties.

Yes. You can check the status through the MOHRE website or mobile app using your passport number or application reference number.