Check Work Permit Status in UAE – Official MoHRE Enquiry Guide

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the fastest-growing business hubs in the world, attracting global talent across industries. Whether you are an expatriate looking to work in the UAE or an employer planning to hire foreign talent, understanding the UAE work permit system is essential. Managed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), work permits regulate employment, ensure compliance with labor laws, and safeguard both employers and employees.

This comprehensive guide explains the types of work permits, eligibility requirements, application process, costs, and common challenges faced by employers and employees in 2025. Also Read More MOHRE Enquiry UAE

A MOHRE work permit is your official authorization to work for a UAE employer outside Free Zones. It is:

Key points:

• Employer-linked: Your sponsor (employer) applies on your behalf.
• Validity: Usually 1–2 years, renewable.
• Legal protection: Confirms your right to work and protects your labor rights.

Without a valid work permit, you cannot work legally, and your residency and benefits may be affected.

Regular verification helps you:

• Confirm your employer submitted your application to MoHRE.
• Avoid illegal employment and fines.
• Track approval for residency visas and Emirates ID.
• Stay informed about your labor rights in the UAE.
• Prepare for job changes or renewals without delays.

Employers registered with MoHRE are responsible for sponsoring foreign employees and ensuring compliance with UAE labor laws.

The UAE offers 12 types of work permits catering to different employment scenarios:

• Standard Employment Permit: Full-time employment with a UAE-based company
• Temporary Work Permit: Short-term projects, usually up to 6 months
• One-Mission Work Permit: Task-specific assignments for a limited period
• Part-Time Work Permit: For employees working fewer hours or days
• Juvenile & Student Training Permits: For ages 15–18 to gain work experience
• Freelance Permit: Self-sponsored professionals providing services independently
• Golden & Green Visa Work Permits: Long-term visas for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals
• Family-Sponsored Resident Permit: Allows family visa holders to work legally
• National Trainee Permit: Training UAE nationals for skill development
• Private Teacher Permit: Authorization to provide private tuition; valid for 2 years

Each permit has specific eligibility criteria, ensuring compliance with MoHRE regulations and UAE labor law.

Status	Meaning	What to Do
Pending	Application submitted but not yet processed	Wait and monitor updates
Under Processing	MoHRE is reviewing the application	Check regularly
Approved	Permit granted	Start residency and medical procedures
Cancelled	Permit withdrawn	Contact the employer or MoHRE immediately
Rejected	Application denied	Identify the reason and reapply

While MOHRE processes cannot be rushed, delays can be avoided by:

• Submit complete and accurate documentation.
• Avoiding duplicate applications.
• Using professional PRO services to ensure pre-check and submission.

Before you check your work permit, have these ready:

Eligibility Criteria

• Age 18+, except for student or juvenile permits
• Valid job offer from a MoHRE-registered company
• Profession aligned with the employer’s trade license
• Passing the mandatory medical fitness test

Required Documents

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Passport-sized photograph with a white background
• Academic and professional certificates attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Employment contract or offer letter
• Professional license (for regulated sectors such as healthcare, education, or finance)
• No-objection certificate (NOC) from the current employer (if applicable)

1- Fees (AED)

• Temporary, Part-Time, Event, or Training Permit: 50 AED
• Standard 2-Year Permit: 250–3,450 AED (based on company compliance category)
• Amendments or Transfers: 50 AED

2- Renewal

Work permits can be renewed following the same application process. Employers must ensure compliance with UAE labor laws to avoid fines or delays.

3- Permit Validity

• Standard work permits: 1–2 years
• Golden and Green visa permits: 5–10 years

1. Job Offer & Contract: Employer issues a formal offer letter and employment contract
2. Pre-Approval & Entry Visa: MoHRE approves the employee for entry into the UAE
3. Medical Screening: Employee undergoes mandatory medical fitness tests
4. Residency & Emirates ID: Employer submits documents for visa stamping and Emirates ID issuance
5. Final Work Permit: Once all formalities are complete, the work permit is activated

1- Using the Official MoHRE Website

• Go to the MoHRE website.
• Navigate to Services → Enquiry Services.
• Select Work Permit Information Service.
• Please Enter your Work Permit Number, Passport Number, and Transaction Number
• Click Submit to view:
  • Employer details
  • Permit information
  • Status (Approved, Pending, Cancelled, Rejected)

2- Using the MOHRE Mobile App

• Download the MoHRE UAE App on Android or iOS.
• Log in with UAE Pass or your registered account.
• Go to Services → My Work Permit.
• Enter your permit number or Emirates ID.
• The app shows status in real-time and supports English, Arabic, and Urdu.

3- Visiting Tasheel or Customer Happiness Centres

• Tasheel Centers: Bring your Work Permit Number or Emirates ID. Staff can provide your status.
• MoHRE Customer Happiness Centers: Available for assistance and verification.

4- Alternative Portals

• GDRFA Dubai Portal: For Dubai-based permits: gdrfad.gov.ae.
• ICP Smart Services: For permits linked to residency or Emirates ID: smartservices.icp.gov.ae.
• MoHRE Call Center: Dial 80060 from the UAE.
• Email Support: ask@mohre.gov.ae

Issue	Solution
Wrong permit number	Confirm with your employer
Status not updated	Wait 24–48 hours and check again
Website down	Retry later or use the app
Unexpected cancellation	Contact the employer/MoHRE immediately
Website not loading properly	Clear browser cache or try another device

If you don’t have your work permit or labour card number:

• Use your Emirates ID in the MOHRE system or the ICP portal.
• This retrieves your work permit information directly.
• Ensures you don’t need to wait for employer updates.

• Valid up to 3 months for short-term or urgent assignments.
• Check status using the same MOHRE methods.
• Requires the application number provided by your employer.

Field	Details
Work Permit Number	Unique ID assigned by MOHRE
Applicant Name	Your full name
Nationality	Country of origin
Company Name	Sponsor company
Company License Number	Trade license ID
Permit Type	Regular, temporary, part-time
Application Status	Pending, Approved, Cancelled, Rejected
Issue Date	Permit issuance
Expiry Date	Permit validity

• It’s important to keep a digital copy as well as a printed one of your permit.
• Avoid checking on public networks.
• Set reminders before permit expiry.
• Confirm status updates with your HR or PRO.
• Use UAE Pass for faster login across government portals.

Checking your work permit regularly ensures:

• Legal protection: Avoid unauthorized employment penalties.
• Avoid fines: If permits are expired or cancelled, they can result in fines or deportation.
• Smooth residency renewal: The validity of your permit is associated with your Emirates ID and visa.

• You have your Work Permit Number.
• You understand whether your organization is located in the mainland or a free zone.
• You have stable internet or MOHRE app access.
• Your employer has verified that your application has been submitted.

• Official Website: https://www.mohre.gov.ae
• Call Center: 800 60 (within UAE)
• Email: ask@mohre.gov.ae
• WhatsApp Support: Available via the MoHRE enquiry website

Checking your work permit status in the UAE is straightforward and crucial. Whether through the MoHRE website, app, or service centers, staying updated protects your legal rights, ensures smooth residency processes, and avoids fines. Keep your documents ready, monitor your status, and consult MoHRE if discrepancies appear.