What the work permit is
The work permit (often called the labour card) authorises an employee to work for a company in the UAE private sector. It is separate from the residence visa, which is issued by GDRFA in Dubai or ICP in the other emirates, and from the employment contract.
Work permit fees
The official range is AED 250 to AED 3,450 for issuance or renewal, and the amount depends on the permit type and on how MOHRE classifies the company. MOHRE does not publish one flat price for everyone, so check the fee on the MOHRE app or ask at a MOHRE business service centres before paying. Business centres can also add their service charge.
Renewal and cancellation
- Renewal: meet the issuance requirements again, provide the documents and qualifications requested and pay according to the permit type and company classification.
- Cancellation: submit a formal cancellation request, complete the data and attachments, settle any late issuance or non-renewal fines, and the company confirms that the worker received all dues.
- After cancellation: the residence visa is cancelled separately with GDRFA or ICP. See visa cancellation in Dubai or residency through ICP.
Check your work permit
MOHRE’s public inquiry website shows electronic work permit information and lets you print it. You can also follow applications on the MOHRE app.
This is an independent guide, not a government website. Fees are copied from the official service pages; the final amount is the one shown when you pay on the MOHRE app or at the business service centre.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a work permit in the UAE?
The UAE government portal gives a range of AED 250 to AED 3,450 for issuance or renewal, depending on the company classification. Check your exact fee on the MOHRE app.
Where can I renew my labour card?
On the MOHRE app or website, or at a MOHRE-approved business service centre (Tasheel).
Do I cancel the work permit or the visa first?
For private-sector employees the MOHRE work permit is cancelled first; the residence is then cancelled with GDRFA or ICP.
Related guides
Find a centre
Official sources: u.ae – work permits in the private sector · MOHRE – services · MOHRE – inquiry service. Checked on 29 October 2026. This guide does not replace official information.