How To Check Work Permit Status – MOHRE Enquiry
How To Check Work Permit Status. If you’re working in the UAE or planning to join a company soon, it’s essential to know how to check your work permit status. The work permit is one of the most important legal documents issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) for expats who wish to work in the country.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to check your work permit status online.
What is a UAE Work Permit?
A UAE work permit is an official document issued by the MoHRE that allows a foreign national to work legally in the country under a registered UAE employer. Once approved, it is followed by a residency visa and the Emirates ID.
Without a valid work permit, you cannot legally work in the UAE. Your permit also determines the status of your employment, your labour rights, and your legal protection as a foreign worker.
Types of Work Permit Status
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Under Process | Your employer has submitted the request. Awaiting MOHRE approval. |
| Approved | Your work permit is granted. You can now proceed with residency visa procedures. |
| Rejected | MOHRE declined the application. The reason will be listed. |
| Cancelled | Your permit is no longer active—usually due to job change or contract termination. |
| On Hold | Temporarily paused due to missing documents or verification issues. |
Understanding your work permit application status ensures you’re compliant with UAE labour laws.
Why It’s Important to Check Work Permit Status?
Checking your work permit status ensures that:
- Your employer has applied for and obtained the necessary approvals.
- You are not a victim of visa fraud or illegal employment.
- Your residency process (including Emirates ID) can proceed smoothly.
- You are eligible for employment rights and MoHRE services.
Documents Required to Check Work Permit Status
To perform a work permit enquiry in the UAE, you may need the following:
- Work Permit Number (or Labour Card Number)
- Passport number
- Emirates ID (optional)
- Application Reference Number (if newly applied)
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Employment Offer Letter
- Academic and Professional Certificates
- Medical Fitness Certificate
- Entry Permit (if outside UAE)
How to Check Work Permit Status Online
Here is a detailed guide on how to check your work permit status through the official MoHRE website:
Step 1: Visit the MoHRE Official Website
- Go to: https://www.mohre.gov.ae
- You can choose your preferred language: Arabic or English.
Step 2: Access the Enquiry Services
- Click on “Services” from the top menu.
- Under the list of services, click on “Enquiry Services”.
Step 3: Select the Work Permit Inquiry Option
- Scroll through the enquiry list and select “Work Permit Information Service”.
- This will direct you to the work permit inquiry form.
Step 4: Enter Your Work Permit Details
You’ll need the following details:
- Work Permit Number (printed on your job offer or application)
- Transaction Number (if available)
- Passport Number (optional, but helpful)
Step 5: View Your Work Permit Status
After entering the required information:
- Click “Submit”.
- You will now see:
- Your company information
- Your work permit details
- The current status of your work permit (e.g., Approved, Pending, Cancelled)
Work Permit Status Codes and Their Meanings
| Status Code | Meaning | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Pending Approval | Application submitted but not yet approved | Wait for employer or MoHRE review |
| Approved | Work permit is granted and valid | Proceed with medical and residency |
| Under Processing | Application is being processed by MoHRE | Monitor status regularly |
| Cancelled | Work permit was cancelled by employer or MoHRE | Contact employer or MoHRE |
| Rejected | Application was denied | Review reasons and reapply |
How to Check Work Permit Status Using MOHRE Mobile App
The MOHRE App, available on both Android and iOS, is another convenient way to track your work permit status on the go.
- Download the MOHRE app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Log in using your UAE Pass or registered account.
- Navigate to “Services” > “My Work Permit”.
- Enter your permit number or Emirates ID.
- View the status and other related work permit information.
The app is available in English, Arabic, and Urdu, making it accessible for a diverse workforce.
Alternative Methods to Check Work Permit Status
Besides the official website, there are other methods to check your work permit status in the UAE:
Check Work Permit Status on GDRFA Portal
If your employment is based in Dubai, the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) is responsible for processing work permits.
- Go to the official GDRFA Dubai portal: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Select eServices > Application Status.
- Input your application or reference number.
- Submit and view the approval or pending status.
Check Work Permit Through ICP Smart Services
If your work permit is linked with your Emirates ID or residency visa, you can check it via the ICP portal.
- Visit ICP Portal: Navigate to https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- Click on “File Validity” Under Public Services, choose “File Validity” or directly visit this page
- Enter Personal Information
- Emirates ID Number (or)
- Passport Number and Nationality
- Submit and View Status The system will show your residency file status, including:
- Permit validity
- Expiry date
- Current visa/work permit status
MoHRE Call Center
- Dial 800 60 from any UAE number.
- Provide your permit or passport number to the customer service agent.
TASHEEL Centers
- Visit the nearest TASHEEL Service Center.
- Submit your work permit number for a quick status check.
What Information Will You See in the Work Permit Inquiry?
Once you complete the work permit status check, here are the types of information you’ll be able to view:
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Number | Unique ID assigned by MoHRE |
| Applicant Name | Your full name as registered |
| Nationality | Country of origin |
| Company Name | Name of sponsoring company |
| Company License Number | Registered trade license ID |
| Permit Type | Regular, temporary, part-time, etc. |
| Application Status | Pending, Approved, Cancelled, Rejected |
| Issue Date | Date of permit issuance |
| Expiry Date | Validity period of the work permit |
Common Issues While Checking Work Permit Status
If you face difficulties when checking your status online, here are possible issues and solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Invalid permit number | Double check your work permit number with employer |
| MoHRE system downtime | Try again after some time |
| Language barrier | Use Google Translate or switch language to English/Arabic |
| Status not updated | Wait 24–48 hours after submission |
| Website not loading properly | Clear browser cache or try a different device |
Useful Tips When Checking Work Permit Status
- Always keep a digital and printed copy of your work permit number.
- Avoid using public networks when checking personal information.
- If status is “cancelled” or “rejected”, speak to your HR department or MoHRE immediately.
- Use the UAE PASS for easier login and quicker services across all government portals.
Importance of Validating Your Work Permit in UAE
Ensuring that your work permit is valid is your right and your responsibility. An expired or cancelled permit can result in:
- Deportation
- Overstay fines
- Inability to apply for Emirates ID or medical exam
- Loss of legal protection
Final Checklist Before Checking UAE Work Permit Status
- You have your work permit number.
- You know whether your company is in mainland or free zone.
- You have stable internet or MOHRE app access.
- Your employer has confirmed the submission of application.
MoHRE Contact Details
| Service | Contact Info |
|---|---|
| MoHRE Official Website | https://www.mohre.gov.ae |
| Call Center | 800 60 (within UAE) |
| WhatsApp Support | Available through MoHRE enquiry website |
| MoHRE Email | [email protected] |
FAQs About How To Check Work Permit Status
How long does it take to get a UAE work permit?
Ans: Once submitted, the work permit approval usually takes between 3 to 7 working days, depending on the employer and MoHRE processing time.
Can I work in the UAE without a work permit?
Ans: No. It is illegal to work without a valid work permit. This could lead to fines, deportation, and legal penalties for both the employer and the employee.
What should I do if my work permit is rejected or cancelled?
Ans: If your work permit is rejected or cancelled, consult with your employer or approach MoHRE to understand the reason. You may be eligible to reapply or correct missing documentation.
Conclusion
Checking your work permit status in the UAE is simple, secure, and necessary. With the digital services provided by MoHRE, you can track the progress of your employment process in real-time. Always verify your documents, stay updated with the status, and contact authorities immediately in case of discrepancies.
