Lost Your Labour Card in UAE: Your labour card in the UAE is an essential proof of your legal employment under the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE). Losing it can lead to confusion during labour inspections, visa renewals, or company transitions.
If you’ve lost your labour card in UAE, don’t panic. This 2025 guide will walk you through how to report, replace, and legally protect yourself while you wait for a new one.
Lost Your Labour Card in UAE Essential 2025 Guide
What Is a Labour Card?
Lost Your Labour Card in UAE: A labour card (also called work permit) contains your:
Name
Labour card number
Nationality
Employer name
Job title
Labour ID
MOHRE contract details
In 2025, most labour cards are digitally issued, but having a printed or soft copy is still common for inspections and records.
Why You Need to Replace It Quickly
Lost Your Labour Card in UAE: Losing your labour card could:
Cause issues during police or MOHRE checks
Delay your Emirates ID renewal
Complicate job transfer or visa processing
Lead to fines if you’re working without proper documentation
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace a Lost Labour Card in UAE (2025)
Step 1: Inform Your Employer Immediately
Notify your HR department or PRO (Public Relations Officer) as soon as you realize the card is missing. Employers handle all MOHRE-related processes and are responsible for labour card applications and replacements.
Step 2: File a Police Report (Optional but Advised)
Some companies may ask for a loss certificate from your local police station, especially if:
The card was stolen
You need official proof for HR or visa authorities
Visit the nearest Dubai Police or Abu Dhabi Police e-station or use their mobile apps.
Step 3: MOHRE Labour Card Replacement Request
Your employer will submit the application via:
MOHRE Portal – www.mohre.gov.ae
MOHRE App – Android/iOS
Tawjeeh Center – Walk-in services
Required Documents:
| Document | Source |
|---|---|
| Emirates ID Copy | Employee |
| Passport & Visa Copy | Employee |
| Passport Photo | Employee |
| Original Labour Contract | Employer |
| Police Report (if needed) | Police Dept. |
| Labour Card Number (if known) | HR Records |
Step 4: Pay the Replacement Fee
Replacement charges typically include:
Application typing: AED 50–100
Labour card replacement: AED 200–250
Courier or delivery fee (if printed copy required): AED 30–50
Payment is handled by the employer or through e-dirham/credit card online.
Step 5: Track Application & Receive Your Card
MOHRE sends notifications via:
SMS to your registered number
Email confirmation to your employer
Processing Time: 2–5 working days
You may receive:
A new digital card via email
Or a printable version from your employer or Tawjeeh center
FAQs About Lost Labour Card in UAE
Q: Is the labour card different from Emirates ID?
✅ Yes. Labour cards are issued by MOHRE and relate to employment. Emirates ID is a national identification card issued by ICP.
Q: Can I apply for a job without a labour card?
❌ No. A valid labour card is mandatory for legal employment in the private sector.
Q: What happens if the employer refuses to help?
You can file a labour complaint via MOHRE or contact a Tawjeeh center.
Q: Can I get a digital labour card copy?
✅ Yes. All MOHRE contracts and permits are now available via MOHRE mobile app or smart portal.
Penalties for Not Replacing a Lost Labour Card
Lost Your Labour Card in UAE: Failure to report and replace your lost card may result in:
| Violation | Penalty (AED) |
|---|---|
| Failure to report loss | Warning or fine |
| Working without valid labour card | AED 5,000 – 20,000 |
| Employer not updating MOHRE | AED 1,000 – 5,000 |
Note: Companies may also face labour inspection issues.
Tips to Avoid Labour Card Issues
Always keep soft copy saved in your phone
Email a copy to your personal inbox
Notify your employer immediately if lost or damaged
Double-check card validity during visa renewal
Mahad HRC Labour Support
Lost Your Labour Card in UAE: At Mahad HRC, we assist job seekers and workers with:
Labour card issuance and renewal
Lost or damaged card replacements
Filing complaints for employer non-cooperation
Translating documents for MOHRE application
Regular compliance checks for our partner companies
Need help replacing your lost card? We’re here to guide you from reporting to reissuance.
Conclusion
Lost Your Labour Card in UAE: Losing your labour card in the UAE may feel stressful, but it’s easily resolved if you follow the correct steps. Whether you’re in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or a free zone, quick reporting and cooperation with your HR team will ensure legal compliance and peace of mind.