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Starting a business in the UAE is an exciting step, but it comes with a checklist of formalities that need to be completed before you’re fully up and running. One of the most important among them is often ignored until the hiring phase: the Establishment Card in the UAE. Whether you're setting up in a free zone or on the mainland, this document is essential if you plan to sponsor employees and handle immigration tasks under your company name.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what the Establishment Card UAE is, why it’s important, and how to apply for it step by step.
The Establishment Card, also known as the Company Immigration Card, is issued by the UAE immigration authorities: either the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) in other Emirates.
This card connects your company to the UAE’s immigration system and allows you to:
Without this card, a business cannot legally hire or sponsor employees in the UAE. For companies in Dubai, the document is commonly referred to as the Establishment Card Dubai.
To start the application process for your Establishment Card UAE, make sure you’ve collected all the necessary documents listed below:
Requirements may vary slightly based on whether your company is in a free zone or mainland jurisdiction.
Make sure your company’s trade license is valid and all business setup formalities are complete. The Establishment Card UAE can only be applied for after this step.
Arrange the documents listed above. Any missing document may delay the process or lead to rejection.
If your company operates within a free zone, the free zone authority often facilitates the process internally through their portal or service desks.
Establishment card fees can differ depending on the emirate your business is registered in and the nature of your company’s activity. Fees are usually paid at the time of submission via the respective platform or typing center.
Once submitted, the processing time typically ranges between 2 and 5 working days. You'll receive a notification upon approval, after which your establishment card number will be generated and your Establishment Card will be issued.
The Establishment Card is usually valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. It’s important to track the expiry date to avoid fines or interruptions in visa-related services. Renewal involves a similar process and requires updated trade license and tenancy details.
Obtaining an Establishment Card in the UAE is a critical step for any company planning to grow its team. It’s the foundation that connects your business to the country’s immigration system and gives you the legal authority to sponsor and manage employees.
By following the steps outlined above and ensuring your documents are in order, you can complete the process smoothly and stay aligned with UAE laws.
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