Establishment Card Services UAE
Government authorityICP (immigration establishment card) / MOHRE (labour file)
Estimated timelineOften issued within a few working days (not guaranteed)
Before your company can sponsor a single visa, it needs an establishment card. And when the card expires, every visa transaction in the company freezes — renewals included. We issue and renew establishment cards quickly so your company file stays active.
Official source: Always confirm the latest requirements on the official website: ICP icp.gov.ae · MOHRE mohre.gov.ae.
Who needs this service
- New companies preparing to hire their first employee
- Companies whose card is near or past expiry
- Businesses updating company details on the card after licence changes
Documents usually required
- Valid trade licence
- Owner/partner passport and Emirates ID copies
- Memorandum of association (where applicable)
- Company contact details
Step-by-step process
- Document review and checklist
- Application typing in the ICP system
- Fee payment and submission
- Card issuance and delivery of the electronic copy
- Renewal reminders before the next expiry
Government authority involved
ICP issues the immigration establishment card. The parallel labour establishment file is registered with MOHRE — we handle both.
Estimated timeline
Clean applications are often issued within a few working days.
Common mistakes
- Letting the card expire and freezing all employee visa renewals
- Company details on the card not matching an amended trade licence
- Forgetting the MOHRE labour file when setting up the immigration card
Related guides
- Establishment Card in UAE: What Companies Need to Know
- PRO Services in UAE: Complete Guide
- Trade Licence Renewal UAE Guide
Pricing note: Service fees are confirmed after reviewing your case. Government fees are separate and paid to the authority.
Frequently asked questions
What is an establishment card?
It registers your company with the immigration authority (ICP) so the company can sponsor employees' visas. A separate labour file registers the company with MOHRE.
Is the establishment card mandatory?
Yes, if your company will sponsor any residence visas. Without it, no employee or partner visas can be processed under the company.
How long is it valid?
Establishment cards are issued for a set validity and must be renewed on time; an expired card freezes all visa transactions for the company.
What is needed to get one?
Mainly the trade licence, owner/partner passports and Emirates IDs, and the company's details. Requirements vary slightly by emirate.
Can you renew an expired card?
Yes. Renewal after expiry is possible, though late renewal can attract fines and delays visa work, so renew before expiry.
Disclaimer: Bab Al Zahiah Typing Center is an independent professional service provider. We are not a government authority. Information on this website is provided for general guidance only and should be verified with the relevant UAE government authority before making decisions. Approval, rejection, timelines, fees, and requirements are controlled by the relevant authority.