If your employer has applied for a UAE work permit, the fastest way to stay updated is to do a MOHRE work permit status check using your application details (or your employer’s transaction number). This guide explains the official ways to track your request, what each status means, and how to fix the most common errors that cause delays.
What is a MOHRE work permit (and who applies for it)?
A work permit is the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) approval that allows an employer to legally hire and employ a worker in the UAE private sector. In most cases, the employer (or their PRO/typing center) submits the application, but you can still track the progress once you have the right reference details.
For the most accurate updates, use MOHRE’s official channels such as the MOHRE official website and the MOHRE mobile app.
What you need before you check your work permit status
Prepare as many of the following as possible (your available options depend on the channel you use):
- Work permit application / transaction number (often provided by the employer/PRO)
- Passport number (as entered in the application)
- Nationality
- Date of birth
- UAE mobile number (if used for OTP/login)
Tip: Ask your employer/PRO for a screenshot of the submitted application summary showing the transaction number and submission date. It makes follow-ups much easier.
MOHRE work permit status check (official methods)
Method 1: Check via MOHRE website (online)
You can track your request through MOHRE’s online services on the MOHRE official website. The exact menu names can change, but the typical flow is:
- Open MOHRE eServices and locate a service related to application/transaction status or enquiry.
- Enter your reference details (transaction number and/or personal details as requested).
- Review the status shown on screen and note any remarks (missing documents, corrections needed, etc.).
If you cannot find the enquiry page, use the site search for “transaction status” or “application status” within MOHRE services.
Method 2: Check via the MOHRE mobile app
MOHRE also provides a smartphone app that includes enquiry and service tracking features. Downloading sources vary by country, but you can usually find it through official app stores such as the MOHRE app listing on Google Play.
After login (or using the available guest/enquiry options), look for:
- Enquiries / Services
- Application status / Transaction tracking
Enter the requested details and check the latest status and notes.
Method 3: Through Tasheel/typing centers (if your employer filed via a center)
If the application was submitted through a Tasheel/typing center, the same center (or your employer’s PRO) can often re-check the file, confirm whether documents were accepted, and re-submit corrections. This is useful when the status shows “returned” or “needs modification.”
Method 4: MOHRE call center / support
If you’re blocked online (wrong details, no access to the reference number, or unclear status), contact MOHRE support and provide your passport details and any available transaction reference. Support can clarify what step the application is stuck on and what the employer must fix.
Common work permit statuses and what they mean
Status labels can vary, but these are common meanings:
- Submitted / Received: Application has been created and received by MOHRE.
- Under review / In process: MOHRE is verifying documents, eligibility, and job/company details.
- Returned for correction: Something needs editing (e.g., mismatch in passport data, missing attachment, wrong occupation/title).
- Approved: Work permit is approved and you can proceed to the next steps (medical, Emirates ID, residence visa process depending on your case).
- Rejected: Application is refused. The remarks typically indicate the reason (quota/eligibility/document issue).
- Cancelled: Employer withdrew the application or it expired/was closed.
How long does a MOHRE work permit take?
Processing time depends on application type, company classification, document accuracy, and whether any corrections are required. Straightforward applications can move quickly, but delays are common when documents don’t match exactly (name spelling, passport number, job title, or missing approvals).
If you need to confirm other immigration details while waiting, you may also want to note your UAE visa number (if already issued for your case) because some later steps and appointments may request it.
Common errors that stop your work permit approval (and how to fix them)
1) Passport details don’t match
Even a small difference in spelling, passport number, or expiry date can trigger a return for correction. Ask the employer/PRO to compare the application fields with the passport MRZ (the machine-readable lines at the bottom of the passport photo page).
2) Wrong job title/occupation selection
MOHRE job categories can be strict. If the employer selects an occupation that doesn’t align with the company activity or the worker’s qualifications, the application may be rejected or returned. The fix is typically a corrected occupation selection and supporting documents.
3) Missing or unclear documents
Low-quality scans, missing pages, or incomplete attestations are frequent issues. Re-scan in color, ensure full-page visibility, and upload the exact document type requested in the remarks.
4) Existing labor/immigration issues (absconding, disputes, bans)
If your file is held due to an employment-related flag, your employer may be asked to resolve it before proceeding. If you suspect an issue, it can help to check absconded status in UAE and clarify the situation before multiple submissions.
5) Application shows “returned” repeatedly
This usually means the same mismatch is being re-submitted without correction. Ask for the exact MOHRE remark text, fix only what MOHRE asked for, and re-submit with a clean set of attachments.
What to do after your work permit is approved
Approval is a key milestone, but it’s not the final step for residency. Depending on whether you are inside or outside the UAE and your entry permit/visa stage, you may need to proceed with medical fitness, Emirates ID, and residence visa stamping (or e-visa issuance where applicable).
If your employment is ending or you’re changing employers, make sure you understand the correct process for visa cancellation and final settlement to avoid gaps, overstay fines, or payroll disputes.
FAQs
Can I do a MOHRE work permit status check without a transaction number?
Sometimes, yes—depending on the enquiry channel, you may be able to search with passport and personal details. However, the transaction number is the most reliable reference, so request it from your employer/PRO.
My status says “returned for correction.” Is it rejected?
No. “Returned” usually means MOHRE needs a correction or additional document. Read the remarks carefully, correct only what’s requested, and re-submit through your employer/typing center.
Why does my status not change for many days?
Common reasons include missing approvals, high workload, or incomplete/mismatched documents. If there’s no update for an extended period, ask your employer to escalate via MOHRE support with the transaction reference.
Does MOHRE handle all work permits in the UAE?
MOHRE generally covers the private sector in the UAE. Some categories (for example, certain free zones or government entities) may follow different authority processes. Always confirm which authority issued your entry/work documentation.
Quick checklist to avoid delays
- Match passport details exactly (spelling, number, expiry)
- Use clear, complete scans of required documents
- Ensure job title aligns with company activity and qualifications
- Save your transaction number and submission date
- Act quickly on “returned” remarks to prevent expiration
By following the steps above and checking the remarks carefully, you can complete your MOHRE work permit status check with confidence and reduce the chances of repeated returns or delays.
