We’re standing on the edge of a digital cliff: one missed check and a fine can tumble you into a financial storm. In the UAE, work permit status is not just a bureaucratic checkbox—it’s your passport to peace of mind and a steady paycheck. Did you know that a single overlooked day can cost you thousands in fines? That’s why we’re here to arm you with a step‑by‑step map to how to check work permit status before the clock strikes midnight.
Step 1: Log in to the GDRFA portal to check work permit status
- Visit the GDRFA Dubai website: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en.
- Click Services → Visa & Residency → Application Status Tracker.
- Enter your Application Reference Number or Emirates ID.
- Hit Track Status and instantly see the current state, expiry date, and any pending documents.
Step 2: Verify using the Unified Number Inquiry Service
- Navigate to https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/unified-number-inquiry-service.
- Input your Passport Number, Nationality, and Date of Birth.
- The system returns the Unified Number (UID) and current permit status.
Step 3: Check fines or pending penalties
- Go to https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/fines-inquiry-service.
- Enter your Emirates ID or File Number to view any outstanding fines that could affect your permit.
Quick checklist of documents for online verification
| Document | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Passport copy (front & back) | Proof of identity for ARN and UID lookup |
| Emirates ID photo | Current residency ID required for status confirmation |
| Recent passport‑size photo | Needed for updates or new applications |
Alternative verification methods
- GDRFA Smart App: Download from the App Store or Google Play, log in with your Emirates ID, and tap Visa & Residency → Application Tracking. Instant push notifications keep you updated.
- MOHRE Inquiry Portal: Visit https://inquiry.mohre.gov.ae/, select Work Permit Status, and enter your Employee Number or Passport.
- Call Centre: Toll‑free number. State your Emirates ID and Passport Number for quick answers.
- In‑Person: Visit any GDRFA Service Centre with your documents for complex cases.
We’ve laid out the roadmap; the next section dives deeper into status codes, renewal timelines, and penalties. Stay with us—your career’s safety net is just a few clicks away.
Have you ever wondered what happens if your work permit slips past its expiry?
A single day can trigger a fine that feels like a storm cloud over your finances.
We’re here to keep that cloud at bay with a clear map to how to check work permit status before it rains.
Step‑by‑Step: Official GDRFA Online Portal Walkthrough – how to check work permit status
Let’s dive into the GDRFA portal, the official gatekeeper of your residency. Every click brings you closer to peace of mind.
1. Log in and locate the tracker
Log in at https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en using your Emirates ID or passport.
Once logged, click Services → Visa & Residency → Application Status Tracker.
Here, type your Application Reference Number (ARN) or Emirates ID and hit Track Status.
This is the first step in how to check work permit status.
2. Verify with the Unified Number Service
Navigate to https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/unified-number-inquiry-service.
Enter your Passport Number, Nationality, and Date of Birth.
The system will return your Unified Number (UID) and real‑time permit status.
Knowing your UID makes future checks faster, like having a shortcut key on your keyboard.
3. Inspect fines and pending penalties
Go to https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/fines-inquiry-service.
Input your Emirates ID or File Number.
The portal lists any outstanding fines that could affect your permit.
Spotting a fine early feels like catching a leak before it floods.
4. Keep your documents ready
| Document | Why It Matters | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Passport copy (front & back) | Identity proof | Valid for 6+ months |
| Emirates ID photo | Residency ID | Current photo |
| Recent passport‑size photo | Updates or new applications | White background |
Tip: Store these files in a cloud folder so you can access them instantly during a portal session.
5. Quick sanity check
If the portal shows PENDING, APPROVED, or REJECTED, you’re good.
If it says EXPIRED, renew immediately to avoid a 100 AED daily fine after 30 days.
If you see REVOKED, contact your employer or GDRFA for clarification.
Ready to become a status‑savvy pro? Bookmark this guide and set a calendar reminder for 60 days before your permit’s expiry. That way, you’ll never miss a renewal and can avoid the dreaded receive of fines.
How to Check Work Permit Status: Alternative Verification Channels
When the clock ticks, knowing your work permit status feels like holding a lifeline. We’ve mapped out every alternative way to check it, so you’re never left guessing. From a slick mobile app to a friendly call centre, each channel offers a unique blend of speed, convenience, and thoroughness.
Official Online Portal: How to Check Work Permit Status
- Open the GDRFA official portal at https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en and click Visa & Residency → Application Tracking.
- Enter your Emirates ID or passport number and click Check Status.
- Review the status displayed and note the expiry date and any pending actions.
Alternative Verification Methods
- GDRFA Smart App – Download from App Store or Google Play, log in with your Emirates ID, tap Visa & Residency → Application Tracking. Push notifications keep you updated.
- MOHRE Inquiry Portal – Visit https://inquiry.mohre.gov.ae/, select Work Permit Status, enter employee number or passport. Quick, but only shows data the ministry has on file.
- Call Centre – The call centre is available 24/7. State your Emirates ID and passport number to a friendly operator for assistance.
- In‑Person Visits – Visit any GDRFA Service Centre with passport, Emirates ID, and a recent photo. Staff will verify documents, resolve anomalies, and may issue instant receipts.
Here’s a quick pros and cons snapshot.
The Smart App wins on speed, the call centre on accessibility, the portal on official data, and the office on thorough checks.
| Method | How to Use | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDRFA Smart App | Download, log in, tap Visa & Residency → Application Tracking | N/A – App‑based | 24/7 access; instant push notifications |
| MOHRE Inquiry Portal | Visit https://inquiry.mohre.gov.ae/, enter employee number or passport | N/A – Online | Useful for employers processing permits via MOHRE |
| Call Centre | 24/7 | Ideal for urgent queries or when online services fail | |
| In‑Person | Visit any GDRFA Service Centre with documents | N/A | For complex cases or document verification |
So which channel should you choose? If speed and instant alerts matter, grab the Smart App. For real‑time data from the ministry, hit the MOHRE portal. Need a human touch? Call the centre or visit a GDRFA office. Each method is a tool; pick the one that fits your rhythm.
Keep your Emirates ID, passport, and a recent photo close at hand. These documents are the keys to all verification channels and can save you hours of waiting.
If you’re traveling soon, check your status a day before departure. A delayed visa can cancel flights and cost you a refund. Use the app for instant alerts and the call centre for last‑minute clarifications.
Now that you know your options, let’s dive into the codes that tell you exactly what your status means.
How to Check Work Permit Status: Decoding Status Codes
Status Code Overview
| Code | Status | Quick Insight |
|---|---|---|
| PENDING | Application is under review | Awaiting decision |
| APPROVED | Permit granted | Work until expiry |
| REJECTED | Application denied | Contact employer |
| IN PROCESS | Processing in progress | Expect 2‑3 weeks |
| EXPIRED | Permit expired | Renew immediately |
| REVOKED | Permit cancelled | Likely non‑compliance |
How to Check Work Permit Status – Step‑by‑Step
- Visit the UAE visa check online portal and log in with your Emirates ID.
- Enter your work permit reference number to view the current status.
- Read the status code (e.g., PENDING, APPROVED, REJECTED, IN PROCESS, EXPIRED, REVOKED).
- Take the appropriate action based on the code:
– PENDING: Wait 1‑2 weeks, then follow up.
– APPROVED: Continue working until expiry.
– REJECTED: Contact your employer, resolve the issue, and resubmit.
– IN PROCESS: Expect 2‑3 weeks before checking again.
– EXPIRED: Renew immediately to avoid fines.
– REVOKED: Start a new application.
Each code carries a different weight. If you see PENDING, you’re in the waiting room; the GDRFA is still reviewing your docs. In that case, log into the UAE visa check online portal, double‑check your Emirates ID, and ensure no missing attachments. A REJECTED flag is a red flag; you’ll need to talk to your employer, fix the issue, and resubmit. When the status reads IN PROCESS, the paperwork is moving through the system—give it 2‑3 weeks before following up. An EXPIRED status is a ticking bomb. If you ignore it, fines start at AED 100 per day after 30 days. The portal will flag your file, and the employer may suspend your salary. The fastest fix is to log into the UAE visa check online, submit the renewal form, and pay the renewal fee within 24 hours. Lastly, REVOKED means the permit is gone—often due to legal or compliance breaches; you must start a new application.
Imagine Ahmed, a software engineer, sees REJECTED on his dashboard. He dials the GDRFA call centre, learns his work permit was denied because his employer failed to provide a valid labor card. Ahmed immediately contacts HR, uploads the missing card, and resubmits. Within five days, the status flips to IN PROCESS, and he can resume work.
Maria, a nurse, sees IN PROCESS after submitting her renewal. She knows the system takes up to 21 days. She sets a calendar reminder and checks her email for status updates. When the portal finally shows APPROVED, she prints the new card and updates her UAE visa check online to reflect the new expiry.
Now that you can read the codes like a weather report, the next section will walk you through turning these insights into concrete actions—renewals, appeals, and avoiding fines.
How to check work permit status: Renewal Timelines, Penalties, and Updating Personal Info
Renewing your UAE work permit can feel like a race against the clock. One missed day can trigger a fine that drags you into a financial storm. We’ve mapped the renewal window so you can stay ahead of the curve. Wondering how long you have before the deadline? Let’s break it down.
Step 1 – Check your status
Open the GDRFA portal or the Smart App to see your current work permit status and start the renewal process. How to check work permit status?
The official policy says you must start renewal at least 60 days before expiry. After the 30‑day grace period, a daily AED 100 fine kicks in. Over 90 days, you risk detention, deportation, and a 12‑month re‑entry ban. These numbers are not fluff; they’re backed by GDRFA statutes.
Quick Reference
| Process | Typical Processing Time | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Renewal | 5–7 business days | AED 200 |
| Labour Card Renewal | 5–7 business days | AED 200 |
| Emirates ID Update | 2–3 business days | AED 50 |
| Daily Overstay Fine | N/A | AED 100 per day |
FAQ: Renewal, Penalties & Updates
What is the exact deadline for initiating renewal?
The GDRFA requires you to submit the renewal application no later than 60 days before your current permit expires. Starting later opens a 30‑day grace window where you can still renew without immediate fines.
How steep are the penalties for overstaying?
A daily fine of AED 100 accrues after the 30‑day grace period. If you overstay beyond 90 days, the fine compounds, and authorities may detain, deport, or ban you from re‑entry for 12 months.
What steps must I take to update my personal information?
1. Open the GDRFA Smart App or the online portal.
2. Tap “Update Personal Information.”
3. Upload a new Emirates ID copy, passport, and a recent passport‑size photo.
4. Confirm the changes. Once verified, the update propagates instantly across all services.
What fees are involved in renewal and updates?
See the quick reference table above.
Can I receive a reminder before the renewal window closes?
Yes. Register your contact details in the Smart App, and you’ll get push notifications 30 days before expiry.
Additional Resources
- For official guidelines, visit the GDRFA website: GDRFA.
- Related guide: Dubai residency status.
- Download the required documents checklist: Documents Checklist.
Bookmark this page for future checks and subscribe to our newsletter for status update alerts.
Here’s a handy snapshot of the key numbers you need for work permits.
Want to know how fast your permit renews or how much a late fee will bite? Keep reading.
Quick Reference: Processing Times & Fees Snapshot
| Service | Typical Processing Time | Fee (AED) | Cost‑Saving Tip | Penalty for Delay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Issuance | 2‑3 weeks | 200 | Renew 60 days early | None |
| Work Permit Renewal | 2‑3 weeks | 200 | File 30 days before expiry | 100 per day after 30 days (fine) |
| Labour Card Renewal | 60 days | 200 | Submit with new contract | Same daily fine |
| Online Tracking | Instant | Free | N/A | N/A |
Why the timing matters: A single overdue day can feel like a leaky faucet—each drip adds to your financial drain.
Cost‑Saving Insights
- Early renewal saves you the daily fine and keeps your payroll uninterrupted.
- Batch renewals for teams can cut administrative fees by up to 15%.
- Digital notifications from the GDRFA app alert you 10 days before expiry—no more last‑minute scrambles.
Penalties in a Nutshell
- After 30 days past expiry, a 100 AED fine per day applies.
- Over 90 days, the penalty escalates to 200 AED per day, and the employer may face a 12‑month ban.
- Late renewals also trigger a processing delay of 2‑3 weeks, pushing your project timelines.
How to Check Work Permit Status
- Log in to the GDRFA portal (https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae) or the Smart App.
- Navigate to Visa & Residency → Application Tracking.
- Enter your Emirates ID or ARN; the status pops up instantly.
Quick Decision‑Making Checklist
- Check status now—no more guessing games.
- If pending, verify that all documents were uploaded.
- If expired, renew immediately; a 60‑day window is your safety net.
- Monitor the online tracker for real‑time updates.
Remember, staying ahead is cheaper than falling behind. Our table is your compass—navigate with it, and keep your work‑permit ship sailing smoothly.
Next Steps
In the next section, we’ll walk through the exact steps to file online and avoid common pitfalls.
Take Action: Bookmark, Subscribe, Checklist, and Monthly Review
We’ve already taken you through every portal, app, and phone call you’ll need to check your UAE work permit status. Now it’s time to lock in those wins. Imagine every check feeling like a smooth, automatic ride instead of a frantic sprint. That’s what a handful of simple habits can do.
Bookmark the page
Hit the bookmark icon, name it, and stash it in your favorites. A single tap brings the guide right to your screen, like a lifeline on a stormy sea. That way you never have to hunt the URL again, and the newest procedures stay right where you need them.
Subscribe for status alerts
Drop your email into our status‑alert list and get instant alerts whenever your permit status shifts. Picture it as a personal traffic light for your residency—green means all good, yellow warns you, red tells you to act.
Download the PDF checklist
Download the PDF checklist that lists every document you’ll need to verify or renew. One PDF lets you print, tick off, and keep track of what’s missing—your own audit trail.
Set up a monthly review schedule
Put the first Monday of each month in your calendar. In that time slot, do the following:
1. Re‑visit the GDRFA portal and confirm your status.
2. Update any personal details that may have changed.
3. Check for new processing times or fee adjustments.
4. Review your checklist and add any new items.
Why does this matter? Regular reviews keep your compliance compliant with UAE law, cut the risk of fines, and clear your mind. When you monitor bounce rates and adjust depth, you’re not just staying current—you’re staying ahead.
Our guide is a living document. By bookmarking, subscribing, checking, and reviewing monthly, you turn a one‑time effort into a continuous safety net. Ready to make it happen? Your next step is just a click away.