Establishment Card UAE: Benefits & Application Procedure

An Establishment Card in the UAE is a crucial legal document that identifies a business with immigration authorities, allowing it to sponsor employee visas and access government services. Issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) in other emirates, it is mandatory for companies operating in both Mainland and Free Zones. This card ensures compliance with UAE regulations, streamlines business operations, and facilitates interactions with official entities. Understanding its benefits, requirements, and application process is essential for businesses looking to operate legally in the UAE. This article provides information regarding the establishment card UAE, its benefits, types, and the detailed application procedure. 

What is Establishment Card UAE?

The Establishment Card UAE is an official document issued by the relevant UAE authorities in the jurisdiction where a company is registered. It serves as proof that a business is legally authorised to operate in the UAE and is essential for various immigration and labour-related processes. The card contains vital details such as the company name, card number, and expiry date. It is also referred to as an Establishment Immigration Card, Establishment Labor Card, Company Establishment Card (CEC), or Corporation Immigration Card (CIC). This card is not issued by the registration authority but by the immigration authority. For instance, When you apply for an establishment card, the registration authority requests the immigration authority. 

Benefits of Establishment Card UAE

The Establishment Card in the UAE is a fundamental requirement for businesses, ensuring legal compliance and smooth operations. Here are the key benefits of establishment card in UAE:

• Legal Compliance: The establishment card confirms that a company is legally registered and adheres to UAE labour laws and business regulations.
• Banking and Finance: It enables businesses to open corporate bank accounts, process transactions, and manage financial operations seamlessly.
• Visa Applications: Companies cannot sponsor work visas for employees without an establishment card, making it a mandatory document for hiring and workforce management.
• Utilities and Services: The card is required to set up electricity, water, phone lines, and internet connections for business premises.
• Government Services: It grants businesses access to government services, including trade license applications, permit approvals, and company registrations.

Types of Establishment Cards in UAE

Typically, there are three types of establishment cards in the UAE. Those are:

• Establishment Card for Institutions in the Private Sector/ Free Zone
• Establishment Card for Institutions in the Government Sector
• Establishment Card for national companies - SME

Documents Required to Obtain Establishment Card UAE

The documentation required to obtain an Establishment Card in the UAE varies based on the type of business entity. However, the following are the key documents generally needed:

• Official Request Letter: A signed and sealed note from the country of residence addressed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) requesting the issuance of an establishment card.
• Authorised Signatories' Documents: Approval of the signatures of the authorised signatories in both Arabic and English, along with copies of their passports.
• Sector-Specific Requirements:
• Government Entities: A copy of the decree, a board formation document, and an official letter to the public administration.
• Private & Free Zone Entities: A valid commercial license, a signature authorisation letter, and a power of attorney if applicable.
• National Companies: A commercial license and Memorandum of Association (MoA). Companies under the Small Business Support Programme must also provide a letter from the program.

Procedure to Obtain Establishment Card UAE

There are three ways to obtain an establishment card in UAE. If you are in an emirate other than Dubai, you can get it through ICP Smart services or Typing Center. If you are in Dubai, you need to apply through GDRFAD (General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai):

1. Through ICP Smart Services

• Visit the ICP Official Website: Access the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) portal.
• Navigate to Services: Click on the Author: DINESH P Dinesh Pandiyan is our expert content writer who specialises in business registration, tax regulations, trademark laws, and company compliance. His insightful articles deliver clear and actionable advice, helping businesses easily navigate and overcome complex legal and regulatory challenges. Updated on: February 5th, 2025