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Setting up a company in the UAE offers incredible opportunities thanks to its tax-friendly policies, booming business sector, and global connectivity. But before you can fully operate, one critical document stands between you and legal business operations: the Establishment Card, also known as the Company Immigration Card.
If you’re wondering what is an Establishment Card is in the UAE and why you need one, this guide breaks it all down from the application process to renewal, costs, and the card’s vital role in business registration, visa sponsorship, and accessing government services.
What Is an Establishment Card in the UAE?
An Establishment Card (also called the Company Immigration Card or Immigration Card) is an official document issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the immigration authority in the UAE. This card allows companies to legally apply for employee visas, sponsor dependents, and perform immigration-related tasks across various government departments.
It is a mandatory requirement for all mainland companies, free zone entities, and private companies to ensure compliance with foreign affairs and economic development laws.
What the Establishment Card Includes
Your company establishment card includes key business details, such as:
- Company trade name
- Trade license number
- Immigration file number
- Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Registered address
- Legal form (mainland, free zone, or offshore)
These details are critical for verifying the business during visa applications, payroll operations, tax registration, and banking services.
Why Do You Need an Establishment Card?
The Establishment Card plays a foundational role in your company’s ability to function within the UAE. Here’s why it’s essential:
1. Sponsor Employee Visas and Dependents
The card authorises your company to sponsor visas for employees and their families. Without it, you cannot legally hire staff or bring in foreign talent.
2. Access Government Services
You need the card to engage with immigration service centres, the labour establishment card system, and the smart services system for online government transactions.
3. Enable Business Operations
From payroll processing to financial transactions and filing with government authorities, the card ensures that your business can legally operate.
4. Open Corporate Bank Accounts
Many banks require a valid Establishment Card in Dubai or other Emirates as part of their KYC (Know Your Customer) process before you can access financial services.
How to Apply for an Establishment Card
Follow these steps to secure your UAE Establishment Card:
Step 1: Obtain a Valid Trade License
Start by registering your business and securing a business license from the Sharjah Economic Development Department, Dubai DED, or the relevant Free Zone Authority.
Step 2: Register with the Immigration Department
Depending on your jurisdiction, register with the immigration authority (mainland) or through your free zone authority.
Step 3: Submit All the Necessary Documents
You will need:
- Valid trade license
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- Passport & Emirates ID of the owner/authorised signatory
- Tenancy contract (Ejari for mainland)
- Application forms and payment receipts
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
Fees vary depending on business location:
- Card issuance fee
- Application fee
- Electronic services fee
- Innovation dirham fee
- Knowledge dirham fee
- Optional: Express service fee if you’re in a hurry
Cost and Validity of the Establishment Card
The cost to obtain an Establishment Card UAE generally ranges between AED 500 and AED 1,500. The final cost depends on the location (mainland vs free zone), optional services, and service fee structure.
- Validity period: 1 year
- Renewal process: Must be completed before the expiry date
- Renewal fee: Varies; penalties for delays can accumulate daily
Using a PRO service like Dynasty Business Adviser or Emifast can ensure you never miss a deadline.
Mainland vs Free Zone Establishment Cards
Mainland Companies:
- Must register through the Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Requires Ejari and submission to the General Directorate
- More documentation required
Free Zone Companies:
- Processed via the relevant Free Zone Authority
- Often included in setup packages
- Easier access to the same service, renewals, and online payments
Avoid Common Issues
Avoid delays and penalties by following these tips:
- Track the expiration date and initiate establishment card renewal early
- Keep all the necessary documents up to date
- Use professional PRO services to manage multiple cards
- Ensure the trade license and labour establishment card are valid
The Establishment Card Serves as Your Business Gateway
The Establishment Card Dubai, or in any Emirate, isn’t just a formality; it is your key to legal employment, visa sponsorship, business activities, and interacting with government departments. It also plays a crucial role in regional and global trade, ensuring seamless operations for national companies, local companies, and international investors alike.
Need Help With Your Establishment Card Application?
At Emifast, we guide entrepreneurs through the application process, assist with renewals, and streamline communication with government authorities. Whether you’re a startup or an expanding enterprise, our expertise ensures full compliance and peace of mind.
Contact us today to get your Establishment Card in the UAE and focus on what truly matters: growing your business.