Establishment card is one of the crucial documents that you need whether you are setting up a mainland company or operating in a free zone. Acquiring Establishment Card is mandatory for completing company formation. This card plays a key role in visa sponsorship, labor registration, and legal operations.
This blog explains what an Establishment Card is in the UAE, what are its benefits, how company setup consultants in Dubai can help with the process and renewal.
What Is an Establishment Card in UAE?
This official document, known as the Establishment Card UAE, Computer Card, or Immigration Card, is issued by the immigration authorities. It connects your business to the UAE’s visa system and confirms that your company is registered and also permitted to sponsor employees.
The card includes:
- Company name
- Establishment Card number
- Expiry date
- Licensing authority
- Other related business information
This card is mandatory for setting up a mainland company or free zone company. You need it even if you are entering a niche industry like tourism or logistics.
Issuing Authorities
Various government bodies are responsible for issuing Establishment card and concerned authority depends on your company’s location:
Jurisdiction | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|
Dubai Mainland | General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) |
Other Emirates | Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) |
Free Zones | Respective Free Zone Authorities |
Your company must be registered under GDRFA for your Establishment Card Dubai. So, getting a trade or business license is the first requirement.
How an Establishment Card Can Support Your Business in the UAE
With a valid Establishment Card, your business becomes eligible for opening a corporate bank account and hiring foreign employees. It is also required to sponsor residence visas and register with MOHRE for labor transactions. The card gives you access to immigration and government services while confirming your business is active and compliant with UAE laws. It also supports payroll processing and the issuance of work permits for your staff.
If you don’t apply for or renew your Establishment Card in Dubai or other emirates, you may face penalties, visa restrictions, or delays in business operations.
Establishment Card Types
The type of your Establishment card depends on your selected jurisdiction and legal structure of your business:
Business Type | Issuing Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mainland Companies | GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) | Linked to MOHRE for labor-related services |
Free Zone Companies | Respective Free Zone Authority | Valid within the chosen free zone jurisdiction |
Special Industry Cards | GDRFA / ICP / Relevant Authority | For entities like government bodies, foreign missions, hotels, marine sectors; additional documentation required |
Application for Establishment Card for Mainland Company
For mainland company Dubai, the applicants are required to apply for the Establishment Card through the GDRFA portal.
Step 1: Start the Process through GDRFA Portal
Go to the GDRFA Smart Services Portal and select the option of your business type. You will have two options to access the portal. Either access the portal with your UAE Pass or create a new account to use the services. Make sure you have the necessary paperwork and your trade license on hand before you begin.
Step 2: Complete and Submit the Application
You have to fill the application form as per the requirements. You will enter your business details, trade license number, and the names of authorized signatories. Before submitting, carefully check the information and upload all supporting documents.
Step 3: Receive Your Card After Payment
Use the online payment system to pay the relevant fees. When you successfully submit your application, you will receive an email or SMS with the current status. Typically, processing takes two to five business days. After being accepted, you can use the portal to obtain a digital copy of your Establishment Card.
Getting an Establishment Card for Your Free Zone Company
The process of business setup in Dubai is different as per the jurisdiction. For registering your business in a UAE Free Zone, you must apply directly through the free zone’s portal instead of using GDRFA or ICP because each free zone is a separate authority.
Step 1: Pick the Right UAE Free Zone
Your chosen free zone will support your business growth. Each zone focuses on a particular industry, such as trade, logistics, finance, or technology. Selecting one that aligns with your company’s objectives and target audience is crucial.
Step 2: Apply Through the Free Zone Portal
Go to the chosen free zone’s official website and fill out the application. You must upload all important required documents. It includes your trade license, passport copies of stakeholders, your Emirates ID (if applicable), and an outline of your business operations. Correct documentation will ensure that your process will go smooth.
Step 3: Receive Your Card after Payment
At this stage, you will pay online via the smart services portal of the free zone where your business is established. A digital copy of your Establishment Card will be sent to you upon approval. You can also receive a physical card if your free zone has this option.
Required Documents
Document | Description |
|---|---|
Trade License | Must be valid and show full activity details |
Passport Copies | For all owners and authorized signatories |
Emirates ID | Required for UAE residents |
Partners Addendum | If not all names appear on the license |
Memorandum of Association | For LLCs or companies with multiple shareholders |
Industry-specific arrangements, like hotels or diplomatic missions, can require additional approvals or letters issued by the ministry.
Establishment Card Number Sample
At the top of the document is your Establishment Card number. It is a special number linked to the immigration record of your company. This number will be displayed on a sample card for reference, along with the company name, license details, and expiration date.
Establishment Card Renewal Process in the UAE
The Establishment Card has a one-year expiration date. Some free zones might have multi-year validity.
Step 1: Start the Renewal Process through Portal
Go to the relevant government portal to start the renewal process. While companies in Abu Dhabi and other emirates can renew through the ICP Smart Services Portal or by going to an authorized typing center, mainland Dubai businesses should use GDRFA portal.
Step 2: Log In with Your Ready Documents
Use your UAE Pass or current business account to log in. Make sure you have your company’s trade license, current Establishment Card information, and any other necessary supporting documentation before moving further.
Step 3: Complete the Application and Attach Documents
Enter your trade license number, business details, and the names of authorized signatories on the online renewal form. Upload the required files, such as the most recent Establishment Card, copies of your passport, and a valid trade license.
Step 4: Submit, Pay, and Receive Your Updated Card
After carefully going over all the information, submit your application. The experts at typing center can help you with fees payment or you can also use online platform to pay the renewal fees. After being approved, which usually happens in 48 hours, you can download your renewed Establishment Card from the same portal after receiving an SMS or email confirmation.
Start Your Establishment Card Application with Momentum Today
Your Establishment Card guarantees that you can open a corporate bank account, sponsor employees, and comply with labor and immigration laws.
You can stay in compliance with the law and prevent needless delays by knowing how to apply for, renew, and monitor the status of an Establishment Card. To maintain the smooth operation of your business, always renew it on schedule and update it as necessary.
Apply for your Establishment Card now!
