How to Remove UAE Labor Ban – Full Guide for Expats (India, Pakistan)

UAE Labor Ban – What It Means, How Long It Lasts, and How to Remove It (2025 Guide)

If you’ve recently lost your job or resigned in the UAE, you may hear about something called a labor ban. For many expats, especially from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, or the Philippines, a labor ban can be a big barrier to finding a new job or staying in the country. But the good news is — labor bans can often be avoided or removed legally.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step explanation in plain language.

What is a Labor Ban in UAE?

A labor ban is a temporary restriction placed on your ability to work for another company in the UAE. It is usually issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) when:

You resign too early

You break your employment contract

Your employer files a complaint against you

You can still stay in the UAE with a labor ban, but you cannot get a new work permit until the ban period is over or canceled.

Types of Labor Ban in UAE

Type Duration Reason

6-month ban 6 months Resigning before contract ends (limited contract)

1-year ban 1 year Terminated for cause, job abandonment, or labor dispute

Permanent ban Lifetime Fraud, absconding, criminal charges

Note: The most common type is the 6-month labor ban, especially for limited contracts.

How to Check if You Have a Ban

You can check your labor ban status by:

1. Visiting a TASHEEL or Tawjeeh center

2. Calling MOHRE at 800 60

3. Asking your new company’s PRO to verify it

4. Using the MOHRE smart app

You’ll need your passport number or Emirates ID to check.

How to Avoid or Remove a Labor Ban

1. Complete Your Contract

If you work until the end of your limited contract (usually 2 years), there will be no labor ban.

2. Mutual Agreement with Employer

If your employer gives you a No Objection Certificate (NOC), the ban can often be lifted.

3. Switch to Free Zone or Government Job

Labor bans only apply to MOHRE-regulated companies. You can avoid the ban if:

Your new job is in a Free Zone (like JAFZA, DAFZA, DMCC)

You join a semi-government or government company

4. Higher Salary Exceptions

If your new job offers a higher salary, labor bans can be removed:

AED 5,000+ for high school diploma

AED 7,000+ for diploma holders

AED 12,000+ for bachelor's degree holders

You must submit attested educational certificates to MOHRE.

5. File a Complaint if Ban is Unfair

If you believe your ban is unfair, you can file a labour complaint with MOHRE. They may cancel the ban if your case is strong.

Documents You May Need

Copy of your old and new employment contract

Visa and passport copies

Educational certificate (attested)

NOC from previous employer (optional)

Offer letter from new company

 What NOT to Do

Don’t try to work illegally during your ban.

Don’t overstay your grace period after visa cancellation.

Don’t accept advice from unauthorized agents or people offering fake ban removals.

Final Tip:

A labor ban is temporary and usually solvable. If you understand your rights and follow the legal steps, you can: ✅ Continue working

✅ Change companies

✅ Return to UAE later (if outside)

Always stay informed — and never sign a contract you don’t understand.

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