How to Apply for an E-Signature Card in UAE (2025 Guide)

If you're planning to start a business, work as a PRO, or manage employment matters in the UAE, you’ve likely come across the e-signature card. Also known as the electronic signature card, this card is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) and allows individuals to digitally sign labour-related documents on behalf of UAE-registered companies.

As of 2025, the application process for the e-signature card has become more streamlined through MOHRE’s online services. Still, many applicants are unsure about the process, eligibility, required documents, and where the card is needed, especially when dealing with different zones like mainland or free zones.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

What is an E-Signature Card in the UAE?

An e-signature card, officially issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), is a secure digital identification card that allows company representatives to electronically sign employment-related documents and labour contracts. It serves as a digital identity that confirms the authority of the cardholder to act on behalf of a UAE-registered company in dealings with MOHRE.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of the e-signature card is to authenticate and digitally sign labour transactions with MOHRE. It replaces the older manual signature process and ensures faster, more secure handling of approvals and document submissions.

Who typically Needs One?

• Company Owners or Partners
• Public Relations Officers (PROs)
• HR or Administrative Managers
• Authorized Signatories registered with MOHRE

If you're working with MOHRE or handling tasks such as employment visa processing, contract approvals, or employee work permit requests, this card is essential.

Why is the E-Signature Card Important?

In the UAE’s digital labour ecosystem, the e-signature card plays a critical role in streamlining and securing employment-related processes. Whether you’re running a business, sponsoring employees, or managing visa workflows, having this card means you’re officially authorized to act on behalf of your company in the MOHRE system.

Key Benefits:

• Official Recognition

The card confirms that you are a registered representative with signing authority for MOHRE-related activities.

• Access to MOHRE e-Services

Once issued, you can log in to the MOHRE e-portal and Smart Tasheel system to manage approvals, renewals, and requests digitally.

• Time-Saving

Avoid queues and in-person visits by processing most labour-related tasks online using your digital signature.

• Secure & Trackable

Every transaction done using the e-signature card is recorded digitally, ensuring compliance and transparency.

• Mandatory for Certain Roles

Many businesses in the UAE, especially in sectors like construction, trading, and staffing, cannot operate smoothly without having a valid e-signature card for their PRO or manager.

Who Can Apply for an E-Signature Card in the UAE?

The E-Signature Card is primarily designed for individuals authorized to represent a company in MOHRE-related matters.

Eligible Applicants:

• Company Owners / Partners

If you're listed as an owner or partner on a valid trade license, you can apply for the e-signature card directly.

• Authorized PROs (Public Relations Officers)

Most companies appoint PROs to handle visa and labour documentation. An authorized PRO is usually the one who holds and uses the e-signature card.

• HR or Admin Managers

In larger companies, administrative professionals may be assigned official authority to manage MOHRE-related tasks and require an e-signature card.

• Freelancers / Self-Employed Individuals

If you have a freelance permit or operate under a sole establishment, you may be eligible to apply, especially if you handle your own labour-related approvals.

Key Requirements:

To apply for the card, the applicant must generally:

• Be linked to the company on the Emirates ID or labour establishment card.
• Have a valid UAE residence visa.
• Be at least 21 years old.
• Not have any active labour violations or fines in MOHRE’s system.

Note: Only one e-signature card is allowed per individual, but a person may represent multiple companies if officially linked.

How to Apply for an E-Signature Card in the UAE (Step-by-Step)

Applying for an e-signature card in the UAE is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to avoid delays or rejections. The process can be completed online or in person, depending on the service center and the company setup.

Step 1: Visit an Authorized Typing Center or MOHRE Service Center

Start by visiting one of the following:

• TASHEEL Centers (authorized typing and labour service centers)
• MOHRE-approved service centers (Labour office branches)

Alternatively, some companies may be eligible to initiate the application via MOHRE's online platform.

Step 2: Submit the Required Documents

When applying for an E-Signature Card in the UAE, it’s crucial to bring the correct set of documents to avoid delays or rejection. Depending on whether you’re applying as a business owner, PRO, or authorized signatory, the requirements may slightly differ.

Here’s a standard checklist of what you’ll need:

For Company Owner / Authorized Signatory:

• Emirates ID (copy)
• Passport with valid UAE residence visa (copy)
• Recent photograph with white background
• Valid Trade License (issued by the Department of Economic Development or Free Zone)
• Company Establishment Card (copy)
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Power of Attorney (if applying on behalf of someone else)
• Mobile number and email address registered with MOHRE

For PROs or Company Representatives:

All of the above (plus):

• Power of Attorney (POA) or official letter granting permission
• Their own Emirates ID and passport (copy)

Always carry both physical and digital copies of your documents to simplify submission and verification.

Step 3: Application Typing & Fee Payment

• The typing center staff will fill out the e-signature application form using your details.
• You will be asked to pay the government fee, which may vary slightly based on the emirate and service center.
• Standard fee: ~AED 200 – AED 250 (as of 2025)
• Keep the payment receipt as proof of application.

Step 4: Biometric Verification (If Required)

Some applicants may be required to submit biometric data such as:

• Fingerprint scan
• Digital signature capture

This is usually done on-site if applicable.

Step 5: Collect Your E-Signature Card

• Once approved, you will receive your e-signature card, usually within 1 to 3 working days.
• The card will include your photo, card serial number, and labour establishment details.
• It’s often issued in a plastic card or digital form, depending on MOHRE's latest process.

Your card must be renewed annually, and it is typically linked to your labour establishment status.

Note: Upon issuance, the E-Signature Card includes an embedded digital certificate registered with MOHRE. This certificate enables secure login, digital authentication, and legally binding approvals; no separate application is required.

E-Signature Card Uses in the UAE

The e-signature card isn’t just a formality; it’s a crucial digital identity tool used in many official procedures related to employment and company operations. Whether you’re a business owner, HR manager, or company PRO (Public Relations Officer), this card is essential for dealing with the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) and related platforms.

1. MOHRE Transactions

The primary function of the e-signature card is to authorize and authenticate transactions submitted to the MOHRE. It acts as your digital signature for all labour-related activities, including:

• Applying for new work permits
• Modifying or cancelling existing permits
• Renewing labour cards
• Updating employee information
• Attesting employment contracts
• Submitting complaints or dispute documents

Without an active e-signature card, you won’t be able to process any of these requests online or through TASHEEL centers.

2. Labour Establishment Management

Business owners or partners registered with the UAE’s Ministry of Economy and licensed under DED or a free zone authority use the e-signature card to:

• Access and manage their company profile on the MOHRE system
• Delegate tasks to authorized personnel (such as PROs)
• View or approve employee applications

3. PRO and HR Use

For PROs (Public Relations Officers) or HR executives, the e-signature card allows them to represent the company legally when handling employee affairs. It confirms their role and authority to:

• Submit forms on behalf of the company
• Collect official documents (e.g. work permits, labour contracts)
• Resolve labour-related issues

4. Digital Security and Tracking

Because every card is assigned a unique serial number, it offers transparency and traceability. Each transaction made using an e-signature card is logged and recorded by MOHRE, reducing the risk of fraud or unauthorized changes.

5. Future Integration

With the UAE’s increasing emphasis on digital governance, the e-signature card is expected to be integrated into:

• Unified company dashboards
• Online dispute systems
• Smart visa services
• Employer classification systems

Think of it as your secure gateway into UAE’s evolving digital labour ecosystem.

What Is a Digital Certificate and How Does It Relate to the E-Signature Card?

A digital certificate is a secure, encrypted file embedded within the E-Signature Card that verifies your identity and authorizes you to perform official actions within the UAE’s labour system. It acts as your digital fingerprint, ensuring that every document you sign or approve is traceable, authenticated, and legally recognized.

Why Is It Important?

The digital certificate allows authorized individuals, like business owners or PROs, to:

• Digitally sign employment contracts and official MOHRE documents
• Authenticate approvals for work permits and renewals
• Prevent identity theft or misuse of labour-related permissions
• Maintain a secure audit trail for all transactions within MOHRE’s system

Each E-Signature Card comes with a unique serial number and digital certificate registered to the MOHRE portal. This certificate ensures that:

• Only the verified user can log in and approve requests
• Any digital signature made is legally binding under UAE law
• The user’s actions are traceable and compliant with data protection standards

How does it work?

Once the card is issued, the holder can log in to the MOHRE portal or Smart Tasheel system using the embedded digital certificate. This login process ensures that only authorized individuals can access and submit official documents, approve transactions, or perform labour-related actions on behalf of the company.

Is It Mandatory?

Yes. Since physical signatures are no longer required for most labour processes, the digital certificate embedded in the E-Signature Card is a legal replacement. It is mandatory for:

• Company owners
• General managers
• Authorized PROs
• HR staff involved in government liaison

In short, the digital certificate is the technical backbone of your E-Signature Card. Without it, the card would not fulfill its purpose in automating secure digital approvals.

Validity and Renewal of the E-Signature Card

An E-Signature Card in the UAE is valid for 2 years from the date it’s issued. Once expired, it cannot be used to access MOHRE services, approve transactions, or submit any labour-related requests online.

Here’s how the renewal process works:

• You can renew it at any Tasheel center or through an authorized MOHRE service provider.
• Renewal generally requires re-submission of your Emirates ID and trade license, along with a new photo.
• You’ll also need to pay the renewal fee, which may vary slightly depending on the service center (typically AED 200–250).

Required Documents for Renewal

To complete the renewal, you’ll typically need to provide:

• A valid Emirates ID (copy)
• A valid trade license
• A recent passport-sized photo with a white background
• The existing E-Signature Card (if requested)

Failing to renew your card in time may result in:

• Temporary suspension of company access on MOHRE platforms
• Inability to process work permits, labour contracts, or visa applications
• Possible fines if delays affect employee processing

E-Signature Card vs Emirates ID – Are They the Same?

One common misunderstanding is that the E-Signature Card and Emirates ID are interchangeable. While both serve as identity documents in the UAE, they serve different purposes:

So, while the Emirates ID is essential for residency and public services, the E-Signature Card is strictly tied to employment and labour affairs.

Final Note:

If you’re planning to apply for an E-Signature Card or renew your existing one in 2025, make sure your company license and establishment card are up to date. For any assistance, visit a MOHRE-approved Tasheel center or refer to the official MOHRE website for the latest guidelines.

The UAE E-Signature Card is more than just a formal requirement, it’s a secure, government-recognized tool that empowers business owners, HR professionals, and PROs to manage employment processes digitally and efficiently. With its integration into MOHRE's online services and embedded digital certificate, it plays a vital role in authorizing and tracking official labour transactions.

As the UAE embraces smart governance, the E-Signature Card stands as a critical part of this transformation, bringing transparency, legal assurance, and operational ease to employers across all sectors