Dubai Company Registration Types:
Entering the UAE market requires obtaining crucial documentation, one of which is the establishment card. Whether you plan to set up your business
in Dubai Mainland or one of the Free Zones, the establishment card is essential for legal operation.
Introduction to the UAE Establishment Card:
What is an establishment card? It’s an official document issued by UAE Authorities in the jurisdiction where your company is incorporated. This card serves as proof that your business is legally authorized to operate within
the UAE. It contains the following information:
- Name of the company
- Card number
- Expiry date
Also known by other names such as:
- Establishment immigration card
- Establishment labor card
- Company Establishment Card (CEC)
- Corporation Immigration Card (CIC)
It’s important to note that an establishment card is different from a business license in the UAE, although both are necessary for running your business.
Importance of the UAE Establishment Card:
Obtaining an establishment card is a critical step for any business looking
to establish a presence in the UAE. Here’s why this document is essential:
● Proof of Operation: It demonstrates that your company
is legally registered and authorized to operate in the UAE.
● Work Authorization: This document is necessary to obtain work permits for your
employees.
● Utility Connections: Required for setting up utilities such as water,
internet, and electricity.
● Visa Applications: Needed when applying for residence visas for employees, investors, and partners.
An establishment card ensures your business can operate smoothly
and meet all regulatory requirements, contributing to overall business success in the UAE.
Issuance of the UAE Establishment Card:
Understanding the issuing authority is crucial. The responsible entities are:
● General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD) for businesses registered in Dubai.
● Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) for businesses registered in other Emirates.
Step by Step Application Guide:
After establishing your LLC or other business type in Dubai, follow these steps to obtain your establishment card:
1. Check Business License: Ensure your business license is uptodate.
2. Gather Required Documents:
3. Submit Application: Apply online or in person.
For Emirates other than Dubai:
- Via ICP’s Smart Services System (24/7)
- At Typing Centers during office hours
For Dubai:
- Through GDRFA D’s website
- At Customer Happiness Centers during office hours
The processing time is usually 48 hours, and it’s important to regularly check the validity to renew it timely.
2024 Updates & Changes:
The UAE continuously aims to simplify the process of obtaining an establishment
card. As of 2024, the main requirement is a valid business license.
The process has been streamlined for ease of access, allowing businesses to submit applications online and receive their establishment cards promptly.
Staying Informed: Latest in the
Establishment Card Process:
Applying for the establishment card is straightforward. Here’s how to do it online:
1. ICP Website:
● Visit the official ICP website
● Navigate to “Services for Organizations”
● Click “Issue Establishment Card”
● Register or log in with UAE Pass
● Fill in the required information
● Pay the service fee
● Receive the document electronically within 48 hours
2. Typing Centers:
● Visit a nearby Typing Center
● Submit the application and documents
● Pay the service fee
● Await email or text confirmation
● Collect the establishment card after approval
For Dubai Specific applications, the process is similar but conducted through
the GDRFAD website or Customer Happiness Centers.
Exploring the Costs: UAE Establishment Card Fees:
Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Here’s a breakdown:
Through ICP Website:
● Issuance fee: AED 200
● Electronic Service fee: AED 10
Renewal Costs via GDRFAD:
● Renewal fee: AED 100 per year (AED 200 total with 5% VAT)
● Service fee: AED 50
● Urgent processing fee: AED 100 (optional)
Renewal Costs via ICP:
● Application fee: AED 50
● Issuance fee: AED 200
● Electronic Service fee: AED 10
Sustaining Your Presence: Renewing Your UAE Establishment Card:
To avoid legal issues, renew your establishment card two months before expiry. Late renewals incur fines. The renewal process involves:
1. Gather Required Documentation:
As per jurisdiction requirements.
2. Submit Renewal Application:
In Dubai:
● Via GDRFAD website
● Under “Renewal of Establishment Card” in “Establishment Support Services”
In Other Emirates:
● Via ICP website
Wait 48 hours to receive the renewed card.
Conclusion: Launching Your UAE Venture:
Navigating the business landscape in the UAE requires thorough knowledge of legal frameworks. Securing your establishment card is a final step to ensure legal operation, enabling you to apply for visas, utilities, and work permits
seamlessly. By partnering with experienced service providers, you can simplify
the process and focus on growing your business.
Embarking on Your Business Journey with Confidence:
Setting up your company in the UAE can be straightforward with the right assistance. Contact us for help in starting your business and obtaining your establishment card, ensuring a smooth and successful entry into the UAE market.
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