UAE Passport Law 2026: Employee Rights, Employer Restrictions & Legal Penalties Explained

In the United Arab Emirates, employee rights are taken seriously — and that includes the legal protection of your passport. Under UAE passport law 2026, no employer or private organization is allowed to retain the passport of an employee, regardless of the job type or contract. Your passport is government property, and withholding it without legal authorization violates UAE labor and human rights laws.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the UAE’s passport law, including when employers can legitimately request your passport, penalties for violations, and how to file an official complaint.

Understanding UAE Passport Law

Why the Passport Belongs to the Government

Every passport clearly states that it is the property of the issuing government. Therefore, even if you are working or residing in the UAE, your employer has no ownership rights over your passport. It must remain in your possession unless temporarily submitted for visa or residency processing.

Authorized vs. Unauthorized Passport Submission

You are only required to hand over your passport to authorized entities such as immigration offices, embassies, or other official bodies — not to your employer, company HR, or recruitment agent.
Submitting your passport to unauthorized individuals is a violation of both UAE labor law and international worker protection standards under the International Labour Organization (ILO).

UAE Labor Law on Passport Holding by Employers

What the Law Says About Employers Keeping Passports

According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), employers cannot seize or retain employee passports. Doing so limits the worker’s freedom of movement and is equivalent to forced labor, which is a punishable offense.

Domestic workers and expatriates are equally protected under this law — their passports cannot be held by sponsors or hirers under any circumstance.

MOHRE’s Official Stance on Passport Confiscation

MOHRE explicitly classifies passport confiscation as an illegal act. The ministry encourages employees facing such issues to immediately report it via their hotline or online platform for swift action.

Fines & Penalties for Violating UAE Passport Law

Employers or companies found guilty of unlawfully withholding passports face severe penalties under UAE law:

• Fine: Between AED 5,000 and AED 20,000 per employee

• Imprisonment: Up to three years for repeated offenses

• Company liability: Corporate fines and potential suspension of trade license

These strict measures aim to ensure fair labor practices and protect foreign workers’ rights.

How to Reclaim Your Passport from an Employer

If your employer refuses to return your passport after the completion of visa processing, you have the right to demand its immediate return.

Legitimate Situations When Employers Can Request Passports

Employers can only hold passports temporarily for:

• Applying for or renewing residency visas

• Processing work permits or visa cancellations

Once the official task is completed, your passport must be returned without delay.
Any delay beyond this constitutes unlawful retention and can be reported.

How to File a Complaint for Passport Confiscation

Filing Through MOHRE

If your employer does not return your passport, you can lodge a complaint with MOHRE through these channels:

• Hotline: Call 800665 to speak directly with a MOHRE representative.

• Online: Submit a complaint via the MOHRE website or mobile app by selecting the “labor complaint” option.

Filing Through Police or Court

If the issue persists, file a report at your nearest police station. For severe cases, you may also initiate a court case under UAE labor law.
However, it’s always advisable to communicate first with your employer before escalating legally.

UAE Visa & Passport Validity Rules for Travelers

For travelers and tourists visiting the UAE in 2026, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
Whether you are applying for a UAE Transit Visa (48/96 hours) or a Tourist Visa, this validity rule is mandatory for all applicants.

Why You Should Always Apply Through Verified Channels

Applying for visas or submitting passports through unauthorized intermediaries can lead to scams, data misuse, or application rejection.
By using official and verified platforms like Emirates Transit Visa, you ensure:

• 100% secure document handling

• Fast visa processing within 24–48 hours

• Reliable customer support and transparency

Risks of Using Unverified Agents or Sharing Passport Copies

Unverified agents may misuse or retain your passport, which can lead to:

• Identity theft or fraud

• Unauthorized visa applications

• Legal consequences for false submissions

Always verify the agency’s registration and prefer platforms like Emirates Transit Visa, which comply with UAE government regulations.

How to Apply for an Emirates Visa

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for a UAE visa through Emirates Transit Visa is quick and convenient:

1. Visit the official Emirates Transit Visa portal.

2. Choose your visa type — 48-hour, 96-hour, 14-day, 30-day, or 90-day.

3. Upload your passport copy, photo, and travel details.

4. Pay securely online using a debit or credit card.

5. Receive your approved eVisa within 24–48 working hours.

Conclusion: Protect Your Passport, Protect Your Rights

Under UAE passport law 2026, no employer or private entity has the right to confiscate an employee’s passport. It remains the property of the issuing government, and withholding it violates both national and international labor standards.

If your passport is withheld, contact MOHRE (800665) or file a complaint online immediately. Protect your rights — and remember, legitimate visa processes never require surrendering your passport permanently.

Apply for your Emirates Visa through a verified platform today for a safe, fast, and hassle-free experience.

👉 Apply Now for Your Emirates Transit Visa and Travel with Confidence!