أسئلة وأجوبة
Despite contract end, employer demands work till labor card expires
Hi, good day!
The contract I signed in the Philippines on February 9, 2022, was set to expire by February 9, 2024. I decided not to renew it and discussed this personally with my employer, who agreed.
However, she now informs me that I still need to work until March 23, 2024, as the labor card expires on that day. I entered the UAE on March 23, 2022, and the contract was signed while I was still in the Philippines.
Despite this, I have already decided not to continue working for personal reasons.
Could someone please explain what my options are?
Dear Questioner,
Thanks for your enquiry!
Regarding the above, we would like to inform you that, according to UAE labor law, an employment contract can only be terminated by mutual agreement between the employer and employee, or by one party giving notice to the other party.
In your case, it seems that you have already reached an agreement with your employer to not renew your contract.
However, since your labor card is expiring on March 23, 2022, your employer may require you to continue working until that date.
If you do not wish to continue working until March 23, 2022, you can try to negotiate with your employer for an earlier termination date.
If your employer does not agree, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) for early termination of your contract.
The MOHRE may mediate between you and your employer to reach a resolution.
Alternatively, you can also try to find a replacement for your position and present this to your employer as a solution for early termination.
This may be more acceptable to your employer as it ensures that the work will still be completed.
It is important to note that breaking an employment contract without mutual agreement or a valid reason can result in penalties, such as a ban from working in the UAE for a certain period of time.
Therefore, it is best to try to reach a mutual agreement with your employer or seek assistance from the MOHRE before taking any action.
Kindly feel free to contact me via phone or email.
Greetings,
