أسئلة وأجوبة
How do I request my passport back from my employer after many refused requests?
Dear Lawyers,
How to request my passport back from my employer after many requests have been refused?
Dear Questioner,
According to UAE law, an employer is required to return an employee's passport upon request. If the employer refuses to return the passport, the employee can take the following steps:
1. Send a written request:
The first step is to send a written request to your employer, clearly stating that you need your passport back and the reasons for it. Make sure to keep a copy of the request for your records.
2. Seek assistance from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE):
If your employer still refuses to return your passport, you can file a complaint with the MOHRE. They have a dedicated helpline for labor-related issues and can assist you in resolving the matter.
3. File a case with the labor court:
If the MOHRE is unable to resolve the issue, you can file a case with the labor court. The court can order your employer to return your passport and may also impose penalties on the employer for violating labor laws.
4. Seek assistance from your embassy:
You can also seek assistance from your embassy in the UAE. They can provide you with legal advice and may also intervene on your behalf to help resolve the issue.
It is important to note that withholding an employee's passport is illegal in the UAE and can result in penalties for the employer.
For more details, please contact us via WhatsApp.
Dear Questioner,
As per UAE labor law, it is illegal for an employer to hold an employee's passport. If, after many follow-ups and email requests, the company is not releasing your passport, you need to file a complaint with MOHRE.
If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
Greetings,
The passport is a personal document and the employer has no right to withhold it. I can return it to you by giving him a legal notice or by submitting a request for an order on a petition to the judge of urgent matters.
For further inquiries about your topic, You can come to our office or contact us on WhatsApp at [-------].
Dear Inquirer,
We are pleased to serve you and address your inquiries. You can resort to the judiciary to obtain a ruling obligating the return of the passport.
If anything else is required, don’t hesitate to contact us via email or call our offices in Dubai or Sharjah.
Jasim Al Haddad Advocates & Legal Consultants
Hello,
According to UAE law, an employer must return an employee's passport upon request. If the employer refuses to do so, the employee can take the following steps:
The first step is to send a written request to your employer, clearly stating that you need your passport back and the reason for it. Make sure to keep a copy of this request for your records.
If your employer still refuses to return your passport, you can file a complaint with the MOHRE. They have a dedicated helpline for labor-related issues and can assist you in getting your passport back.
If the MOHRE is unable to resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the police. This is considered a criminal offense under UAE law and the police can take necessary action against your employer.
If all else fails, you can seek legal assistance from a lawyer or a legal aid center. They can help you file a case against your employer and represent you in court.
It is important to note that under UAE law, an employer is not allowed to hold an employee's passport unless it is for a valid reason, such as obtaining a work visa or processing travel documents.
If your employer is holding your passport without a valid reason, they are violating your rights and you have the right to take it.
Warm Regards,

Dear Questioner,
According to UAE laws, employers are not allowed to retain employees' passports after the completion of visa procedures.
The passport is the personal property of the employee and must be returned upon request. If your employer refuses to return your passport, you can take the following steps:
1. Send a Written Request:
Send a formal written request to your employer asking for the return of your passport. Keep a copy of the request and any related documents.
2. Contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE):
If the employer does not respond to your written request, you can file an official complaint with MOHRE. You can submit the complaint through:
- The MOHRE website.
- Visiting a MOHRE service center.
- Calling the MOHRE hotline at 80060.
3. Police:
If you are unable to retrieve your passport through MOHRE, you can go to the nearest police station and file an official complaint against your employer. The police may assist in retrieving your passport.
4. Labor Court:
If the previous steps do not resolve the issue, you can file a case in the labor court. The court may issue an order compelling your employer to return your passport and compensate you for any damages resulting from the unlawful retention of your passport.
5. Contact Your Consulate or Embassy:
If you are a non-UAE national, you can contact your country’s consulate or embassy in the UAE for assistance and support in this matter.
If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.