Introduction
One of the most common concerns among expatriates working in the United Arab Emirates is: can company keep my passport in UAE? Since passports are crucial legal documents for identification, travel, and residency, employees often worry when employers request to hold them.
In this guide, we’ll explain whether it is legal for a company to keep your passport in UAE, what the law says, and what you should do if your employer refuses to return it.
Can Company Keep My Passport in UAE?
The simple answer is no. According to UAE law, employers are not allowed to keep an employee’s passport. The passport is the property of the issuing government, and only the passport holder or an authorized official authority can keep it.
However, some companies may ask to hold passports temporarily for:
- Visa stamping procedures
- Residency permit applications
- Government-related formalities
Once these processes are completed, the passport must be returned to the employee.
UAE Law on Passport Retention
When asking can company keep my passport in UAE, it’s important to understand the legal framework:
- Ministerial Resolution No. 707 of 2006 clearly states that employers cannot confiscate employees’ passports.
- Holding passports against the employee’s will is considered illegal and can be treated as forced labor.
- Companies may face fines and penalties if found guilty of retaining passports unlawfully.
Exceptions to Passport Retention
While the answer to can company keep my passport in UAE is generally no, there are exceptions:
- Employers can keep passports temporarily for visa processing.
- Employees may voluntarily hand over their passport for safekeeping (but this must not be forced).
- Only UAE authorities (immigration, police, or courts) have the legal right to retain a passport in certain cases.
What to Do If Your Employer Keeps Your Passport
If you are facing this issue and wondering can company keep my passport in UAE, here are the steps you can take:
- Request your passport in writing – Politely ask HR or management to return it.
- File a complaint with MOHRE – Contact the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation.
- Seek legal advice – Consult a labor lawyer if the company refuses to comply.
- Contact your embassy – If necessary, report the situation to your home country’s embassy in the UAE.
Why Some Companies Still Keep Passports
Even though the answer to can company keep my passport in UAE is no, some companies continue the practice due to:
- Misunderstanding of the law
- Desire to control employee mobility
- Administrative convenience
However, employees must know their rights and stand against illegal practices.
FAQs on Can Company Keep My Passport in UAE
1. Is it legal for a company to keep my passport in UAE?
No, it is illegal for employers to hold passports.
2. Can I complain if my company keeps my passport?
Yes, you can file a complaint with MOHRE or seek legal action.
3. Can companies keep passports for visa stamping?
Yes, but only temporarily and must return it once the process is complete.
4. What happens if a company refuses to return my passport?
The company may face fines, and you can escalate the matter legally.
5. Can I give my passport voluntarily to my employer?
Yes, but it must be your choice and not forced.
Conclusion
If you are asking can company keep my passport in UAE, the answer is no, it is against UAE labor laws. Your passport is your personal property, and only you or the concerned government authority can legally keep it. Employers may hold it temporarily for visa purposes, but it must be returned immediately afterward.
Knowing your rights ensures you are protected and can take the right steps if your employer withholds your passport unlawfully.
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