pro card dubai 2026 - application, renewal, fees & documents for uae companies

PRO Card Dubai 2026: Complete Guide to Company Immigration, Application, Renewal & Fees

25-Oct-2025 0 Comments 0 Views

The PRO Card in Dubai is one of the most critical components for businesses operating in the UAE. Whether you are a small startup or a large enterprise, a Public Relations Officer (PRO)—also known as a Government Liaison Officer—ensures your company’s documentation and immigration activities comply with UAE law.

This comprehensive 2026 guide explains everything you need to know about the PRO Card Immigration Department Dubai, including eligibility, required documents, application procedures, fees, and renewal process.

What Is a PRO Card in Dubai and Why Is It Important?

A PRO Card (Public Relations Officer Card) is an official authorization issued by the Dubai Immigration Department (GDRFA) to an individual or company representative, allowing them to carry out all immigration and labour-related transactions on behalf of the business.

This includes visa applications, company registration, trade licensing, labour permits, Emirates ID processing, and more. Without a valid PRO card, companies cannot legally handle immigration or Ministry of Labour operations in the UAE.

Role of PRO Card in Immigration and Company Operations

How the PRO Card Supports Visa and Labour Transactions

The Immigration PRO Card Dubai allows authorized representatives to manage key processes such as:

  • Employee visa issuance and renewals

  • Labour card and work permit processing

  • Company immigration card renewals

  • Submissions to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)

Why Every UAE Company Needs a PRO Card

Every registered UAE company—whether local or free zone—must maintain a valid PRO card to handle official documentation legally. It helps:

  • Prevent fines for delayed visa renewals

  • Ensure smooth immigration procedures

  • Enable employee onboarding and offboarding efficiently

Eligibility for PRO Card in Dubai (2026 Update)

In 2026, companies applying for a PRO Card in Dubai must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • The establishment must be legally registered and have a valid trade license.

  • The company must hold a valid Establishment Card from the Immigration Department.

  • The applicant (PRO) must have a residence visa under the same company.

  • Only UAE or GCC nationals are permitted to apply as PROs in some sectors, depending on company size and activity.

Documents Required for PRO Card Application

Documents for UAE or GCC Nationals

  • Completed PRO card application form

  • Copy of UAE national’s passport and family book

  • Valid certificate of good conduct from Dubai Police

  • Commercial license copy

  • Copy of the establishment (immigration) card

  • Passport-size color photograph

Documents for Expatriate PROs and Free Zone Delegates

  • Passport and residency visa copy

  • Labour card copy

  • Signed specimen card of the company

  • Certificate of good behavior (for expatriates)

  • Business license copy

  • Passport-size photo

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a PRO Card in Dubai

Online Application Through GDRFA or Authorized Channels

  1. Visit the GDRFA Dubai online portal.

  2. Fill out the PRO card application form.

  3. Upload the necessary documents.

  4. Pay the prescribed application fees.

Physical Submission at Immigration Department

Alternatively, companies may apply through the Dubai Immigration Office by submitting all documents in person.

Payment and Collection Procedure

After verification, pay the issuance fee and collect your PRO card through courier or directly from the immigration department.

PRO Card Fees in Dubai for 2026

Fee Breakdown by Category

  • Non-UAE citizen:

    • Application: USD 27

    • Issuance: USD 136/year

    • Optional urgency fee: USD 27

    • Courier (Zajel): USD 6

  • Government delegate:

    • Application: USD 13

    • Issuance: USD 27/year

  • Free zone delegate:

    • Application: USD 13

    • Issuance: USD 68/year

  • UAE citizen PRO:

    • Application: USD 13

    • Issuance: USD 27/year

Additional Costs (Urgency & Courier Options)

Companies can opt for express processing and courier delivery for faster turnaround.

Validity and Renewal Process for PRO Card Dubai

Renewal Timeline and Required Documents

The PRO Card validity is typically two years. Renewal must be completed before expiry to avoid penalties. Required documents include:

  • Valid trade license

  • Updated establishment card

  • Old PRO card copy

  • Renewed residence visa of the PRO

How to Avoid Fines and Delays During Renewal

Ensure timely renewal at least 30 days before expiration, verify document accuracy, and clear any pending immigration dues.

Rules and Regulations for PRO Card Holders in the UAE

Legal Requirements and Restrictions

  • The PRO must have a valid residence visa under the same establishment.

  • The card must remain valid throughout the employment period.

  • Applicants must be 18 years or older.

  • Only UAE female citizens can apply for the PRO role in certain categories.

PRO Card for Companies with Over 100 Employees

If a company has 100 or more employees, the PRO must be a UAE or GCC national. Smaller firms may assign a single PRO across multiple entities.

PRO Card vs Establishment Card: Key Differences Explained

Which One Does Your Company Need?

  • Establishment Card: Identifies the company with the immigration department.

  • PRO Card: Authorizes an individual to handle the company’s immigration transactions.
    Both are mandatory for conducting legal business activities in Dubai.

PRO Card Cancellation Process in Dubai

Companies may cancel the PRO card in case of termination or business closure by submitting a cancellation request through GDRFA along with:

  • Valid trade license copy

  • PRO card copy

  • Cancellation letter signed by the authorized signatory

Benefits of Using Professional PRO Services in Dubai

Risk of DIY Applications and Common Mistakes

Handling PRO card applications without professional assistance can lead to:

  • Rejected applications

  • Delays in visa issuance

  • Fines for incomplete documentation

Why Choose Professional Assistance for PRO Card Processing

Using expert PRO services in Dubai ensures error-free documentation, timely renewals, and full compliance with UAE immigration laws.

Conclusion – Apply for Your PRO Card in Dubai Easily

Obtaining and managing a PRO Card in Dubai is essential for smooth company operations and legal compliance. Whether you are applying for a new card or renewing an existing one, following the right process saves time, money, and effort.

Let our team handle the complexities of your PRO card immigration Dubai process — apply with confidence today.

👉 Apply for your Dubai Visa or PRO Card assistance now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Only if all branches operate under the same trade license and establishment card. Otherwise, each entity must have its own dedicated PRO card issued by the immigration department.

No, the PRO card is not transferable. When company ownership changes, the new owner must apply for a new PRO card under their updated establishment details.

No, a valid establishment card is mandatory before applying for a PRO card in Dubai. The establishment card links your business to the immigration department, allowing official authorization to process employee visas and other government documentation.

If your PRO card expires, your company may face penalties or delays in processing immigration transactions. It’s advised to renew at least 30 days before expiry to maintain uninterrupted operations.

Typically, the approval process takes between 3 to 7 working days, depending on document verification and the workload at the immigration department. Using a professional PRO service can speed up the process significantly.

Yes, companies located in Dubai Free Zones such as DMCC, DAFZA, or Dubai South can apply for a Free Zone PRO card through their respective authorities, ensuring compliance with zone-specific immigration rules.

Yes, Dubai has introduced digital PRO cards through authorized online platforms under GDRFA, allowing companies to manage immigration operations electronically and reduce paperwork.

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