What should you do if your employer is deducting money from your salary to cover the costs of recruiting and obtaining your visa?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in the UAE recently addressed this issue through its social media platforms. They shared the story of a worker based in the UAE who faced a similar predicament.
In a video posted on their official social media channels, MOHRE recounted the worker’s experience of discovering that a portion of his monthly salary was being withheld to cover recruitment expenses. After filing a complaint with MOHRE, the worker not only received his full salary but also received reimbursement for the deducted amount.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, it is crucial to take action. Start by contacting the relevant authorities, such as MOHRE, to report the issue and seek resolution. Employers should not be deducting money from your salary without your consent or in violation of labor laws.
Remember, it is your right to receive your full salary as agreed upon in your employment contract. By addressing the problem promptly and seeking assistance from the appropriate channels, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you are treated fairly in the workplace.
“Dear employers, we value and appreciate everything you give to the UAE. We are committed to preserving the rights of employees and provide all means of support and assistance to them. We call on you to follow the labour law and protect employees’ rights and ensure providing a suitable work environment that helps them succeed and flourish,” the Ministry stated.
What does the law say?
Article 6 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, commonly known as the Labour Law, addresses the crucial matter of worker recruitment and employment. It explicitly states that no worker can be employed unless they have obtained a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This requirement ensures that all workers are legally authorized to work in the country.
Furthermore, Clause 4 of the Article strictly prohibits employers from collecting any form of recruitment or employment costs from the workers. This prohibition applies to both direct and indirect methods of collection. By implementing this provision, the law aims to protect workers from any financial burden associated with their recruitment and employment.
Now, let’s delve into the specific details outlined in this significant article.
ARTICLE (6) – RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT OF WORKERS
- No work may be performed in the UAE, and no worker may be recruited or employed by any employer without obtaining a Work Permit from the Ministry, as outlined in this Decree-Law and its Executive Regulations.
- The Executive Regulations of this Decree-Law will establish the conditions, controls, types of Work Permits, and the procedures for granting, renewing, and canceling them.
- It is strictly forbidden to engage in recruitment activities or act as a mediator in the recruitment or employment of workers without a license from the Ministry, by the conditions and procedures specified in the Executive Regulations of this Decree Law.
- Employers are prohibited from charging workers or collecting any recruitment or employment costs from them, whether directly or indirectly.
- The Minister, in collaboration with relevant entities in the UAE, will issue decisions that regulate the types of work for which recruitment and employment of workers are prohibited, along with the corresponding requirements.
Who can one call?
If you have any inquiries regarding the regulation of labor laws, please feel free to contact the Labour Claims Centre at MOHRE on 800 84. Our team of experts is dedicated to assisting you with any concerns or questions you may have regarding labor regulations.
Also Read: Family residence visa in the UAE: 9 requirements you need to meet
