The country has a good economy, largely based on policies which are helpful for investors. Along with it, the ever-increasing population of expats, the country introduced the concept of Wage Protection System (WPS). As an initiative towards this, this system was designed back in 2009 so that workers may get their salaries at the appropriate time and complete. If you are interested to know how one can check WPS status for any company, this guide is sure to inform you of everything you need.

WPS is what?

The Wage Protection System is an initiative of the UAE government to ensure that workers are paid the salary agreed upon under their employment contract. It is a collaboration between the Central Bank of the UAE and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and it obligates all private sector employers in the free zones and other sectors to register with the WPS so that timely wages can be provided.

The WPS has been continually improved, and the most recent updates were implemented in 2022. These updates aim to make wage payments more efficient and protect employees better.

Why Check the WPS Status of a Company?

Checking the WPS status of a company is essential for various stakeholders, and here’s why:

Job Seekers

To a jobber, WPS status check at a firm proves that it satisfies the Labor requirements on salaries hence reducing cases of delayed wage among others.

Working Employees

Even working employees need to ensure if their employers registered with the system. They gain assurance in receiving their rightful earnings as set under their terms

• With a business partnership or investment, knowing the WPS status of a potential partner can help you understand how reliable they are and whether they follow the UAE rules. It will help in making the right decisions that impact your business.
• Knowing a company’s WPS status can help make smarter choices when looking for employment, evaluating a potential employer, or considering a partnership.

How to Find Out Whether Your Company has an Active WPS Status

You can obtain two statuses by inquiring at a company level through the MOHRE and directly with your bank. Here’s how to find each:

How to Check Company Status using the MOHRE Website

Using the MOHRE website to find a company status is an easy, quick procedure:

Open the MOHRE Official Website: Advance to the website of the MOHRE, the official portal.

• Go to Services: In the menu click on the section “Services”.
• New Enquiry Services From the list select “New Enquiry Services”.
• Company Information Choose “Company Information” from the list
• Enter Company Details Provide the number which you wish to inquire
• Status See The system will then display the information of the company and the current WPS status.

Or, you can reach MOHRE’s customer service through email, WhatsApp, or phone for support.

Checking WPS Status at Your Bank

If you are an employee or often deal with a company, your bank can check the WPS status of that company:

• Reach Out to Your Bank: Dial the customer service hotline or walk into a nearby branch.
• Speak with a Representative: Request to speak with a representative responsible for corporate or payroll services.

Company Details: Share the company name and its registration number with the bank official. You’ll likely be asked to verify your identity, of course, in case you’re inquiring as an employee of the company on your own account.

Request WPS Compliance Information: Ask for the status of WPS compliance of the company from the representative. The bank will check the internal systems, and you’ll get the status of WPS.

Frequently Asked Questions on WPS Status

How do I check whether my WPS is active for employees?

You may check whether you are active for WPS using the MOHRE website or mobile application or by logging on with your labour card number and Emirates ID.

How do I unblock the WPS status of a company?

To remove a block which has been activated against a particular company under the WPS, follow these:

Contact MOHRE. Reason why you’re blocked and advise.

Resolve Issues: Rectify all discrepancies in data, sufficient funds, and salary issues.

Settle Dues: Pay outstanding salaries and penalties.

Submit Documents: Submit relevant documents to MOHRE to settle the issues.

In complicated cases, consider a legal or HR expert.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with WPS?

Non-compliance with WPS will lead a company to experience fines and restraints. Payment of salaries in delay may incur penalties, suspension of work permits, and litigations against the company. In case of repeated offenses, there may be experienced warnings, fines, and downgrading of the classification of the company.

Conclusion

It is important for job seekers, employees, and business partners to understand how to check the WPS status of a company in the UAE. In short, verification of a company’s compliance with the Wage Protection System can be the best decision made in protecting one’s interests. You may opt to check your status on the MOHRE website or use your bank’s service. Nevertheless, knowing the details is crucial for smooth sailing through the UAE’s employment landscape. If you have further questions regarding labor laws or workplace disputes, you may find additional resources at MOHRE or seek professional advice.