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How to cancel your residence visa in the UAE

• Basic Information

A UAE residence visa grants an individual the legal right to live, work, invest and access many government services and financial facilities in the country. However, it must be cancelled officially if you plan to leave the country permanently. Here is everything you need to know about the UAE visa cancellation process.

BASIC INFORMATION ON THE UAE VISA CANCELLATION PROCEDURE

Who can cancel your residence visa in the uae.

The individual/organisation who has sponsored you can cancel your residence visa. If you hold a UAE property investor visa or any other type of investor visa, you can initiate the process on your own. 

HOW CAN A COMPANY APPLY FOR THE UAE RESIDENCE VISA CANCELLATION?

If your sponsor is a company, they must first apply for the cancellation of your labour card and contract at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Your signature is mandatory on this application. Once they get a response from MOHRE, they can apply for visa cancellation via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).

Your company must cancel your work permit as well. However, this can’t be done without a letter signed by you stating that you have received your dues, gratuity, repatriation expenses and other benefits that you and your company agreed upon.

PROCESS TO CANCEL RESIDENCE VISA IN THE UAE

Via general directorate of residency and foreign affairs (gdrfa) dubai.

Once your company has applied for the cancellation of these documents, you will soon receive a clearance statement that will help you generate a visa cancellation request at GDRFA (The General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs).

If you have dependants under your residence visa, you should cancel their visas to proceed with your visa cancellation procedure in the UAE. There are two ways to do this: Visiting a typing centre or processing it online through the GDRFA official website.

• Head over to the GDRFA portal.
• Click on Services >> Residency Services >> Cancellation of residence visa >> Cancellation of all types of residence permits.
• On this page, click the red Start Service button on the left.
• Log into your UAE Pass account or create a new account (if you don’t have one). To create a UAE Pass account, you must download the UAE Pass app and scan your face.
• Fill out the application form with your passport details, visa numbers and nationality.
• Attach the required documentation, such as a copy of your residency visa (Emirates ID if it was not stamped).
• Pay the service fees.
• Submit your application.

REGISTERED TYPING CENTRES

• Head to the nearest Amer typing centre (Open from 08:00 am – 08:00 pm).
• They will assist you in filling out the corresponding form and submitting your documents.
• Pay the fee and submit your application.
• Service fee: AED 100
• Innovation fee: AED 10
• Knowledge Dirham: AED10
• Printing fee: AED 100 (Upon submitting via ZAJEL Courier Centre)

VISA CANCELLATION VIA FEDERAL AUTHORITY FOR IDENTITY, CITIZENSHIP, CUSTOMS & PORT SECURITY (ICP)

UAE sponsors can initiate a visa cancellation request via ICP. Here are the common methods.

Head to the ICP’s website – click Services for Individuals, and select Cancel Residency Permit.

• Click on ‘Start Service’
• You will be redirected to the Smart Services portal of ICP. This is where you click on Public Visa Services.
• Select ‘ Cancellation of Current Visa ‘ from the four menus on this page.
• Fill in your passport’s details, date of birth and nationality.

• A residency permit
• A trade licence (Partner or investor)
• Death certificate within the country (in case of death)
• You will be prompted to the payment page. This costs AED 100; you can pay with your credit or debit card.
• Once this is done, hit submit.
• Head to the nearest ICP typing centre
• Fill out the form
• Submit the documents
• Pay the fee
• Submit your request
• Wait for approval
• Order fee: AED 50
• E-services fee: AED 10

In addition to these two methods, you can cancel your visa through the ICP’s app, which is available for Apple and Android users.

The UAE visa cancellation process takes around 48 hours. However, there may be exceptions depending on public holidays or employer terms.

The validity of the visa depends upon its type and sponsor. If you hold a residence visa, refer to the Dubai visa status check by passport number to confirm its validity.

If you have a UAE residence visa and have been outside the country for more than six months, your visa will be cancelled. In this case, you cannot enter the country with your residence visa and will have to either get a visit visa or visa-on-arrival, depending on your nationality and country of residence.

However, if you’re employed by a company in the UAE and leave without resigning and following procedures, you risk being reported as an absconding person. This can lead to a travel ban, meaning you will be unable to enter the UAE and risk being arrested upon entry.

You must also pay off any loans, bills and other liabilities before leaving, as not doing these can risk legal consequences. We recommend following this procedure and collecting your visa cancellation proof (a stamp or paper) before leaving the UAE.

FAQs about the UAE visa cancellation process

What is the uae visa cancellation grace period.

The grace period to leave the UAE after the cancellation of the residency visa is between 60 and 180 days, depending upon the visa category.

Here is a complete breakdown of the grace period:

• Golden Visa/Green Visa holders and their family members
• Widows/Divorcees
• Students (who have finished their studies)
• Skilled professionals (first/ second level as per MOHRE classification)
• Skilled professionals (third level as per MOHRE classification)
• Property visa holders
• Normal residencies
• Other categories (visa-on-arrival holders and Prepaid visit visa.)

Staying in Dubai after the grace period ends will accrue a fine of AED 50 per day.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY EMIRATES ID WHEN THE RESIDENCE IS CANCELLED?

Previously, one could keep their Emirates ID even after cancelling UAE Residence. However, you will be asked to submit your Emirates ID to the GDRFA after cancelling your UAE Residence now. You must also submit your Emirates ID if switching jobs and changing your sponsor.

Note that after cancelling your UAE residence visa, your employer will be covering your medical insurance for the duration of the grace period. Since medical insurance is mandatory for living in the UAE, this will usually be active throughout your grace period.

CAN I RENEW MY UAE TOURIST VISA?

Yes, you can, given that you follow all the protocols for a Dubai tourist visa extension .

CAN I CANCEL MY UAE RESIDENCE VISA IF I’M OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY?

If you’re on an employment visa, contact your employers and request they cancel it. Talk to them about any liabilities or penalties, if applicable, make sure they cancel your residence. If your employer refuses to cancel your residence visa, contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to resolve the issue.

Please note that if you work for a freezone company in the UAE, both employer and employee must meet at the company’s headquarters to terminate the contract. For this, you should carry your passport and Emirates ID and get your UAE residence cancelled.

If you want to cancel a family member’s visa (dependent visa), you can easily do so without needing them in the country. All you need is a copy of the passport, Emirates ID, and the application typed out. You can do this from one of the typing centres in Dubai, and it will cost you AED 266, along with additional typing charges.

DO I HAVE TO EXIT THE UAE TO EXTEND MY STAY AFTER THE GRACE PERIOD?

After your UAE residence visa has been cancelled, you do not have to leave the country to extend your stay. You can apply for a tourist visa while in the country and pay the required charges (depending on the days you intend to stay).

That brings an end to our guide on the UAE visa cancellation process. Make sure to learn the latest guidelines for residency visas in the UAE before making any final decision. If you have any questions regarding your UAE residence visa cancellation, contact the General Directory of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) at 600-522-222.

If you are applying for residence visa, you will have to take a DHA medical fitness exam. Here is how you can check DHA medical fitness result .

Want to get a UAE tourist visa? Learn about a 5-year tourist visa in the UAE and see whether you want to apply.

For more information and updates, stay tuned to MyBayut.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

My uae visa alrady cansled, how could i request the cancalation later

Hello Madushan,

Thank you for reaching out. We would recommend you to discuss this matter with General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Here are the contact details of the GDRFA centre

Location : Close to Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai Festival City (Refer to https://goo.gl/maps/uqgXbEM8Yxxh4PXL6 ) Timings : 07:30 am – 02:00 pm, Fri-Sat: closed (Timings may differ due to the outbreak of Coronavirus pandemic) Contact : +971-800-5111

Hi my visa cancelation done and i have fly before 15th.. but in this situation no flight to india… how can i handle this situation…

Hello Dency,

Location: Close to Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai Festival City (Refer to https://goo.gl/maps/uqgXbEM8Yxxh4PXL6 ) Timings: 07:30 am – 02:00 pm, Fri-Sat: closed (Timings may differ due to the outbreak of Coronavirus pandemic) Contact: +971-800-5111

same my case my 28 day finish 7may but now no flight after 7th may fine or not ?

Hello Garry,

Thank you for reaching out. As per the current update, The UAE government has extended the validity of both residence and tourist visas until the end of 2020 so you can stay in the country unless flight operations resume. For more information, you can call GDRFA on 800 5111.

We hope this helps.

I need my visa canceled

Hello Amin,

Thank you for reaching out. Only the individual/company who has sponsored you can cancel your residence visa. If you hold an investor visa, you can initiate this process yourself.

There are two ways to carry out the visa cancellation procedure:

1. Visit a registered GDRFA typing centre

– Copies of your sponsor’s passport, – His/her visa page copy – Clearance statement for all financial liabilities – Your original Emirates ID card and passport

. Request GDRFA to cancel yours and your dependants’ visa

. Pay AED 110 cancellation fee

. Sign cancellation form

. Return to GDRFA head office with the same documents. The GDRFA representatives will take back your Emirates ID card and stamp your passport.

2. Cancel your visa online

– Submit visa cancellation application on GDRFA app or website – Once submitted, bring Emirates ID and original passport to the GDRFA office

We hope this helps. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

Hello!my name is Noman Rashid. My company cancel my labour card No fines on me.Now i want to cancel my visa to change my visa to other company. Tell me the requirements.Can i cancel my with own without company sponser?or company sponser is important for this cancellation process? If i cancel my own visa how much it will cost i want to fees of this process.

Hello Noman,

Thank you for reaching out. You will need to get it cancelled by your previous employer as only your sponsor has the authority to cancel your visa. The previous employer will also usually have to issue a no-objection NOC certificate in Arabic. When your new employer will apply for your visa, this certificate will be a testament to the cancellation of your old visa.

My visa will expired in 18th this month i have no flights right now, after 18th my company no pro Vide accommodation so what i do

Hello Shibil,

Thank you for reaching out. We would recommend you to call GDRFA at +971-800-5111 to get assistance regarding your matter.

Hello my name is Patricia. My visa is expiring tomorrow as I need to leave the country as soon as possible what should do , I need to extend my days

Hello Patricia,

Thank you for reaching out. Don’t worry, the UAE government has announced an exemption for those whose visas got expired during the flight suspension, so you will not need to leave the country. You can apply for a visa renewal during this time. To learn the procedure of visa extension, please refer to our post: https://www.bayut.com/mybayut/renewal-extension-tourist-visa-dubai/ .

If you have any more questions, feel free to write to us.

Hi Im at abu dhabi i want cancellation my family visas can is posible dubai family visa cancle in abu dhabi

Hello Ahmed,

Thank you for reaching out. We would advise you to call GDRFA on 800-5111 to get a clear information.

I want to Visa cancell and going Pakistan

Hello Tanveer,

Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing health crisis, the UAE government has suspended all flights, so you may not be able to visit Pakistan. What you can do is to wait unless the flight operations resume and request your sponsor to cancel your visa then. For more information, you can call GDRFA on 800-5111.

We hope this helps. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to us.

My visa cancel ordey April 21 is my last day but i want to extend my visa i want to stay her what can i do

Hello Zerihun,

Thank you for reaching out. Don’t worry, the UAE government has announced an exemption for those whose visas got expired during the flight suspension, so you will not need to leave the country. You can apply for a visa renewal after the exemption. To learn the procedure of visa extension, please refer to our post: https://www.bayut.com/mybayut/renewal-extension-tourist-visa-dubai/ .

If you have any more questions, feel free to write to us

What are the documents i need to sign for cancelation my visa

Hello Ramees,

Thank you for reaching out. You cannot cancel your visa, only your sponsor has the authority to apply for visa cancellation on your behalf. However, if you hold an investor visa, you can apply for the cancellation of visa. To do so, you will need the following documents:

– Copies of your passport and visa – Clearance statement for all financial liabilities – Your original Emirates ID card

We hope this helps. If you need any more information, feel free to reach out to us.

If ever my employer already cancelled my uae residence visa & i opt to stay here, will he still have the authority to file absconding case or ban me.. i plan to take inside the country visa change but some told me that it take 5-10days before that visa be approve & theres a risk employer will file absconding case with in that period of time while waiting for visa approval..

Hello Regina,

Thank you for reaching out. We would advise you to call GDRFA on 800-5111 to discuss this particular matter.

We hope this helps. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out.

Hi I am Romel i just want to asked if my visa was cancelled in this Pandemic, i need 30 days to stay here what if i need extra more days? I will provide visit visa? Thank you so much

Hello Romel,

Thank you for reaching out. Considering the safety measures implemented by the UAE government, permission may be granted to stay legitimately within the country post-visa-cancellation but that would vary from case to case. We would recommend you to put forth your query to GDRFA on 800 5111.

Hi i would like to ask how many days for the approval of your cancellation visa upon applying.. how many days to wait for the approval?thanks

Hello Mouvy,

Thank you for reaching out. It takes one to two days to get your visa cancelled in the UAE.

Good day! My contract has ended last April 22, 2020 my working visa will expire on May 1. Since this COVID 19 started I am wondering what is the current visa status of the foreign workers here in UAE I can’t go back to my country of origin and since the government has mandated the extension of visa validity until December 2020, does it also applies to me?

Hello Thea,

Thank you for reaching out. Yes, the directive issued by the government for the extension of visa validity applies to you.

Hello. Am currently working in Sharjah private company. I got a New job in Dubai. But is it possible to cancel the Visa now as er current situation

Hello Lathish,

Thank you for reaching out. The UAE government has extended the validity of both residence and tourist visas until the end of 2020 but if you still want to cancel your visa, we would recommend you to seek information from GDRFA on 800 5111.

Please! When will Dubai Immigration office will open??? When are they going to Start operating ?? Because I need My Visa Cancellation Paper, so that my new Company will process my Document.

I need Visa Cancellation Paper please!!!

Thank you for reaching out. If you have previously worked in a company in Dubai, your former employer may have your visa cancellation document. You can contact them to get your visa cancellation paper. For more information, you can email GDRFA, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs at [email protected] or call on 800-5111.

We hope this helps. Good luck!

Hi, my visa cancelled by the company my kid’s visa is under my name is it cancelled automatically when my visa cancelled -or i need to do some process and can i stay in UAE for next months as the grace period in the current situation

Hello Rajo,

Thank you for reaching out. We would advise you to discuss this matter with GDRFA on 800 5111 to get accurate information.

We hope you find this helpful.

hi, this is usman due to pandemic covid 19.I lost my job and my visa will b cancelled very soon. can I cancell my spouse visa after the cancellation of my visa because i am not sure the exact date of cancellation just received termination letter.can I cancell my spouse visa after the cancellation of my viza ?

Hello Usman,

Thank you for reaching out. The best department that can help you resolve your problem is Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. You can submit a query at [email protected] or talk to their helpline representatives on 6005-30003 to get immediate clarification regarding your matter. However, if you are living in Dubai, you can also seek assistance from GDRFA on their helpline: 800-5111

We really hope things work out for you. Good luck!

hello my visa is cancel 16th of May, I can stay until December?

Hello Mamta,

Thank you for reaching out to us. Yes, you can stay until December.

Have a great day!

My name is Ali Sajawal. The company has called me Visa, so how many days can I stay?

Thank you for reaching out to us. Normally, you have a 30 days period to leave the country and staying beyond that, makes you liable to fines. However, amid pandemic, you also have an option to change your visa status and continue living in the UAE. If you are planning to stay, make sure to change your visa status as soon as possible so you don’t have to pay fine.

Hello my visa is cancel 12th of may. I can stay until December. No issue of fine plz answer I am from india

Hello Simarjot,

Thank you for reaching out to us. Yes, you can stay in the UAE if you change your visa status. The process is simple. Go to a travel agency and get a visit visa. If you fail to change your visa status, you may be liable to fine.

Hope this helps!

Good afternoon,I would like to ask if I can stay here until December if my my company already cancelled my visa because I am finish contract? And I wnt to stay here but still I didn’t buy a new visa

Hello April,

Thank you for reaching out to us. According to the new directive issued by the UAE government, you can stay in the UAE if you change your visa status. Go to a travel agency and get a visit visa. If you need further information, you can call Amer centre on 800-5111.

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Can I Cancel My Visit Visa to UAE?

September 27, 2022 | 13 min read

Table of Contents

• 1Reasons to Cancel Visit Visa
• a. Inside UAE
• b. Outside UAE

Documents Required for Cancellation

In-country visa change, in-country visa change rates, how do i check if my uae visa is canceled or not, copy of the visa cancellation in uae, reasons to cancel visit visa.

To cancel your tourist/visit visa, your sponsor must request that it be cancelled and pay the cancellation fee. A few of the reasons you might need to cancel a UAE tourist, visit, or leisure visa are:

• You realize that you need to stay longer than the duration of the visit visa you applied for.
• Your company or spouse/family is applying for a resident permit for you (In this situation, it becomes mandatory to cancel the visit or tourist visa by paying the fee or else your residence permit can get rejected.)

Cancel Visa Inside or Outside UAE

Inside uae:.

If you have already entered the UAE with your tourist visa and are seeking employment here, you need to cancel your UAE tourist/visit visa and convert it into a residency visa. Since you have already utilized certain days of the visa, you will have to proceed with a status change from your tourist/visit visa to an employment/residency visa. This can be done while you are inside the country without the need to exit UAE.

Outside UAE

Individuals outside of the UAE don't need to apply for a visa change. Instead, they have to contact their visa provider, like Arabiers, to contact the sponsor to approve the visa cancellation.

To proceed with a visa cancellation, the following documents are required:

• Applicant’s original passport
• Sponsor’s original Emirati Identity Card
• Fully-filled cancellation form with sponsor's signature

The UAE inside-country visa change without exit is one of the most convenient visa change or renewal options available for individuals in the UAE. If you wish to perform a status change, an inside-country visa with a status change option will suit you.

You can also get travel insurance if you travel to the UAE on a visit visa. Here's how much it costs:

To confirm if your visa has been canceled you can follow these steps:

• 01   Visit the ICA website
• 02   Click on the ‘Passport information’ button.
• 03   Click on your visa type
• 04   Fill up your passport expiry date and passport number.

Select your nationality from the drop-down menu on the right. Upon doing so a matching number will appear on the left-hand side box.

Complete the Captcha verification and clic on the ‘search’ button. The results page will display your visa information and the visa expiry date.

You can approach the immigration authorities for it in person or receive it through your employer or service provider. Even though it's not necessary to process a new visa, your new employer might ask for this cancellation paper to process your visa.

Robeena Brown

It’s been amazing journey collecting, organizing & publishing UAE travel related information. We often hear our guests says it was some thing useful when I found Arabiers, that give me motivation to sit hours & hours with subject experts to extract right information that are useful but updated. I would love to write some thing that useful for any travelers, Recidents & locals, we at Arabiers trying our level best provide right information & aiming at updating our information page as much as we can, looking forward your feedback.

• See author's posts

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• [email protected]

UAE Visa Cancellation Guide

verified by : Andrey Ovchinnikov

• How to Cancel a UAE Visa in 2024

Required Documents

Cancelling a uae work permit and work visa, cancelling if you are changing jobs, cancelling for dependent family members, where to cancel a uae residence visa, residence visa cancellation for a person outside uae (longer than six months), cost of a uae visa cancellation, how long does it take, stay informed with emirabiz.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for tourists, professionals, and expatriates. With its diverse culture and rapid growth, the UAE offers numerous opportunities for individuals from around the world. However, there may come a time when you need to cancel your UAE visa, whether it be for personal reasons or due to changing circumstances. This comprehensive guide will outline the process and requirements for cancelling your UAE visa, including work permits and residence visas, as well as provide essential information on costs and timelines.

How to Cancel a UAE Visa in 2024

Cancelling a UAE visa in 2024 is a straightforward process, but it is essential to follow the appropriate steps and ensure all requirements are met. The cancellation process may vary slightly depending on the type of visa, but the general steps are as follows:

• Obtain a visa cancellation application form from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or download it from their website. In Dubai, visit an AMER center to cancel your visa. Important! If you live in the UAE with your family and sponsor their Family visas, you need to cancel the Family visas first and then apply for the cancellation of your own visa.
• Complete the form with accurate information and attach the required documents.
• Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the GDRFA or a registered typing center. In Dubai, it is an AMER center. Note that visas must always be cancelled at the same location where they were initially issued.
• Pay the visa cancellation fee which is around AED 500.
• Wait for the Visa Cancellation Paper sent to your email, which is typically issued within a few days. After receiving it, you have 28 days to either change your visa or depart the country. If needed, this period can be extended up to 60 days.

The required documents for visa cancellation may vary depending on the type of visa and your specific situation. Generally, the following documents are required:

• Completed visa cancellation application form
• Original Emirates ID
• Original passport and a copy
• Original visa or a copy
• Clearance letter from the MOHRE (for work permit and work visa cancellation)
• Sponsor's passport copy (for dependent family members)

If you hold a UAE work permit and work visa and wish to cancel it, the process involves coordination between you, your employer, and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). To cancel your work permit and work visa, follow these steps:

• Notify your employer of your intention to cancel the work permit and work visa.
• Your employer should initiate the cancellation process with the MOHRE.
• The MOHRE will issue a clearance letter confirming the cancellation.
• Proceed with the general visa cancellation process outlined above, using the clearance letter as one of the required documents.

If you are changing jobs within the UAE, your current employer must cancel your work permit. After that, you need to cancel your current work visa and apply for a new visa under your new job contract. This process is similar to the one outlined in the previous section. It is essential to coordinate with both your current and future employers to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any legal issues. Remember that you have 28 days for obtaining a new visa. Otherwise, there may be fines.

If you have dependent family members (spouse, children, or elderly parents) under your sponsorship, their visas must be cancelled before you cancel your visa. The sponsor must initiate the cancellation process for each dependent family member's visa. The process is similar to the general visa cancellation steps outlined earlier in this guide.

You can read more about Family visas in our guide UAE Family Visa Requirements - Required Documents, How to Apply, Cost of Family Visa in UAE .

Interesting fact! Large companies may sometimes arrange family visas for their employees.

You can cancel your UAE residence visa at the GDRFA office in the emirate where your visa was issued. Alternatively, you can submit the cancellation application and required documents at a registered typing center, which will then forward the documents to the GDRFA on your behalf. In Dubai, you can cancel visas in an AMER Center.

If you have been outside the UAE for longer than six months, your residence visa may be considered invalid. In such cases, you or your sponsor must apply for visa cancellation at the GDRFA office in the emirate where the visa was issued or in an AMER center in Dubai. Cancel your visas on time to avoid fines!

The cost of cancelling a UAE visa can vary depending on the type of visa, the emirate where it was issued, and any additional circumstances. Typically, the visa cancellation fee is about AED 500. Additional fines or fees may apply if you have overstayed your visa or if your residence visa has been considered invalid due to extended absence from the UAE.

The visa cancellation process usually takes a few days.

Cancelling your UAE visa is a crucial step when leaving the country or changing jobs, and it is essential to be aware of the process and requirements. By following the steps outlined in this guide and ensuring you have the necessary documents, you can smoothly navigate the visa cancellation process.

Emirabiz will help you to stay informed of any changes in visa regulations and requirements, as they may affect the cancellation process or your eligibility for a new visa. Contact our professional consultants for any questions or assistance.

Key points about UAE visa cancellation

• Visas are cancelled by the same authorities that issued them
• Family visas in Dubai are issued and cancelled in an AMER Center
• Cancel your visa if you are leaving the UAE for longer than 6 months
• Visa cancellation takes a few days
• Residency Cancellation Paper serves as the visa cancellation proof
• Cancel your visa in due time to avoid fines
• You can apply for a Visa Hold for at least 28 days

Cancel a UAE visa today

Before you make choice - watch this video

When might family visa cancellation be necessary?

• Departing the country
• Termination of employment or job change

How much is visa cancellation in the UAE?

The fee for visa cancellation is 500 AED.

What is the proof of visa cancellation?

The Residency Cancellation Paper serves as proof, specifying the time frame within which the individual must obtain a new visa or leave the country. This period is 28 days and can be extended up to 60 days upon request.

What are the penalties for overstaying the allowed period in the UAE?

Fines begin on the first day of delay. The fine for the first day of overstay is 360 AED, followed by 50 AED for each subsequent day. Fines must be paid before leaving the country or obtaining a new visa. If the fine is substantial, you can request a reduction, for example during religious holidays such as Ramadan.

Can a child be expelled from school if their family visa is cancelled or suspended?

A child's Emirates ID and visa are required for school registration. If the child's visa is suspended or cancelled while awaiting a new one, they can continue attending school without issues. Problems may arise if enrollment coincides with visa cancellation or suspension; in this case, you must wait for a new visa. However, schools are often understanding.

What is Visa Hold?

Visa Hold refers to a temporary suspension of your visa. Visas are not cancelled but remain active in the system with a temporary hold status. This may be necessary if the family visa sponsor changes the job and needs to reissue their visa. Visa suspension is free, but the government will retain a deposit of 3,000 to 5,000 AED for each visa suspended, depending on the Emirate. The deposit is refunded after the family visa is reissued under the new sponsor visa. You have 90 days to reissue your visa. Note that suspended visas are typically available within the same Emirate!

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Track visa application and validity

For the emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, check the status of your visa application and its validity on the website of Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security - ICP. For the emirate of Dubai, check the status of your visa application and its validity on the website of General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (DNRD).

Track visa application

Check visa validity (issuance and expiry dates).

To track your visa application, you need the application number and reference number. When you submit your visa application to any visa service provider, ask them to give you the application number and reference number so you can track the visa yourself through the channels mentioned herein.

• If you applied for a visa to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah  track your visa application on the website of Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) .
• If you applied for Dubai visa or through Amer centres in Dubai, track your visa application through General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai

Users can enquire about the status of GDRFA service through the DubaiNow app .

Where to apply for entry permits or visas?

• If you already have an entry permit/residence visa to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah  check your visa validity on the website of Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security- ICP .
•  If you already have an entry permit/residence visa in Dubai,  check your visa validity  through the website of General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai.

Alternatively, for any enquiry regarding visa issuance, types and validity, communicate with ICP  at the toll free number 600522222 or through ICP feedback platform. 

For Dubai visas, contact Amer service on the toll free number 800 5111 if you are living in the UAE. If you are outside the UAE, call Amer on the toll free number +9714-313-9999.

For more information, please contact:

• The UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai

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UAE Digital Government issues advisory for expats on residence visa cancellation

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Residency file must be closed properly to avoid issues in case you want to return someday

Abu Dhabi: You must ensure your UAE residence visa is cancelled properly when you decide to leave the country permanently, as failure to close the residency status may result in complications in case you want to return to the UAE in the future.

The advisory has been shared on the website of the UAE Digital Government (u.ae).

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Expats relocating to another country must also cancel the UAE visa of residents whom they have sponsored, such as family members.

The UAE Digital Government, through its website, states: “If you a have a [UAE] residence visa sponsored either by a family member or by your employer, and you decide to leave the country permanently, your residence visa must be cancelled officially.”

The website points out: “Normally, only the sponsor can cancel your residence visa. You cannot process the application on your own.”

• 8 things to take care of before leaving the UAE
• How to check your grace period after UAE residence visa cancellation
• 10 things to know about the new updated UAE visa system

What companies must do

If a company decides to cancel an employment visa of its employee, it must first approach Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) with an application to cancel the employee’s labour contract and labour card. The employee must also sign this application. Then, the employer should apply to ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security) for visa cancellation.

The company must also cancel the work permit. For this, it must submit a letter to MoHRE signed by the employee stating that he or she has already received all the dues, wages and end of services benefits from the employer.

What about individuals who are sponsors?

Individuals sponsoring their spouse, children and other dependents must cancel their dependents’ visas before they cancel their own visa. It normally costs around Dh110 to cancel the visa.

The UAE Digital Government explained that according to the procedures, only the sponsor or someone they delegate on their behalf (such as a PRO, for example, in the case of companies) can proceed with cancelling the residence visa of someone they have sponsored. The sponsored person cannot implement the request without the permission and signature of the sponsor.

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Uae: visa cancellation process after job loss or resignation explained, types of visas you could apply for to continue staying in the country legally without attracting fines, by ashish mehta.

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Question: I might lose my job. If I have my family here in the UAE under my sponsorship, how does the company go about cancelling my visa? How long can I stay here? At the end of that period, how can my family and I continue staying here legally?

Response: Pursuant to your queries, it is assumed that you are employed by a mainland private sector company incorporated in the UAE and your residency is sponsored by your employer. Therefore, the provisions of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 Concerning the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Employment Relations (the ‘Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022) and the provisions of Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021 Regarding the Entry and Residence of Foreigners (the ‘Immigration Law’) are applicable.

Upon termination of employment or resignation, the employer needs to cancel your work permit once you sign the cancellation document. This is in accordance with Article 7(3) of the Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, which reads as:

“Procedures for cancelling work permits:

a. Submission of an application for cancellation of work permit via the channels specified by the Ministry.

b. Completion of the required information and attachments.

c. Payment of fines for delay in issuance or non-renewal of work permits, if any.

d. Declaration by the Establishment that the employee has received his entitlements.

e. Any other conditions specified by decision of the Minister, or his delegate.”

Thereafter, your employer should proceed to cancel your residency visa. However, if you have sponsored your family members’ residency, then you must cancel their visas first.

Grace period

Further, in the UAE once a residency visa is cancelled, an individual may reside in the country for a grace period of 30 days, which is including the date of cancellation. During this period, you should either leave the country or change your status of stay. If you find a new employment during the grace period, you may request your new employer to apply for a work permit and change your residency status before the grace period expires.

If you manage to find a new job

Alternatively, if you get a new job, you may hold on to your family members’ visas as your new employer applies for your work permit and residency visa. Holding on to dependents’ visa while transferring your residency visa from one employer to another is subject to approval of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (the ‘GDRFA- Dubai’) or Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (the ‘ICA’) — depending on your salary and designation with the new employer.

The GDFRA - Dubai and the ICA are usually very prompt is granting their decision in such matters.

If the same is not approved, you may have to cancel your family members’ residency.

Other options

Further, if you do not find employment during the grace period, you may obtain visit visas for yourself and your family members. You may also obtain an investor visa and thereafter sponsor the residency visas of your family members as well. For more information regarding the said matter, you may contact the GDRFA-Dubai or ICA.

Overstay fines

If you overstay in the UAE beyond the grace period, it shall attract a penalty which is payable to the GDRFA-Dubai or ICA. This is in accordance with Article 11 of the Immigration Law, which states: “Every foreigner whose visa or residence permit has been canceled or whose residence has expired with the expiry of the visa or residence permit period, and does not initiate renewal, In cases where this is permissible - or if he did not leave the country within the periods specified by the executive regulations of this Decree-Law, an administrative fine shall be imposed on him for each day in which he resides illegally in the country as of the date of the expiry of these periods by a decision of the Council of Ministers the value of this fine.”

Ashish Mehta is the founder and Managing Partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates. He is qualified to practise law in Dubai, the United Kingdom and India. Full details of his firm on: www.amalawyers.com. Readers may e-mail their questions to: [email protected] or send them to Legal View, Khaleej Times, PO Box 11243, Dubai.

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