Are you planning to bid farewell to the UAE or switch paths within this dynamic country? Navigating the visa cancellation process can be as daunting as the desert heat. This guide shines a light through the haze of bureaucracy, paving your way to a smooth transition. With precise steps, you’ll avoid legal pitfalls and fines by understanding the essentials of UAE visa cancellation.
Whether your journey leads you away from the UAE or to a new opportunity within its borders, this article is your compass for ensuring everything’s legally squared away. Engage with this guide to confidently cancel your visa and take the next step in your adventure.
Cancelling an Employment Visa
If you are leaving Dubai permanently, your employer must cancel your work permit and labour contract with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This is an essential first step, as your residence visa can only be cancelled once the work permit is revoked.
To get visa cancellation of the work permit, your employer will need the following:
- Your signature on the visa cancellation application form
- A letter from you confirming receipt of all due salary, leave salary, gratuity payments, and other end-of-service benefits.
- Approval from MoHRE to cancel the labour contract
- Application to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) to officially cancel the residence visa
It is crucial to ensure your employer has settled all financial dues and provided an air ticket home before initiating the cancellation process.
If you are changing jobs within Dubai, your current employer must still cancel your existing work permit before you leave the country, and your new employer can apply for a new work permit and visa on your behalf. To avoid any complications or employment ban, obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer, clearly consenting to the cancellation of your work permit.
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Cancelling a Family Visa
As the sponsor of family members in Dubai, you must cancel their residence visas before you can cancel your residency visa. This rule applies even if your family members have already exited the country.
Suppose your spouse is working in Dubai independently on their employment visa. In that case, their company must cancel their work permit and residence visa.
It is advisable to check the visa status of all dependents to ensure cancellation has been completed before initiating your own visa cancellation process.
Cancelling Investor, Student, Tourist and Other Visas
For people in Dubai on other types of visas, such as investor, student, tourist visa, or temporary visas, the cancellation process can usually be handled digitally. Options include using the ICP website or smart app or visiting an Amer Service Center.
The applicant must submit all compulsory documents, pay the applicable visa cancellation fees, and obtain the official visa and cancellation fee approval letter by email. The entire process may take 1-2 working days for most visa types.
Grace Periods for Exit after Cancellation
Once a visa has been officially cancelled, the visa holder will have a specified grace period to either exit Dubai or secure a new visa. Overstaying beyond the grace period can lead to daily fines.
For residents sponsored by employers or family, the grace period is 30 days from the date of the cancellation confirmation letter.
Visit visa holders have a shorter grace period of only ten days. It is important to stay within this timeframe to avoid incurring any fines.
Some other select long-term residence visas, such as the Green Visa, have a 6-month grace period. Visa holders should check the regulations for their specific visa category.
Documents Required for Visa Cancellation
To successfully cancel a visa in Dubai, individuals are required to submit certain documents. The key documents include:
- Original passport
- Original Emirates ID card
- Visa cancellation application form signed by the sponsor
- Copy of sponsor’s passport
- No liability certificate from the bank
- Entry permit copy, if applicable
- Death certificate, if the visa holder is deceased
Additional documents may be needed depending on visa validity and the specific situation. It is advisable to check the requirements before visiting any visa cancellation service centres.
Pre-Cancellation Checklist
Before fully completing the visa cancellation process, it is important to finalise certain matters to avoid future complications:
- Settle any outstanding utility bills and close accounts
- Terminate tenancy contract properly and vacate accommodation
- Sell or make arrangements to transfer vehicles
- Close bank accounts and obtain no liability letter
- Check visa and health insurance validity period
- Obtain educational certificates for children
- Settle any debts and obtain clearances
- Consult a lawyer or tax advisor about any liabilities
Using this checklist will help ensure a smooth departure from Dubai.
Confirming Visa Cancellation
It is highly recommended to double-check the employment visa cancellation status on the ICP website before taking any major steps, such as closing bank accounts or booking return flights. Although rare, there can be errors in the system, so verifying cancellation helps avoid problems.
Those travelling outside Dubai waiting for visa cancellation approval should be cautious about re-entry, even within the grace period. There have been instances where individuals were denied entry as the system still showed an active visa.
With proper planning and diligently following procedures, the visa cancellation process in Dubai can be completed smoothly. Paying attention to detail and getting assistance from qualified professionals is key to avoiding complications when cancelling your UAE visa.
Visa Cancellation FAQS
Can I Exit UAE Without Visa Cancellation?
You must exit the UAE with proper visa cancellation. If your residence visa is not formally cancelled, you could face legal complications, such as fines or a travel ban. Ensuring your visa is correctly cancelled before leaving the country is crucial.
How Long Does It Take To Get A UAE Visa Cancelled?
The visa cancellation process in the UAE typically takes 1 to 5 working days. However, this duration can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the efficiency of the various government services and departments involved.
What Is The Fine For Visa Cancellation In UAE?
There is no fine for the process of visa cancellation itself. However, suppose you overstay your visa after its expiry or after your employment has ended. In that case, you may incur penalties for the period of overstay.
Can I Keep My UAE Bank Account After Visa Cancellation?
Yes, in most cases, you can keep your UAE bank account after your visa is cancelled. However, the account status may change from a resident to a non-resident account, which might have different terms and fees. It’s advisable to check with your bank for specific policies.
What If My Employer Won’t Cancel My Visa In The UAE?
Suppose your employer refuses to cancel your UAE visa. In that case, you can approach the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) or the relevant Free Zone Authority if employed within a Free Zone. They can provide assistance and mediation in resolving such disputes. It’s essential to address this issue legally to avoid potential complications.
