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UAE Employment Visa Cancellation Process – Step-by-Step Guide

If an employee leaves a job in the United Arab Emirates, the employer must cancel the employment visa before the worker can leave the country or change jobs.

Visa cancellation is an important legal process handled through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.

Below are the main steps involved in the UAE employment visa cancellation process.


1. Resignation or Termination

The visa cancellation process usually starts when:

  • The employee submits a resignation letter, or
  • The employer terminates the employment contract.

Both parties must follow the notice period mentioned in the labour contract.


2. Employer Initiates Visa Cancellation

After the employment contract ends, the employer starts the visa cancellation request.

The request is submitted through:

  • Government service centers
  • Online government portals
  • Authorized typing centers

The employer must confirm that all employment obligations are completed.


3. Settlement of Employee Benefits

Before visa cancellation, the employer must complete the final settlement.

This may include:

  • Pending salary
  • End-of-service benefits (gratuity)
  • Unused leave salary
  • Any allowances due to the employee

Employees should carefully review their final settlement document.


4. Labour Contract Cancellation

The employer submits a request to cancel the labour contract through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation system.

The employee must approve this cancellation.

Sometimes employees may receive a SMS or email notification to confirm the cancellation.


5. Residence Visa Cancellation

After labour contract cancellation, the employer cancels the residence visa through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.

Once approved:

  • The residence visa becomes invalid.
  • The employee’s legal residency ends.

6. Emirates ID Cancellation

The Emirates ID is automatically cancelled when the residence visa is cancelled.

In some cases, employees may be asked to return the Emirates ID card.


7. Grace Period

After visa cancellation, the employee usually receives a grace period to stay in the UAE legally.

This period may vary depending on visa category but is often 30 to 60 days.

During the grace period, the person can:

  • Search for a new job
  • Apply for a new visa
  • Leave the UAE without penalties

8. Status Change or Exit

After cancellation, the employee has two main options:

Change Status

The employee can transfer to a new employment visa if another company offers a job.

Exit the Country

If the employee is leaving the UAE, they must exit before the grace period ends to avoid fines.


9. Travel After Visa Cancellation

Once the visa is cancelled, the employee can travel outside the UAE.

However, if they plan to return for another job, the new employer must start a new visa process.


Important Tips for Employees

Before visa cancellation, make sure to:

  • Check your final salary and gratuity
  • Confirm visa cancellation status
  • Keep copies of important documents
  • Ensure there are no fines or legal cases

Conclusion

Visa cancellation is a normal part of the employment process in the United Arab Emirates. It ensures that employment records are properly closed before an employee changes jobs or leaves the country.

Understanding the visa cancellation process helps workers avoid legal problems, fines, or travel restrictions.

 

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