Are you the one who is going to leave a job and move forward to relocate from the UAE? Knowing that it requires important processes to ensure a smooth transition. Before making this decision, you must understand visa cancellation procedures. It is crucial for both employees and employers to know about the final settlement.
In this blog, we share:
- The key steps involved in visa cancellation
- Employee and employer rights and obligations
- How to check visa cancellation status
By doing so, it ensures a successful conclusion to your UAE employment experience
So, let’s get started without wasting a minute!
Cancel your UAE visa
Individual who wants to end their stay in the UAE must cancel their residence visa. Typically, this process requires you to collaborate with your employer. Also, you will need to contact GDRFA.
As an employee, you must understand the steps. Following proper procedures ensures a smooth visa cancellation. It also avoids any complications that may arise in your future endeavors.
Canceling an employment visa in Dubai
In Dubai, to end the employment or job requires canceling your work visa. The very first step is to collaborate with your organization’s employer. On collaborating, the employer first cancels your labor contract. Also, your work permit will be terminated by the MOHRE.
Once this process is completed, the visa cancellation process has been initiated with the GDRFA.
At this point, you may be required to clear any outstanding dues with your employer before finalizing the cancellation.
What should you do before your UAE visa gets canceled?
Both employees and employers are expected to follow some steps before the UAE visa cancellation. The steps involved are:
Clear outstanding dues:
The employer is required to settle any outstanding dues. It includes:
- Final salary payments
- Any owed bonuses, and
- Any accrued vacation pay.
Employees should ensure they have written confirmation of receiving everything they’re entitled to.
Exit formalities:
Before exiting your current job, the employee must return company properties to the employer. These properties include:
- Laptops
- Uniforms
- ID cards
It’s also important to confirm the official date of your employment termination.
Settle outstanding debts: It is essential to clear any outstanding debts, such as credit card dues, utility bills, or outstanding loans. It is necessary to do so to avoid facing legal repercussions
Emirates ID Cancellation: On finalizing the visa cancellation process, now you need to cancel your Emirates ID card.
Closing bank accounts: Ensure that you close your bank accounts in the UAE to avoid unnecessary fees.
NOC: If you have a plan to visit again the UAE for employment purposes, you can ask your employer to issue an NOC. By doing so, you can simplify the process.
Where do sponsors cancel the visa?
 Generally, the sponsors initiate visa cancellations at the offices of GDFRA for their employees in the UAE. The GDRFA office will depend on the emirate where the visa was originally issued.
Additionally, some emirates allow employers for online cancellations. It can be done through the GDRFA website or designated typing centers.
After a visa cancellation
 The visa cancellation finalization doesn’t mark the complete end of the process. There are a few loose ends to tie up. This involves, at the very first closing your Emirates ID. You need to settle any remaining bank accounts. Ensure you receive an exit stamp upon leaving.
On the other hand, if you ever consider returning to the UAE, then you must apply for a fresh application process to obtain a visa.
However, securing an NOC from your previous employer can ease this although it’s not guaranteed.
Documents are required for a visa cancellation and final settlement
The employees may be required to submit several documents needed for visa cancellation. Here is the list:
- The employee must present their original passport with valid remaining validity.
- The employee’s original Emirates ID card is required.
- A completed visa cancellation form, typically filled out by the employer.
- A copy of the employment contract, especially for employment visa cancellation UAE.
- Approval from the MOHRE might be necessary for visa cancellation in some cases.
- Proof that the employee has settled any outstanding dues with the employer, like salary or bonuses.
Mandatory to cancel your UAE visa
 The visa cancellation is mandatory if you’re leaving the country permanently. In the UAE, an active residence visa signifies your legal residency. The individuals who fail to cancel can be fined. Also, they even face difficulty re-entering the country in the future. For a smooth departure, ensure you initiate the visa cancellation process before your planned exit from the UAE. It helps to avoid any complications.
Check your visa cancellation status in Dubai
 Are you leaving Dubai and need to check your visa cancellation status? Note that, you have two options:
Online:
You can check the visa cancellation status online. Open the website of the GDRFA Dubai. Now, navigate to Services and choose Inquiry – Visa Status. Type your passport details. Here, you’ll see the current status, including cancellation.
By Phone:
Also, you can check the visa cancellation status via phone. Call the Amer service helpline. For this, dial 800-5111 if you’re within the UAE or +971 (0)4 313 9999 if calling from abroad. Now, provide your passport number. After providing, a customer service representative can confirm your visa cancellation progress.
 Important Note: It is advisable to call Amer to check the visa cancellation status. The GDFRA website might require creating an account. Calling Amer may be faster, especially if you prefer not to register online.
Final Settlement of Dues During UAE Visa Cancellation
The final settlement during visa cancellation in UAE involves the employer clearing all outstanding dues. This includes:
- Final salary
- Any earned bonuses
- Accrued vacation pay
The employee should receive written confirmation of receiving these payments.
UAE Visa Cancellation Fees and Processing Time
Typically, the UAE visa cancellation fee ranges between AED 100 to AED 200. It is usually covered by your sponsor. The processing time is quick and within 1-2 business days you will have the update. However, it can take longer if your labor card cancellation is required.
 Employee Rights During UAE Visa Cancellation and Final Settlement
The employees have the right to receive all final payments during UAE visa cancellation. It includes salary, bonuses, and a clearance certificate. On the other hand, employers must follow proper procedures and avoid withholding any due amounts.
