The thought of dealing with paperwork and going through long lines to process documents is stressful in itself. Visa cancellation in UAE is an anxiety inducing matter for the best of us. Even for the people with steel nerves. As much as it is a taxing affair, the process is nonetheless important. Completing it necessary for a variety of reasons. Avoiding legal complications requires expats and employers to know how to cancel a visa in UAE.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Visa Cancellation in the UAE:
The process of how to cancel visa in UAE involves certain steps. Not completing a step will result in delays.
Step 1: Obtain a No Objection Certificate:
The first step for expat employees is to get an NOC from their employer. It indicates your employer has no issues with you canceling your visa.
Step 2: Apply for Visa Cancellation:
Apply through GDRFA for visa cancellation. If you are in free zone, apply with the respective authority. Usually employers will be the ones managing this process. But freelancers have it upon themselves to take care of this step.
Step 3: Settle Fines or Outstanding Debts:
Before visa cancellation is processed, clear any impending fines and penalties.
Step 4: Submit Documentation:
Share the following documents.
- Your Original Passport.
- Visa Copy.
- Emirates ID.
- Company’s Cancellation Form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Cancellation in the UAE:
There are different causes for delays and fines occurring. Most of the times, it’s some common mistakes most people make. It turns the simple process into a complicated thing. Avoiding these ensures a smooth process ahead.
| Failing to Settle Debts | Unpaid bills and traffic fines are common contenders blocking your visa cancellation |
| Missing Deadlines | If your employment has been terminated, cancel your visa in the specific timeframe |
| Lack of Proper Documentation | Avoid running into setbacks by making sure you have all the required documents |
How to Cancel Your UAE Visa While Outside the Country?
You can cancel your visa when you are out of the country. This is how it works when you have left UAE.
Contact Your Employer or Sponsor:
Companies and sponsors manage the process for employed individuals. Freelancers need to contact their free zone or GDFRFA.
Submit a Power of Attorney:
Assign a representative to handle the paperwork on your behalf. This requires power of attorney document.
Clear Any Pending Fees:
Clear any unpaid fines before the visa can be canceled.
Receive Confirmation:
After all procedures are completed, you’ll receive a notification. It will inform you of official visa cancellation.
Visa Cancellation vs. Visa Expiry: What’s the Difference in the UAE?
Knowing the difference between visa cancellation and visa expiry is important for expats. The terms may sound similar. But they point to different situations with distinct consequences.
| Cancellation | Expiry |
| It is initiated by either the sponsor, employer or individual, | A visa naturally expires when it reaches the end of its validity period, |
| This is necessary for people leaving a job. Or the country. Or if they are switching to a new visa type. | Overstaying on an expired visa is a recipe for heavy fines. |
What Happens After Your UAE Visa is Canceled: Next Steps for Expats?
There’s a grace period of thirty days to leave the country when your visa has been canceled. Or this time can be used to apply for a new visa. During this window, settle final bills. Cancel utilities. Close any bank accounts if you are not planning on returning.
UAE lets you apply for a visit visa to extend your stay temporarily. Meanwhile you consider your next steps.
UAE Employment Visa Cancellation: Employer and Employee Responsibilities:
The process of canceling an employment visa in the UAE is a shared responsibility between the employer and the employee.
- Employer Responsibilities:
Start the cancellation process with the MoHRE and GDRFA. - Employee Responsibilities:
Provide required documents. Pay any outstanding dues. Return their Emirates ID and work permit.
Freelance Visa Cancellation in the UAE: What You Need to Know?
Freelancers are their own sponsors. This gives them a bit more control over the process. But it comes with added responsibility. There are certain steps freelancers in UAE have to follow for canceling their visa.
Contact the Free Zone Authority:
If you’re registered under a free zone, start the visa cancellation with the authority that issued your freelance permit.
Submit Your Documents:
Required documents include your passport, visa copy, Emirates ID and a completed cancellation form.
Settle Any Dues:
Ensure that there are no pending fines before submitting your cancellation request.
Visa Cancellation Fees in the UAE: What to Expect in 2024?
There’s no such thing that comes without a cost. And visa cancellation is no exception for that matter. Be if an employment or freelance visa you are cancelling, the total amount will differ. That’s because of your visa type, location and fines. Visa cancellation will cost you between AED 200 to AED 500.
There might be administrative fee applied too. Get in touch with relevant government authorities. Or contact your sponsor. They will get you an accurate estimate of cancellation expenses.
How Visa Cancellation Affects Dependents in the UAE?
When main visa holder cancels their visa, it will affect their dependents too. The dependents’ visas need to be canceled too. But similar to the primary visa holder, they also get a 30 day grace period. Primary visa holder will have to initiate dependent visa cancellation process.
Not cancelling your dependents’ visas in time will mean fines. And even difficulties in securing new visas for your family in the future.
Can You Get a New Job After Canceling Your UAE Visa? What You Need to Know?
It’s possible to get a new job after canceling your visa. After your prior employment visa is canceled, you can apply for a new job in the country. Your new employer will sponsor your visa when you are hired elsewhere. Transfer process for switching employers in the same free zone is even simpler. It might not require you going through a full visa cancellation either.
Connect with C-UAE for our services of UAE visa cancellation.
