UAE Visa Cancellation Guide

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:

1. 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.
2. Complete the form with accurate information and attach the required documents.
3. 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.
4. Pay the visa cancellation fee which is around AED 500.
5. 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.

Required Documents

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

1. Completed visa cancellation application form
2. Original Emirates ID
3. Original passport and a copy
4. Original visa or a copy
5. Clearance letter from the MOHRE (for work permit and work visa cancellation)
6. Sponsor's passport copy (for dependent family members)

Cancelling a UAE Work Permit and Work Visa

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:

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

Cancelling if You Are Changing Jobs

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.

Cancelling for Dependent Family Members

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.

Where to Cancel a UAE Residence Visa?

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.

Residence Visa Cancellation for a Person Outside UAE (Longer Than Six Months)

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!

Cost of a UAE Visa Cancellation

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.

How Long Does It Take?

The visa cancellation process usually takes a few days.

Stay informed with Emirabiz

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.