What To Know
- If you find new employment during your grace period, your new employer can apply for a new work permit and initiate a change of status while you remain in the country.
- 29 of 2021 on Entry and Residence of Aliens, once a residence visa is cancelled or expires, the individual must either renew their status (if eligible) or leave the country within the legally allowed period.
- Once your visa is cancelled, you are allowed to stay in the UAE only for the grace period stated in your visa cancellation document.
If you are terminated or resign from a job in mainland Dubai, your employer must first cancel your work permit and residency visa. Once your visa is cancelled, you are allowed to stay in the UAE only for the grace period stated in your visa cancellation document.
The exact duration of the grace period depends on your visa category and immigration status. During this time, you must either exit the UAE or legally change your visa status before the grace period expires.
Work Permit Cancellation Process in the UAE
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, employers must follow specific procedures when cancelling an employee’s work permit.
The employer must:
Submit a cancellation request through approved Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) channels
Complete required documentation
Settle any outstanding fines
Confirm that the employee has received all legal entitlements
Only after the work permit is cancelled will the residency visa be processed for cancellation.
What Happens After Your Residency Visa Is Cancelled?
According to Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021 on Entry and Residence of Aliens, once a residence visa is cancelled or expires, the individual must either renew their status (if eligible) or leave the country within the legally allowed period.
If a person remains in the UAE after the grace period ends, administrative fines are imposed for each day of overstay. The fine amount is determined by the UAE authorities.
Legal Ways to Stay in the UAE After Visa Cancellation
If you find new employment during your grace period, your new employer can apply for a new work permit and initiate a change of status while you remain in the country.
Once the new work permit is approved, your residency visa process can begin without needing to exit the UAE.
If you do not secure employment within the grace period, you may explore alternative options such as applying for a visit visa or tourist visa. It is advisable to check with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai for the latest procedures and eligibility requirements.
Key Takeaway
After your UAE work visa is cancelled, you may remain in the country only during the official grace period. Before that period ends, you must either secure a new visa, change your residency status, or exit the UAE to avoid daily overstay fines.
Understanding your legal options early can help you transition smoothly and avoid penalties.
