Employment Visa Cancellation UAE 2027: Complete Guide For Employees And Employers
Employment Visa Cancellation UAE 2027. If you are leaving your job in the UAE, changing employers, or returning to your home country, understanding the Employment Visa Cancellation UAE process is very important. Every employee sponsored by a UAE employer must complete the visa cancellation process before leaving the company or transferring to another employer.
The UAE government has made this process simple through MOHRE, ICP Smart Services, GDRFA, and Amer Service Centers. However, many employees and employers still have questions about the required documents, cancellation fees, grace period, timelines, and legal responsibilities.
This guide explains everything in simple way. Whether you work in the private sector or you are an employer managing employee visas, this article covers every important detail you need to know.
What is Employment Visa Cancellation in the UAE?
Employment Visa Cancellation UAE is the official process of ending an employee’s legal work and residence status under a sponsoring employer.
When an employee resigns, gets terminated, or transfers to another company, the employer must cancel:
- Work Permit
- Labour Contract
- Residence Visa
Only after completing these steps is the employee officially released from the employer’s sponsorship.
Why Employment Visa Cancellation is Important
Cancelling an employment visa is not just a formality. It protects both the employer and the employee.
For Employees
- Allows transfer to another employer
- Helps avoid overstay fines
- Starts the legal grace period
- Clears immigration records
For Employers
- Updates labour quota
- Removes sponsorship responsibility
- Prevents government penalties
- Allows hiring replacement employees
Authorities Involved in Employment Visa Cancellation UAE
The UAE uses two separate government systems.
| Document | Issued By | Cancellation Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit | MOHRE | MOHRE |
| Labour Contract | MOHRE | MOHRE |
| Residence Visa | ICP or GDRFA | ICP or GDRFA |
| Emirates ID | ICP | Automatically cancelled after visa cancellation |
Important:
The work permit must always be cancelled first. Only after MOHRE approves the work permit cancellation can the residence visa be cancelled.
Required Documents for Employment Visa Cancellation UAE
Before starting the cancellation process, prepare the required documents.
| Required Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sponsor Passport | Identity verification |
| Employee Passport | Visa cancellation record |
| Work Permit Cancellation Copy | Issued by MOHRE |
| Additional Documents (if requested) | Depending on the application |
Sometimes additional documents may be requested if information cannot be retrieved electronically.
Employment Visa Cancellation Requirements
To successfully cancel an employment visa, the following conditions must be met.
Basic Requirements
- Employment relationship has ended
- Labour contract cancellation approved
- Work permit cancelled
- Final settlement completed
- Required documents submitted
- Employer submits application
Without MOHRE work permit cancellation, immigration authorities will reject the residence visa cancellation request.
Employment Visa Cancellation Process (Step-by-Step)
The UAE follows a fixed sequence. Skipping any step may delay the process.
Step 1 – Complete Final Settlement
The employer calculates:
- Remaining salary
- Annual leave balance
- End-of-service gratuity
- Bonus (if applicable)
- Other contractual payments
Both employer and employee should agree before moving forward.
Step 2 – Cancel the Labour Contract
- The employer submits the labour contract cancellation through MOHRE.
- Both employer and employee approve the cancellation.
- Once approved, MOHRE issues a cancellation confirmation.
Step 3 – Cancel the Work Permit
- After labour contract approval, the employer cancels the work permit.
- This officially removes the employee’s legal permission to work.
Step 4 – Cancel the Residence Visa
Now the employer proceeds with residence visa cancellation through:
- ICP Smart Services
- GDRFA Dubai
- Amer Service Center
This officially ends the employee’s residency under that employer.
Step 5 – Emirates ID Deactivation
- Employees do not need to cancel their Emirates ID separately.
- Once the residence visa is cancelled, the Emirates ID becomes inactive automatically.
Digital Process for Employment Visa Cancellation UAE
The UAE government allows online cancellation through digital platforms.
Online Steps
1. Login
Access the Smart Services Portal using:
- UAE Pass
- Username and Password
2. Search Service
Find the Employment Visa Cancellation service.
3. Fill the Application
Enter all required details carefully.
4. Upload Documents
Attach all requested documents if necessary.
5. Review Information
Check all details before submitting.
6. Pay Service Fees
Complete payment online.
7. Receive Approval
After verification, the cancellation certificate is issued.
The process is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through digital channels.
Employment Visa Cancellation Through Amer Service Center
Applicants can also complete the process at an Amer Service Center.
Steps
- Visit the nearest Amer Center.
- Take an electronic queue ticket.
- Submit the required documents.
- Customer service reviews the application.
- Pay the required fees.
- Receive confirmation after approval.
Amer Centers operate during normal business hours.
Employment Visa Cancellation Service Fees
The UAE government charges a standard cancellation fee.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Residence Visa Cancellation | AED 100 |
| Knowledge Fee | AED 10 |
| Innovation Fee | AED 10 |
| Total | AED 120 |
Additional service center charges may apply depending on the service channel.
Service Availability
| Channel | Availability |
|---|---|
| ICP Smart Services | 24/7 |
| Smart Mobile Application | 24/7 |
| Amer Service Centers | During official working hours |
Expected Processing Time
The normal processing time is:
| Service | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Employment Visa Cancellation | Around 48 Hours (2 Days) |
Processing time may vary if additional verification or documents are required.
Service Code
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Name | Visa Cancellation |
| Service Code | 377-005-001-007 |
| Category | Visa Services |
| Type | Auxiliary / Procedural |
| Completion Time | 2 Days |
Who Can Cancel an Employment Visa?
One of the biggest misunderstandings is that employees can cancel their own employment visa.
The answer is No.
Only the sponsoring employer can officially cancel the employment visa. The cancellation is completed through the following government authorities:
| Authority | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) | Cancels Labour Contract and Work Permit |
| ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) | Cancels Residence Visa in most Emirates |
| GDRFA Dubai | Cancels Residence Visa in Dubai |
| Amer Service Centers | Assist with Dubai immigration services |
Employees can request cancellation, but the employer must submit and complete the process.
Why the Correct Cancellation Order Matters
Many employers think they can cancel the residence visa first and handle the labour paperwork later. However, UAE authorities follow a strict sequence. If the work permit is not cancelled through MOHRE first, the residence visa cancellation request submitted to ICP or GDRFA will normally be rejected.
Following the correct order helps avoid delays, keeps company records updated, and ensures the employee’s exit or job transfer happens smoothly.
Final Settlement Before Employment Visa Cancellation UAE
Before an employer starts the visa cancellation process, all financial obligations must be settled according to UAE labour law. Employers cannot delay or withhold an employee’s final payment to force them into signing cancellation documents.
The final settlement should be calculated fairly and paid on time. This helps both the employer and employee complete the cancellation process without disputes.
What is Included in the Final Settlement?
The final settlement may include several payments depending on the employee’s contract and length of service.
| Settlement Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Outstanding Salary | Salary for the days worked in the final month |
| Unused Annual Leave | Payment for any unused leave balance |
| End-of-Service Gratuity | Gratuity calculated according to UAE Labour Law |
| Notice Period Pay | Paid if the employer waives the notice period |
| Bonuses or Commission | Any contractual payments due at termination |
| Other Benefits | Any allowances or agreed contractual benefits |
Employers should calculate these amounts correctly before submitting the work permit cancellation request.
End-of-Service Gratuity
One of the most important parts of the final settlement is the End-of-Service Gratuity. Generally, gratuity is calculated based on the employee’s basic salary and the total years of service.
Standard Gratuity Calculation
| Years of Service | Gratuity |
|---|---|
| First 5 Years | 21 days’ basic salary for each year |
| More than 5 Years | 30 days’ basic salary for each additional year |
The exact amount depends on the employment contract and applicable UAE labour regulations.
Why Final Settlement Matters
Completing the final settlement before visa cancellation offers several benefits.
For Employees
- Receive all outstanding payments
- Avoid financial disputes
- Leave the company with proper documentation
For Employers
- Stay compliant with UAE Labour Law
- Reduce the risk of labour complaints
- Complete visa cancellation without delays
The UAE Grace Period After Visa Cancellation
Many employees believe they must leave the UAE immediately after their visa is cancelled. This is not correct.
After the residence visa is cancelled or expires, the UAE generally provides a grace period of up to 60 days, allowing eligible individuals to remain legally in the country depending on the visa category and current immigration rules. During this period, employees can:
- Search for a new job
- Transfer to another employer
- Apply for another residence visa
- Make travel arrangements before leaving the UAE
The grace period starts from the date the residence visa is cancelled, not from the employee’s last working day.
What Can Employees Do During the Grace Period?
The grace period gives employees enough time to plan their next move.
Employees Can
- Stay legally in the UAE
- Attend job interviews
- Transfer sponsorship
- Apply for another visa
- Leave the UAE without overstay fines
Employees Cannot
- Continue working without a valid work permit
- Ignore the grace period expiry
- Stay in the UAE after the grace period without legal status
What Happens After the Grace Period Ends?
If an employee does not leave the UAE or obtain another valid visa before the grace period expires, they may become an overstayer. Possible consequences include:
- Daily overstay fines
- Immigration penalties
- Difficulty obtaining future UAE visas
- Delays when leaving the country
Employees should complete all visa-related procedures before the grace period ends.
Labour Quota Update After Visa Cancellation
When an employment visa is cancelled, the employee is removed from the company’s active visa records. This allows employers to:
- Sponsor new employees
- Keep visa allocations updated
- Maintain compliance with labour regulations
- Avoid unnecessary visa usage
For companies with limited visa quotas, timely cancellation is very important.
Responsibilities of Employers
Employers have several legal responsibilities during the cancellation process.
Employers Must
- Cancel the labour contract
- Cancel the work permit
- Cancel the residence visa
- Pay the final settlement
- Return the employee’s passport if it is in company possession
- Keep cancellation records
Proper documentation protects employers during future inspections or labour disputes.
Responsibilities of Employees
Employees also have important responsibilities.
Employees Should
- Return company property
- Complete exit formalities
- Sign required documents (after verifying them)
- Confirm receipt of final settlement
- Follow UAE immigration rules
- Leave the country or obtain another visa before the grace period expires
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to complete employment visa cancellation correctly may lead to legal and financial consequences.
Possible Employer Penalties
| Violation | Possible Result |
|---|---|
| Delayed work permit cancellation | Administrative penalties |
| Failure to cancel residence visa | Employer remains responsible for sponsorship |
| Withholding final settlement | Labour complaint |
| Poor compliance record | Future permit issues |
Possible Employee Penalties
| Violation | Result |
|---|---|
| Staying after the grace period | Overstay fines |
| Working without a valid permit | Legal action |
| Immigration violations | Future visa difficulties |
Following the correct process helps both parties avoid unnecessary problems.
Employment Visa Cancellation in UAE Free Zones
Employees working in UAE Free Zones follow a slightly different process. Unlike mainland companies, many Free Zone authorities manage employment and visa services through their own systems. Examples include:
- DMCC
- JAFZA
- DIFC
- ADGM
- KIZAD
Although the authority changes, the basic order remains the same:
- Employment ends.
- Work permit is cancelled through the Free Zone authority.
- Residence visa is cancelled.
- Final settlement is completed.
Employees should always check the specific requirements of their Free Zone.
Employee Abandonment Cases
Sometimes an employee stops coming to work without informing the employer. In such cases, employers cannot immediately cancel the visa. The employer should first:
- Record the employee’s absence.
- Try to contact the employee.
- Report the absence to the relevant authority if required.
- Follow the official legal process before proceeding with visa cancellation.
Skipping these steps may create legal issues for the employer.
Employment Visa Cancellation for Emirati Employees
The process is different for UAE nationals. Since Emirati employees are UAE citizens, they do not hold sponsored residence visas. Therefore:
- No residence visa cancellation is required.
- Employers should update employment records with the relevant authorities.
- Labour registration should also be updated where applicable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many delays happen because of simple mistakes. Avoid the following:
- Cancelling the residence visa before the work permit.
- Forgetting to complete the final settlement.
- Uploading incorrect documents.
- Missing the cancellation deadline.
- Ignoring the grace period.
- Keeping incomplete records.
Careful planning makes the process much smoother.
Tips for a Smooth Employment Visa Cancellation
Here are some helpful tips for employees and employers.
- Keep passport copies ready.
- Verify all personal information.
- Complete salary and gratuity calculations early.
- Use official government portals.
- Save all cancellation receipts.
- Monitor application status regularly.
- Complete the process within the required timeline.
FAQs
Who cancels an employment visa in the UAE?
Ans: Only the sponsoring employer can officially cancel an employment visa through the relevant government authorities.
Can an employee cancel their own employment visa?
Ans: No. Employees cannot self-cancel an employment visa. The sponsoring employer must complete the process.
How much does employment visa cancellation cost?
Ans: Total government fee: AED 120, excluding any optional service center charges.
How long does the cancellation process take?
Ans: Most applications are completed within 48 hours (2 working days) if all documents are correct.
Can I stay in the UAE after visa cancellation?
Ans: Yes. Eligible individuals are generally granted a grace period of up to 60 days, depending on current UAE immigration rules and visa type.
Can I transfer to another company?
Ans: Yes. After your current employer completes the cancellation process, you can begin the process of obtaining a new work permit and residence visa with your new employer.
What happens to my Emirates ID?
Ans: Your Emirates ID is automatically deactivated after your residence visa is cancelled. No separate cancellation application is required.
Conclusion
Understanding the Employment Visa Cancellation UAE process is essential for both employees and employers. Completing the cancellation correctly helps avoid legal issues, financial penalties, and unnecessary delays.
The process starts with labour contract and work permit cancellation, followed by residence visa cancellation through the appropriate authority. Employers must also complete the employee’s final settlement, while employees should respect the applicable grace period and arrange their next visa or departure before it expires.
About The Author
