Whether you’re changing jobs, leaving the UAE, or shifting your visa sponsorship, knowing how to cancel or transfer your UAE employment visa is essential for maintaining legal compliance and avoiding penalties. The UAE government has streamlined these procedures to make transitions smoother for both employers and employees. This article walks you through the step-by-step process of canceling or transferring your UAE employment visa, including required documents, timelines, and important legal considerations.
- Understanding When and Why You Need to Cancel or Transfer a Visa
An employment visa in the UAE is tied to your employer. If you:
- Resign or are terminated,
- Switch jobs to another UAE-based company, or
- Plan to permanently leave the UAE,
you must cancel your current visa or transfer it to a new sponsor. It is illegal to work under a new employer without a valid visa sponsored by them. Also, holding an active employment visa without a job can lead to fines or immigration issues.
- Steps to Cancel Your UAE Employment Visa
Initiated by the Employer:
Only your sponsoring employer can officially cancel your employment visa. The process includes:
- Labor Card Cancellation
- Immigration Visa Cancellation
Required Documents:
- Passport and Emirates ID of the employee
- Original visa copy
- Labor card and employment contract
- Signed cancellation form (usually signed by both parties)
- How to Transfer an Employment Visa to a New Employer
If you have secured a new job in the UAE, the new employer can transfer your visa sponsorship without requiring you to exit the country. The process is:
- Obtain Offer Letter and Work Permit Approval
- Cancel Current Labor and Immigration Files
- Apply for New Visa
- Key Considerations and Common Issues
- Labor Ban: A labor ban may apply if you leave a job within 6 months without valid reasons or if your new job doesn’t meet minimum salary thresholds. However, bans are rare for skilled professionals and free zones.
- Gratuity & Final Settlements: Before cancellation, ensure your gratuity, leave balance, and other dues are settled by your employer.
- Free Zone Jobs: Free zone employment visas are handled by the respective free zone authority. The process and documentation might slightly differ.
- Illegal Overstay: Once the visa is canceled, overstaying beyond the grace period leads to fines of AED 50 per day.
Final Wrapping
Canceling or transferring your UAE employment visa is a structured yet critical process that must be handled diligently. Always coordinate closely with your HR department and ensure that all official clearances and financial settlements are completed before moving on to your next step. Whether you’re advancing your career within the UAE or planning to exit, understanding and following the correct visa procedures ensures a smooth, hassle-free transition.
