Moving jobs, leaving the country, or switching sponsorship, at some point you may need to cancel visa in UAE. This guide explains who can cancel, the documents required, the exact steps to follow, timelines, fees, and the grace period rules, so you avoid last minute surprises.
Who Can Cancel a UAE Visa
For residence visas, the sponsoring entity initiates cancellation. That can be your employer for a work visa, your spouse or parent for a family visa, or your own company for an investor or partner visa. Employees cannot cancel their own visas without employer involvement, however they can track progress and request official receipts. Visit visas are cancelled online by the applicant or the issuing agency. Tourist visa holders should contact their travel agent if they applied through an agency for instructions.
Documents Required for Visa Cancellation
Have these ready before you start: original passport, Emirates ID, visa page copy, labour card or work permit if applicable, an NOC where required, and a signed cancellation form. Employers also provide a company establishment card and trade licence copy when processing through the relevant authority. If dependents are on your sponsorship, cancel their visas first, then cancel yours.
UAE Visa Cancellation Process 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide
Resolve all dues, end-of-service benefits, and company assets, then request a clearance letter. As part of the UAE visa cancellation process 2025, cancel dependent visas before yours to avoid system blocks. In Dubai, applications are filed via GDRFA or an Amer Center, while Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates use ICP smart services or authorized typing centers.
During the UAE visa cancellation process 2025, the sponsor submits required documents, pays the fee, and receives approval. Keep the cancellation confirmation for records, job changes, or exit formalities, and book travel only after approval.
| Cancellation channel | Where to apply | Who initiates | Typical time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employer sponsored work visa | Dubai GDRFA or Amer Center | Employer/PRO | 1 to 3 working days | Clearance of dues required, company documents attached |
| Family or dependent visa | GDRFA/Amer or ICP smart services | Sponsor, for example spouse or parent | 1 to 3 working days | Cancel dependents before the main applicant |
| Investor or partner visa | GDRFA/Amer or ICP | Self, via PRO or typing center | 2 to 5 working days | Additional documents may be requested |
| Visit/tourist visa | Online via GDRFA or agency | Applicant or issuing agency | Usually same day | Depends on agency processing and fee |
Visa Cancellation Timeline and Fees
Processing time usually ranges from one to three working days after submission, depending on the Emirate, season, and whether dependents were cancelled beforehand. Fees vary by visa type, channel, and urgency. Employers often pay for employee cancellations, while family sponsors pay for dependents. Always request an official receipt, and keep the approval for your records and any exit checks. If you cancel visa in UAE close to travel, allow extra time. Expedited services may be offered for an additional fee through authorized centers, however availability varies, so ask the agent to confirm timelines during peak seasons and public holidays and weekends.
Grace Period After Visa Cancellation
Once your residency is cancelled, a grace period applies to let you stay legally while you wrap up affairs, seek a new job, or exit. The exact duration is subject to the latest rules and can vary by category, so check your approval notice. During this period you should keep your passport valid, maintain health coverage if you remain, and avoid overstaying. If you plan to seek a new role, keep your documents ready for swift onboarding. If you remain in the UAE during the grace window, review your health cover and consider a compliant, budget friendly plan via insurancehub.ae until new sponsorship starts. If you are switching employers, ensure your labour card and work permit are cancelled along with residency, then gather documents for the new offer. Keep tenancy, bank, and utility accounts updated, and consider power of attorney if someone will finalize tasks after you depart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not cancelling dependents before your own application leads to rejection. Some applicants forget to return company assets or settle dues, which blocks employer initiated requests. Others file too late, book flights before approval, or let their Emirates ID expire. Make sure you also update banks, utilities, and insurance. If you intend to cancel visa in UAE and relocate, plan property handovers early. For homeowners abroad, even simple tasks like arranging safe access for maintenance matter, choosing vetted residential garage door specialists can help. Finally, do not forget to cancel or transfer phone and internet contracts, settle traffic fines, and clear vehicle registration. For financed cars, coordinate with the bank to obtain release letters before exit.
Conclusion:
Cancelling a visa in the UAE is a straightforward process when you follow the proper steps and submit all required documents. Ensure you comply with residency rules, settle any outstanding dues, and use official channels or approved service providers to avoid delays or penalties. Whether you’re leaving the UAE permanently or switching sponsors, completing the cancellation correctly ensures a smooth transition and maintains your legal compliance.
