Canceling a residence visa in the UAE is an important process when someone plans to leave the country permanently or wants to change to a different type of visa. The procedure can be complex, so having a detailed guide helps navigate each step smoothly.
Residence Visas in the UAE
A residence visa allows foreigners to legally live and work in the UAE. It is sponsored by an individual or company and enables access to services, facilities, and financial systems. There are several types of residence visas investor, property, employment, family, and student visas.
The reasons for canceling a residence visa are:
- Leaving the UAE permanently
- Switching jobs or sponsors
- Transitioning from employment to an investor visa
- Family-related changes like divorce or children studying abroad
Once the visa is canceled, the person is required to exit the country within a specific timeframe depending on their visa category. Fines can apply for overstaying without a valid residence permit.
How to Cancel a Residence Visa in UAE
Step 1: Notify Your Sponsor
First, inform your sponsor (employer, family member, or business partner) about your decision to cancel the visa.
To formally notify your sponsor, submit a signed letter or send an email clearly stating your intention of canceling your residence permit. Specify the planned cancellation date and reason for visa cancellation.
Step 2: Settle Financial Obligations
Before applying for visa cancellation, you must clear any financial dues with your sponsor, which could include:
- Pending salaries
- Employment benefits like gratuity or annual leave pay
- Bank loan payments
- Credit card bills
- Utility bills like DEWA/Etisalat
- Rent payments
Your sponsor will provide a clearance letter once all outstanding payments have been settled.
Step 3: Visa Cancellation Application
The visa cancellation application must be submitted online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website. Alternatively, typing centers like Amer Centers can also be used.
Documents required for residence visa cancellation application:
- Original passport
- Valid Emirates ID
- Copy of visa page from passport
- Sponsor’s trade license copy
- Financial clearance certificate from sponsor
- Cancellation request form
- Passport size photographs
An application fee of AED 100 needs to be paid online or at the typing center. Biometric details will be captured during submission.
Step 4: Visa Cancellation Approval
The processing time is usually 1-2 business days. You can track your visa status online using your passport number. Some delays could occur during public holidays or peak travel seasons.
Once approved, your residence visa will be canceled in the system. You will need to surrender any visa documents like an Emirates ID card and labor card. Your sponsor will also cancel your work permit separately.
Step 5: Exit Procedures
After getting residence visa cancellation approval, there will be a grace period from 30 to 180 days to depart the country depending on your specific visa type.
You must complete these exit formalities before leaving:
- Surrender Emirates ID card
- Cancel bank accounts
- Collect security deposit refunds
- Cancel phone/internet contracts
- Ship household items through the shipping company
- Clear final utility bills
- Check visa cancellation stamp on passport
Overstaying beyond the grace period after visa cancellation leads to fines by immigration authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I cancel my own UAE residence visa?
No, only your visa sponsor like an employer or family member can officially cancel your residence permit. However, investor visa holders can initiate cancellation independently.
What is the fine for overstaying after visa cancellation?
The penalty for staying in the UAE past your grace period is AED 50 for each day overstayed.
Will my driving license be canceled if my residence visa is canceled?
Yes, your UAE driving license will automatically be canceled 30 days after the residence visa cancellation date.
Can I still live in my home after my residence visa cancellation?
Legally, you must vacate your home and repatriate after your visa cancellation since your legal residency status ends. Overstaying without a valid permit leads to immigration fines.
Conclusion
Canceling your UAE residence visa involves notifying your sponsor, settling financial dues, applying for cancellation, getting approval, and completing exit formalities. Each step needs to be followed diligently to avoid fines or immigration violations. Seeking advice from a qualified consultant can also ease the process.
