UAE Expats Advised on Residence Visa Cancellation Protocol
By following these procedures, expatriates can ensure a smooth exit from the country and prevent any potential issues
Dubai: Expatriates leaving the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been advised to follow proper procedures to cancel their residence visas and prevent potential complications, according to a recent advisory issued by the UAE Digital Government.
The advisory highlights the importance of adhering to correct procedures, particularly for those considering future returns to the UAE. It explains that if a company cancels an employee's employment visa, it must first approach the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) with an application to cancel the employee's labour contract and labour card. The employee must also sign this application. Then, the employer should apply to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) for visa cancellation.
The company must also cancel the work permit. For this, it must submit a letter to MoHRE signed by the employee stating that they have already received all the employer's dues, wages and end-of-service benefits.
Individuals sponsoring their spouse, children, and other dependents must cancel their dependents' visas before cancelling their visas, and it usually costs around Dh110 to cancel the visa.
According to the procedures, only the sponsor or someone they delegate on their behalf (such as a PRO, for example, in the case of companies) can proceed with cancelling the residence visa of someone they have sponsored. The sponsored person cannot implement the request without the permission and signature of the sponsor.
The UAE Digital Government explained that a request to cancel residency could be submitted through ICP-approved printing offices or electronically through the platforms provided by the authorities concerned with issuing residence visas. The sponsor can also submit a cancellation request through the ICP's electronic channels, such as the Authority's website and smart app.
By following these procedures, expatriates can ensure a smooth exit from the country and prevent any potential issues that may arise when they return to the UAE.