Cancelling your UAE visa is a necessary step when changing jobs, leaving the country, or switching to a new sponsor. Many residents don’t realize that visa cancellation also involves specific fees, documentation, timelines, and possible refunds. This complete 800-word guide explains the UAE visa cancellation fee, refund eligibility, timeframes, employer responsibilities, and step-by-step procedures—with detailed tables and a clean layout for easy understanding.
Overview Table
| Factor | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation Fee | AED 100 – AED 250 | Depends on visa type |
| Processing Time | 1–3 days | Online and fast |
| Who Can Cancel | Sponsor / Employer | Employee cannot cancel themselves |
| Refund Eligibility | Deposit & security amounts | Case-specific |
| Required Documents | Passport, Emirates ID, visa copy | Mandatory |
| Visit Visa Cancellation | May include overstaying fines | If expired or overstayed |
What Is a UAE Visa Cancellation?
Visa cancellation officially ends your residency or visit visa status in the UAE. It must be completed before:
- Changing employer
- Leaving the UAE permanently
- Switching to a new residency type
- Expiry of visa to avoid fines
Without cancellation, you may face:
- Overstay penalties
- Blocked new visa applications
- Travel restrictions
Visa Cancellation Fee in the UAE
The fee varies depending on visa type, issuing authority (GDRFA or ICP), and whether the process is online or through a typing center.
Standard Cancellation Fees:
- Residency Visa: AED 100 – AED 150
- Employment Visa: AED 100 – AED 250
- Family Visa: AED 100 – AED 150
- Free Zone Visa: AED 100 – AED 250
- Visit/Tourist Visa: AED 50 – AED 100
Typing centers may charge an additional AED 50 – AED 100 as service fees.
Who Is Responsible for Visa Cancellation?
1. Employment Visa (Work Visa)
- Employer must cancel the visa.
- Employee must sign clearance forms.
- Labour cancellation must be completed first.
2. Family Visa
- The sponsor (husband, wife, parent) must cancel.
- All dependents must be cancelled before cancelling the sponsor’s own visa.
3. Visit/Tourist Visa
- Cancelled through the travel agency or sponsor.
- Required if overstaying or switching to another visa inside the UAE.
Step-by-Step Process to Cancel a UAE Visa
1. Labour Cancellation (For Work Visas)
- Employer submits request to MOHRE
- Employee signs required documents
- Labour card and contract get cancelled
Processing Time: 1–2 days
2. Residency Visa Cancellation
Submitted via:
- GDRFA website
- ICP Smart Services
- Typing center
Documents Required:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID
- Visa page
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID
3. Cancellation Approval
Once approved:
- Visa status becomes “Cancelled”
- You receive an electronic cancellation letter
4. Grace Period After Cancellation
Residents have 28 days to:
- Exit UAE
- Change status
- Apply for a new visa
Overstaying after the grace period results in daily fines.
Visa Cancellation Fee Table
| Visa Type | Cancellation Fee | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Visa | AED 100 – AED 250 | Employer must cancel first |
| Family Visa | AED 100 – AED 150 | Sponsor responsible |
| Investor/Partner Visa | AED 150 – AED 250 | May require financial clearances |
| Domestic Worker Visa | AED 100 – AED 150 | Sponsor cancels |
| Visit/Tourist Visa | AED 50 – AED 100 | Agency or sponsor cancels |
Refund Eligibility After Visa Cancellation
Refunds depend on the type of visa and deposit paid.
Refundable Items:
- Security Deposits
- Often taken for family visas
- Refund processed after cancellation
- Deposited back to sponsor’s account
- Insurance Refund (Partially)
- Some agencies refund unused months of visa insurance
- Agency Service Deposits
- Refunded after deducting admin charges
Non-Refundable Items:
- Medical test fees
- Emirates ID charges
- Typing center fees
- Visa stamping fees
How Long Does Refund Take?
Refunds are usually processed in 15–45 days, depending on:
- Payment method
- Bank transfer timelines
- Authority handling (ICP/GDRFA)
Grace Period After Visa Cancellation
| Visa Type | Grace Period |
|---|---|
| Employment Visa | 28 days |
| Family Visa | 28 days |
| Investor Visa | 28 days |
| Cancelled Visit Visa | No grace period |
| Overstay After Grace | AED 50 per day |
Common Reasons Visa Cancellation Gets Delayed
- Incomplete documents
- Unpaid traffic fines
- Unsettled company dues
- Pending police cases
- Financial liabilities (bank loans, credit cards)
Employees must ensure all bank obligations are settled before cancellation.
Frequently Asked Questions During Cancellation
Do I need to return Emirates ID?
Yes, the Emirates ID is usually collected during visa cancellation (for work and family visas).
Can I cancel my visa from outside UAE?
Yes, if the sponsor requests cancellation through ICP/GDRFA.
Can my employer refuse to cancel my visa?
No legally, unless you have unpaid dues or breached contract.
Important Tips to Avoid Extra Charges
- Cancel visa before leaving the UAE
- Do not overstay after cancellation
- Clear fines and loans before submitting request
- Keep a copy of the cancellation approval letter
- Ensure dependents’ visas are cancelled first (for family visa holders)
Conclusion
Visa cancellation in the UAE is a straightforward process when handled correctly. Whether it’s a work visa, family visa, or visit visa, understanding the cancellation fees, refund rules, required documents, and timelines helps avoid unnecessary fines and delays. Keep all your paperwork ready, clear pending dues, and ensure your sponsor initiates the process on time for a smooth and stress-free exit or visa transition.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to cancel a UAE visa?
Between AED 100–250 depending on visa type and authority.
2. How long is the grace period after visa cancellation?
28 days to exit or change your visa status.
3. Can I get a refund after canceling my visa?
Yes, security deposits and some insurance amounts are refundable.