The UAE Digital Government recently issued a crucial advisory for expatriates regarding the proper cancellation of residence visas when leaving the country permanently. It underscores the significance of following correct procedures to prevent potential complications, particularly for those considering future returns to the UAE.
If a company decides to cancel an employment visa of its employee, it must first approach 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 ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security) 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 he or she has already received all the dues, wages and end of services benefits from the employer.
Individuals sponsoring their spouse, children and other dependents must cancel their dependents’ visas before they cancel their own visa. It normally costs around Dh110 to cancel the visa.
The UAE Digital Government explained that 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.
HOW TO APPLY FOR VISA CANCELLATION
• The UAE Digital Government said a request to cancel residency can be submitted through ICP-approved printing offices (also know as typing centres or business service centres),
• Or electronically through the platforms provided by the authorities concerned with issuing residence visas (such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in their emirate).
• The sponsor can also submit a cancellation request through the ICP’s electronic channels, such as the Authority’s website (https://icp.gov.ae/) and smart app (UAEICP) on the Google Play and App Store platforms.
