So you’re thinking of leaving your job in Dubai or your contract is ending? It’s a big step when it comes to the employment or Dependent Visa Cancellation Fees in Dubai 2025.
I know you’re not alone in wondering this! It’s one of the most common questions we get here at HowUAE and getting it right is key.
Why Does Visa Cancellation Matter?
Mishandling your visa cancellation can lead to unexpected visa cancellation charges, delays, or worse. Failing to cancel your visa properly could even impact your ability to return to the UAE in the future.
Who Pays the Employment Visa Cancellation Fee?
Employer Responsibilities for Visa Cancellation
Generally, the employer responsibility visa cancellation fee is standard in the UAE. Your employer, as your sponsor, is typically responsible for:
- Initiating the process
- Covering the basic work permit and residence visa cancellation costs
However, check your employment contract. Some clauses may hold you liable for certain charges if you resign early. Employers do not usually cover:
- Overstay fines
- Non-standard service charges
What If the Employer Refuses to Cancel?
This is rare, but it happens. If your employer won’t process the cancellation after your notice period:
- Raise a formal query first
- Then file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
This avoids potential absconding report UAE consequences, which can cause long-term complications.
Dubai Employment Visa Cancellation Fee Breakdown (2025)
Work Visa Cancellation fee in Dubai?
Here are estimated 2025 fees for cancelling a UAE employment visa. Always verify with official sources:
| Service | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Employment Visa Cancellation | 100 – 300 | Includes core processing fees |
| Labour Card/Work Permit Cancellation | Employer-paid | Handled by MOHRE before immigration cancellation |
| GDRFA Website/App (Urgent) | ~100 (plus Dirham fees) | AED 10 Knowledge + AED 10 Innovation fees may apply |
| ICP Website/App | ~50 + 10 | E-service and order fee |
| AMER Centers | ~190 + service fee | Varies by center |
| Typing Center Services | Varies | Depends on agent or typing center policy |
| Translation/Attestation (if needed) | Varies | Usually optional unless specific docs required |
While basic visa cancellation fees are generally covered by the employer, channel-specific service charges may apply depending on where the application is processed.
Related: OutPass UAE | Visa on Arrival UAE Residents | Freelance Visa Dubai Cost
Employment Visa Cancellation Process in UAE
1. Employer’s Responsibilities
Before cancelling the visa, your employer must:
- Clear All Dues: Ensure final salary, accrued leave, and end of service benefits UAE are paid
- Cancel Labour Card/Work Permit: Via MOHRE
- Obtain Employee Signature: On the UAE visa cancellation form
Pro Tip from HowUAE: Only sign the form after receiving your full settlement.
2. Immigration Process: GDRFA or ICP
After MOHRE approval, the residency visa cancellation UAE process continues:
Submission Methods:
- Online: Through GDRFA or UAEICP portals/apps
- Offline: Via AMER centers or typing centers
Required Documents:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID (original)
- Signed cancellation form
- Labour card cancellation proof
- Company license + establishment card copy
3. Employee’s Final Responsibilities
Before departure, be sure to:
- Close your bank account UAE
- Settle all loans and utility bills (DEWA, telecom)
- Cancel your tenancy contract Dubai
- Sell assets if applicable
- Request a clearance certificate (if needed)
Grace Period After Visa Cancellation in UAE (2025)
How Long Do You Have After Cancellation?
After your residence visa cancellation, a visa cancellation grace period UAE allows time to:
- Transfer your visa
- Find a new job
- Exit the country legally
Typical Grace Periods:
| Visa Type | Grace Period |
|---|---|
| Standard Employment Visa | 30–90 days (Verify) |
| Golden/Green/Investor | 180 days |
| Visit/Visa-on-Arrival | Very short / None |
Important: Grace period may start from either the MOHRE cancellation date or the GDRFA/ICP cancellation, depending on your visa type. Always confirm through official portals.
Overstaying Fines
Overstaying the grace period leads to:
- AED 50 per day fine
- Risk of legal issues
How to Check Visa Cancellation Status Online
You can easily check visa cancellation status UAE through:
1. ICP Portal
- Go to icp.gov.ae
- Use passport number and nationality to verify status
2. GDRFA (Dubai Residents)
- Visit gdrfad.gov.ae
- Check visa cancellation confirmation UAE
Processing usually takes 48 hours, excluding holidays.
Cancelling Family/Dependent Visas
If you sponsor dependents, cancel their visas first before cancelling your own.
Process Overview:
- Responsible Party: You (the sponsor)
- Channels: GDRFA/ICP online, AMER centers, or typing centers
Family Visa Cancellation Fees:
| Dependent Type | Estimated Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Spouse/Child | 188 – 288 per person |
Required Documents:
- Your passport & Emirates ID
- Dependent’s passport & Emirates ID
- Filled application form
Things To Avoid During Visa Cancellation
Avoid These Costly Mistakes:
- Leaving UAE without cancelling visa
- Relying on automatic cancellation after 6 months outside UAE
- Not settling bills or closing accounts
- Overstaying grace period
- Ignoring NOC discussions when switching jobs
These issues can result in:
- Absconding reports
- Legal consequences
- Future re-entry bans
Related: How to Change Mobile Number in Emirates ID | Get labour Card Number
Final Thoughts
Dealing with visa cancellation fees and procedures in Dubai can be complex—but with preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
Key takeaways:
- Employers usually cover core cancellation costs
- Always verify fees and grace periods on official portals
- Settle all dues before signing the visa cancellation form
- Use GDRFA or ICP platforms for updates
- Be cautious of fines or bans related to overstay or improper cancellation
This HowUAE guide aims to help you confidently manage your employment visa cancellation in Dubai, protect your record, and leave on a clean slate in 2025 and beyond.
