Losing a job in Dubai can be stressful. Along with employment uncertainty, understanding your Dubai Visa status is crucial. Knowing how long you can legally stay helps avoid penalties and overstaying issues.
What Happens When Your Employment Visa Is Cancelled
When your employment ends, your employer must cancel your work permit and residency visa through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- You are required to sign the cancellation documents.
- Once cancelled, your residence visa is no longer valid.
- You can apply for a new work visa or another visa type within the UAE.
Confirm with your previous employer that the cancellation was processed correctly to avoid complications with new sponsors.
The Grace Period After Visa Cancellation
The UAE provides a grace period after visa cancellation to help expatriates transition:
- Standard grace period: 30–90 days.
- Extended grace period: up to 180 days for select visa categories.
During this time, you can either secure a new job, switch to another visa type, or prepare to exit the country.
Who Can Get the 180-Day Grace Period?
Certain visa holders are eligible for the extended six-month grace period:
- Golden visa holders and their families
- Green visa holders and their families
- Widows or divorcees of UAE residents
- University students completing their studies under their sponsorship
- Immediate family of UAE nationals holding foreign passports
- Skilled professionals in first and second-level occupations
Most other expats typically have 30–60 days to remain in the country after cancellation.
Changing Visa Status During the Grace Period
The grace period allows for flexibility in changing your visa status:
- Find a new employer willing to sponsor a residence visa.
- Switch to family sponsorship if eligible.
- Apply for self-sponsored visas like the Green Visa.
Applications can usually be processed at Amer Service Centres or authorized typing centres. Fees range between AED 550–650 depending on the visa type.
When Does the Grace Period Start?
- Free zone visas: From the date the residence permit is cancelled.
- Mainland visas: From the date the labor card is cancelled.
It’s important to track this date carefully, as overstaying beyond the grace period incurs fines of AED 50 per day.
Tips to Avoid Problems
- Confirm cancellation with your former employer immediately.
- Keep track of your grace period and plan your next steps.
- Consult a professional if switching visas or applying for a self-sponsored visa.
- Ensure all required documents are accurate and submitted on time.
Failing to comply with grace period rules can lead to overstay fines and legal complications, so act promptly.
Lost your job in Dubai? Protect your status and avoid fines. Contact AR Associates today to explore your options and stay compliant.
