How long does a company have to cancel a work visa after resignation in UAE?

The employer should initiate visa cancellation within 14 days of the employment end date. The actual cancellation process takes an additional 2-3 working days. If the employer delays, you can file a complaint with MOHRE to force the cancellation.

Can an employer refuse to cancel my visa in UAE?

No. Under UAE labour law, the employer is legally obligated to cancel the visa once employment ends. Refusing or delaying visa cancellation is a violation. File a complaint with MOHRE immediately if this happens.

What happens if my visa is not cancelled and I stay in the UAE?

Once your employment ends, you typically have a 30-day grace period. If your visa is not cancelled and you overstay, you may face fines. However, if the delay is caused by the employer, you can document this and use it as evidence that any overstay was not your fault.

Company Not Cancelling Your Visa After Resignation in UAE?

You have served your notice period, completed your last day, but your company is dragging its feet on cancelling your work visa. This traps you — you cannot start a new job, may face overstay fines, and cannot leave the country cleanly. Here is how to handle it.

Your Rights Under UAE Law

Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), once employment ends — whether by resignation, termination, or mutual agreement — the employer is required to:

Pay all end-of-service entitlements within 14 days
Initiate work permit and visa cancellation promptly
Provide a valid experience or end-of-service letter

Why Companies Delay Visa Cancellation

Leverage: To pressure you into signing unfavourable clearance documents
Outstanding amounts: They claim you owe money (even if you do not)
Administrative negligence: Simply not prioritising the paperwork
Labour ban threat: Note: the old 6-month labour ban system has been largely abolished under the 2021 law

Step-by-Step Resolution

Send a written request to your employer (email + WhatsApp) asking them to cancel your visa immediately, citing the 14-day deadline.
File a MOHRE complaint via the MOHRE app or website if they do not respond within 5 business days. Select "Visa cancellation delay" as the complaint type.
MOHRE mediation — MOHRE will contact the employer and attempt resolution within 14 working days.
Visit MOHRE in person if the online complaint is not resolved. Bring your resignation letter, last working day confirmation, and all communication.

Protecting Yourself from Overstay Fines

Keep all evidence that you resigned and the employer is responsible for the delay
If you receive an overstay fine, challenge it at GDRFA with proof that the employer delayed cancellation
Consider applying for a jobseeker visa (60-120 days) while waiting, available through ICP services

Company Not Cancelling Your Visa After Resignation in UAE?

Your Rights Under UAE Law

Why Companies Delay Visa Cancellation

Step-by-Step Resolution

Protecting Yourself from Overstay Fines

Related Resources

Know Your Employment Rights

Legal Disclaimer