Employees in the UAE whose work visas are cancelled after termination or resignation can legally remain in the country only for the grace period specified in the cancellation document.
Staying beyond this deadline without changing visa status attracts daily fines under the country’s immigration law.
In mainland companies, the employer must first cancel the employee’s work permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
The employer submits the application, completes the required documentation, settles any penalties for delayed renewals and confirms that the worker has received all end-of-service benefits.
These procedures follow Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, which implements the UAE Labour Law and governs employment transitions.
When the authorities cancel the residency visa, the document will stay editable, with the employee enjoying a UAE stay right from its revocation until the official document's grace period ends.
Workers use this period as a legal extension to search for new employment. Employees who find new employment during this period can switch their work permits without leaving the country.
The new employer has the right to request a new work visa while the individual continues to stay in the UAE.
Immigration authorities will impose daily administrative fines on individuals who stay in the country illegally after their grace period ends until they leave the country or obtain a new visa, according to Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021.
Workers who need more time to search for employment can apply to switch to a visit or tourist visa from within the country, subject to approval by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
The rules give employees time to plan their next move, but they also set a clear legal deadline to avoid financial penalties.