Grace Period after Visa Cancellation in UAE

What if one missed deadline could cost you over AED 1,500 in just one month? Would you risk it? Illegal staying in the UAE after visa cancellation can have significant legal consequences. The grace period after UAE visa cancellation is not just about paperwork; it protects your future. With grace periods ranging from 30 to 180 days, depending on visa types, and overstaying fines standardized at AED 50 per day, knowing these rules is not optional—it's mandatory. Overstaying might cost you AED 1,500 in fines in just one month. And now, the UAE has introduced a two-month grace period from September 1, 2024, by Federal Law on the Entry and Residency of Foreigners, exempting violators from any financial penalties and offering a good chance to regularize their status.

This guide explains the grace period rules and penalties and why staying informed could save you thousands.

What does the grace period after visa cancellation in UAE mean?

The grace period after visa cancellation in UAE allows people to renew or change their visa status while still in the country without waiving fines. Thus, it gives extra time to conduct personal or professional business legally.

The grace period after a UAE residence visa cancellation typically lasts 30 days, but recent policies have introduced a two-month grace period. For the accurate duration, you must check your specific visa details via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, ICP.

What are the consequences of overstaying in the UAE after the grace period?

Overstaying your grace period in the UAE has severe penalties. Starting from the first day of overstaying, there is a fine of AED 50 and another AED 50 for each following day you stay in the country without a valid visa. When leaving the UAE, you must also pay for an exit permit, which costs between AED 250 and AED 300.

Fines and fees can be settled at airports, seaports, land borders, immigration offices, or any authorized typing centers. If you want to apply to extend or regularize your visa status, the payments will be settled in those places, which will help solve your overstaying situation without any complications.

How many days grace period after visa cancellation in UAE?

The grace period after visa cancellation in UAE differs for everyone, depending on the type of visa the resident or visitor holds. Below is the detailed breakdown for you:

1. Visit visa holders

Visit visa holders do not have any grace period. If their visa expires, then their stay in the country becomes illegal, and they attract an AED 50 daily fine on their heads. However, exceptions apply only when the flights are canceled or the airport is closed.

2. Investor visa

For investor visa holders, there is a grace period of 180 days or 6 months after visa cancellation. The investor visa is usually made for 5 to 10 years for investors. If it is not renewed or the visa holder leaves the country during this period, it results in daily financial penalties of AED 50.

3. Green visa

Green visa holders, whether freelancers, entrepreneurs, or skilled workers, are eligible for a grace period of 6 months after the cancellation. An AED 50 per day fine is incurred if they stay after the grace period expires.

4. Golden visa

The golden visa is usually granted to talented individuals, investors, and excellent students. This visa has a 180-day grace period. This visa's 5 to 10-year validity is famous for allowing holders to bring their families along and renew permits easily.

5. Standard work visa

For those on a standard work visa in the public or private sector, the grace period is 90 days (3 months). The application and cancellation of this visa are at the employer's hands, and if they fail to act within the grace period, it results in daily fines.

6. Retired visa

Those retired visa holders, usually people above 55 years old and in a specific financial bracket, are allowed a 180-day grace period after the UAE visa expires.

7. Divorced women and widows

The UAE government grants divorced women and widows a grace period up to six months and also the facility of a one-year extension starting from the date of divorce or death of the husband. This extension is not renewable and does not need a substitute sponsor.

8. Student visa

Generally, student visa holders, whether sponsored by parents or education establishments, have a 180-day grace period after their UAE visa expires. That gives students sufficient time to transition or renew their status post-graduation.

Who is eligible for a UAE residence visa?

Except for the visitor or tourist visa holders, most other long-term visas in the UAE, such as work, student, or investor visas, come with the additional benefit of residency. The UAE residence visa lets individuals stay in the UAE for extended periods, often because of their employment or educational status, and they grant residency rights, such as access to healthcare, the ability to open bank accounts, and the eligibility to apply for an Emirates ID.

A residence visa is not an additional visa after a long-term visa. With this status provided by long-term visas, people can officially stay in the country. For example, residence visa holders can stay for specific durations and purposes, including work, student, and green visas. Therefore, a residence visa is a component of a long-term visa that grants advantages and legal standing in the UAE.

Can the grace period be extended? If yes, how and for how long?

There have been no announcements regarding a grace period extension in case a UAE visa is canceled. However, speculations say extensions can be granted under specific conditions, like applying for a new visa, normally a tourist or residence visa. The best way to spend more time in the country after the first grace period is to renew or change to a new type of visa.

• You should apply for a new visa (employment, tourist, or residence visa) before the grace period expires.
• Ensure all your documents, like your passport and Emirates ID, are valid.
• Clearance of pending fines or legal issues is necessary before changing or renewing a visa.

Do you need to leave the UAE before applying for a new visa?

You do not need to leave the UAE to apply for a new visa during the grace period. You can:

• Apply for a visa change status while remaining in the UAE through authorized typing centers or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) portal.

What is required to change visa status during the grace period?

It is easy to change your visa status during the grace period in the UAE. The best part is that you don't need to leave the country or spend long hours at the airport. You can change the type of visa without hassle, either when your visa has expired or within the grace period.

For that, it's essential to be aware of your grace period timeline and have the following documents ready:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
• A clear, colored, recent passport-sized photo with a white background.
• A copy of your previous visa, including canceled employment or tourist visa.

Can overstaying impact my capability to apply for future visas?

Yes, overstaying can negatively affect your future UAE visa possibilities:

• Travel ban: Severe overstays lead to a travel ban or blacklisting and deny one's re-entry into the UAE or any other GCC country.
• Visa rejections: Overstaying records can be red flags for future applications, and visa rejections are more possible.
• Employment impact: The employers may not sponsor those with a history of overstaying, limiting future job chances.
• Detention and deportation: The overstays can lead to detention, deportation, and a ban on re-entry.
• Legal proceedings: In extreme cases, people who overstay their visas may face legal action, resulting in major fines and complications.
• Financial burden: Overstaying lures immediate and daily fines and exit permit costs, which can be financially overburdened.

What happens if you leave the UAE without canceling your employment visa?

Leaving the UAE without canceling your employment visa is a severe issue. If you leave the country without formally resigning, settle all your liabilities, and cancel your visa, the employer will report you for absconding. An absconding report can have legal implications, such as arrest upon re-entering the UAE. Moreover, it might permanently bar you from re-entry into the UAE, which would be detrimental to future travel or employment.

How to check grace period after visa cancellation in the UAE?

To check the grace period after your UAE visa cancellation, follow these steps:

1. Follow the instructions to log in to the official ICP Smart Services portal.
2. Log in with your Emirates ID or passport details or create an account.
3. Under the "Public Services" section, go to the "File Validity" option to view your current visa status.
4. Enter your essential details, such as your passport number or Emirates ID.
5. Then, the system will display your visa status and grace period.
6. Contact ICP customer service or visit a service center for more assistance.

How does the new two-month grace period impact residents in the UAE?

The recent introduction of a two-month grace period after visa cancellation in the UAE brings several positive changes for residents:

1. Reduces immediate pressure: When their visa expires, residents are not subjected to immediate fines or legal action. This allows a grace period of 60 days to renew their visa or make necessary arrangements for leaving the country, relieving immediate stress.
2. Increased flexibility: The grace period also covers unexpected delays, such as a change of job or visa sponsorship delay, allowing more than enough time for an easy transition without risking legal status.
3. Promoting compassion and tolerance: This policy reflects the UAE's commitment to fairness. It gives residents a second chance if they unintentionally violate visa regulations, creating trust within the expatriate community.
4. Practical benefits for residents: The additional time allows residence visa holders to gather necessary documents, complete medical exams, and meet renewal requirements, making the process less complicated and reducing fines.
5. Support for employers and educational institutions: Less urgent visa renewals help employers and academic institutions plan better and retain employees and students.

FAQs

Is the grace period the same for all visa types?

No, the grace period varies based on the visa type, such as employment, residency, dependent, etc.

Can you search for a new job during the grace period?

Yes, you can look for another job throughout the grace period. The grace period is specifically aimed to let the individual get enough time to:

• Get another new employment.
• Switch over to a new residence visa
• Settle their affairs before getting out of the UAE.

Where can I obtain authorized information or help concerning the visa cancellation and grace period?

Official information about visa cancellations and grace periods can be accessed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) website or approved typing centers and service centers across the UAE. The ICP hotline can be contacted for support and guidance regarding visa-related queries or to check the status.

Can legal advisors or typing centers assist regarding overstays or visa renewals?

Legal advisors and typing centers can assist with visa overstays or filing for a visa extension. They can also guide the renewal process and indicate the required documents and legal procedures.

Can I exit the UAE during the grace period and return on a visit or tourist visa?

Yes, you can leave during the grace period and return on a visitor, tourist, or freelancer visa, but you must follow the procedures to re-enter.

Can my family members stay during the grace period?

Family members dependent on your visa usually have the same grace period, which may vary depending on their visa type. Check with the ICP for confirmation.

What role does the unemployment scheme play during the grace period after visa cancellation?

The unemployment scheme helps people who lose their jobs get an extension of legal stay in the UAE during the grace period granted after visas are canceled. This window allows them to look for another job or arrange leave without fines or penalties for overstaying.

What are the eligibility criteria for unemployment insurance?

Eligibility for unemployment insurance during the grace period depends on specific criteria set by the UAE government.