Question: I have been working in Dubai for the past five years, and my family is under my sponsorship. If I accept a job in Abu Dhabi and relocate, will I need to change my family's visa immediately, or is it possible to use the 'visa hold' option until I settle down in Abu Dhabi?
Answer: When you resign from your job or your employer terminates your employment, your employer is required to cancel your work permit after you sign the necessary cancellation document. This process is in accordance with Article 7(3) of Cabinet Resolution No. (1) of 2022, which outlines the steps for canceling work permits. These steps include:
- Submitting a cancellation application through the designated channels by the Ministry.
- Completing the required information and attaching necessary documents.
- Paying any fines for delays in issuance or non-renewal of work permits.
- Obtaining a declaration from your employer confirming that you have received your entitlements.
- Meeting any additional conditions set by the Minister or their delegate.
Following this, your employer will cancel your residency visa in the UAE. As the sponsor of your family's residency visas, you have the option to place their visas on hold during your transition to a new employment visa. This ‘visa hold’ service allows you to keep their visas active for up to 60 days. If you prefer not to cancel their visas, you can notify the authorities of your intention to hold them until you secure your new employment visa.
To begin this process, you can visit an Amer Centre or contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, as your current visa is issued from Dubai, and your new employment visa will be from Abu Dhabi.
News Source: Khaleej Times
