Many expatriates can relate to losing a job or needing to change careers and return to the UAE, and not wanting to return home before that happens. Many people also ask if they can change their employment visa for a tourist visa without leaving the UAE.
The answer is yes: after the employment visa is cancelled, one has the option to apply for a tourist or visit visa and complete a status change, subject to approval. This article demonstrates how to navigate the UAE visa change process and the requirements needed to make it possible to stay legally until you’re able to get back to where you are needed.
This blog gives you all the information required to understand the steps involved in applying for a tourist visa in the UAE, including eligibility requirements, grace periods and how RenewVisa can assist you with the transition smoothly.
Can You Convert an Employment Visa to a Visit Visa in UAE?
Yes! Once the UAE Employment Visa is cancelled, you can apply for either a UAE Visit Visa and/or a UAE Tourist Visa based on your eligibility requirements and travel plans. This can be beneficial if:
- You are currently looking for a new job
- You are waiting for your new & approved work permit
- You are a family member who needs to arrange your sponsorship transfer
- You are someone who has had his/her job cancelled and wants more time to stay in the UAE
- You are a professional looking to explore other business opportunities
The UAE Visa Change process that involves A2A Visa Change, B2B Visa Change, and In-country Visa Extension provides a legal way for those with existing residence status to remain in the UAE while the conversion to a new status is approved.
What Happens When Your Work Permit is Cancelled in the UAE?
If your work visa has been cancelled, you still should have some avenues open for you.
- Transfer to Another Company
Another company can now obtain sponsorship for your work visa and residency in the UAE.
- Switch to a Visit Visa
Another option is that you can switch to a visit visa from your former work visa and continue to legally stay in the UAE.
- Leave the UAE for Renewal
Many people decide to go outside of the UAE and then return with a new visa.
- Apply for Another Residency Category
Some may qualify for a family sponsorship, freelance permission, investor’s visa, or some other type of residency in the UAE.
Which option is best for you will depend on your individual circumstances and future plans.
UAE Visa Change Without Exit: Is It Possible?
One of the biggest benefits of applying for a visa in the UAE is that you can now do it without switching between visas and leaving the country.
This means that if you already have a job in the UAE, but want to change from an employment-based visa to a visitor-based visa, you can now apply for that change from within the UAE.
It does not require you to travel internationally, is quicker and cheaper to process, is easy to apply for, and keeps you legally in the UAE at all times. This option is often called a UAE visa change or Dubai visa change.
Documents Required for UAE Visit Visa Application After Employment Visa
As per the UAE Immigration Department, Visa requirements vary from nationality to type of visa.
- A copy of your passport
- A passport-sized photo
- Details of your cancelled residence visa
- A copy of your Emirates ID (if applicable)
- A copy of your confirmed visa application form
- Any other supporting documentation that may be required.
Make sure you check the validity of your passport before applying.
UAE Tourist Visa Option After Your Job Is Cancelled
There are several visa types for travellers following the termination of their employment.
- UAE 30-Day Tourist Visa
The 30-day tourist visa is a short-term option and is ideal for travellers who need to apply quickly.
- UAE 60-Day Tourist Visa
The 60-day tourist visa is widely used by job seekers because it allows them to continue searching for work.
- UAE Travel Visa for Longer Stays
Longer-stay visas may be available to qualified applicants under current laws depending on current regulations.
When making your decision between the different types of visas, you will need to consider your travel plans, how long you expect to take looking for a new position, and your individual needs.
UAE Visa Transfer Rule To Know When Transferring Your Visa
Many expatriates are not clear on the rules surrounding visa transfer in the UAE.
The residence visa does not go from one employer to another; the current employer cancels their employment visa, and the new employer will apply for a new work permit. The new employer then issues the employee a residence visa.
If your residence visa has been cancelled and you require additional time in the UAE, you may consider applying for a visit visa.
Need Quick UAE Visa Assistance?
RenewVisa makes getting a UAE visitor visa after cancellation or changing the status of your UAE visa an easy task.
WhatsApp at- +971 56 505 7176
Why Choose RenewVisa for Your UAE Visit Visa?
At RenewVisa, we specialise in assisting our clients with visa renewals, visa extensions, processing visit visa applications, and assisting those individuals wishing to change their visa status within the UAE. We promise:
1) Expedited Processing
2) Transparent Pricing
3) Professional Advice
4) Application Status Updates
5) Assistance with Status Change Processes
6) Support Throughout the Visa Process
If you are looking for help changing your Dubai visa, renewing your UAE visa, or applying for a visit visa to the UAE, our team is ready to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions About UAE Visa Change
- Can you convert an Employment Visa to a Visit Visa in the UAE?
Yes, after your employment visa has been cancelled, you can apply for either a UAE Visitor Visa or a UAE Tourist Visa. Both can be done through the UAE Status Change Application Process.
- How to Change your Employment Visa to a Visit Visa in the UAE?
The general process consists of cancelling a residence visa and then applying for a visit visa. You will need to go through the standard procedures for changing from one type of visa to another.
- After cancelling my UAE employment visa, can I get a visit visa?
Yes, a number of expatriates have successfully applied for a tourist visa in the UAE after cancelling an employment visa, enabling them to continue living legally while searching for new employment or making future travel plans.
- What happens once my employment visa has been cancelled in the UAE?
Your residence visa has been cancelled and you may have a grace period where you can apply for a visit visa, find an alternative employer, or leave the UAE permanently.
- Can I remain in the UAE after my employment visa has been cancelled?
You are permitted to remain in the UAE as long as you take advantage of any grace period provided, or find an alternative visa before the grace period expires.
- Can I change my status in the UAE without having to leave, from an Employment Visa to a Visit Visa?
Yes, most people are able to change from an Employment Visa to a Visit visa without leaving the country.
- What is the grace period after cancelling my Employment Visa?
The UAE grace period after residence visa cancellation may range from 30 to 180 days, depending on the visa category and immigration regulations applicable to the individual. It is best that you confirm what your exact timeline will be based on your own situation and eligibility.
- Is it possible to get a Tourist Visa after cancelling my job in UAE?
Absolutely. Getting a Tourist Visa after cancelling your employment is one of the most popular options for expats who need to remain in the UAE for additional time.
Final Remarks By RenewVisa
Usually, it is relatively easy to convert your employment visa to visit visa in UAE. This gives you additional time to find your next job, arrange for a sponsor, or plan what you are going to do next. The main thing you need to understand is the procedure related to cancelling your UAE visa and reapplying for a UAE visitor visa before your grace period expires.
If your employment visa has been or will soon be cancelled, you can apply for a UAE visit visa or a UAE tourist visa will allow you to be in the country legally while you look for your new job.
RenewVisa can help you with all of the aspects of converting to a visit visa, helping you to achieve a successful and less stressful conversion process.
Begin The Process Of Getting Your UAE Visit Visa Now!
Do you need a UAE Visit Visa after your Employment has been cancelled? RenewVisa provides fast, reliable visa solutions and has many residents located throughout the UAE.
