Whether you’re switching jobs, leaving the UAE, or have just completed your employment contract, the final step is always visa cancellation. But how do you know for sure that the process is complete? It’s a common and important question, as your legal status in the country depends on it.
Waiting for confirmation can be nerve-wracking. Fortunately, you don’t have to rely on guesswork or wait for a phone call. The UAE government provides official, secure online portals where you can check your visa cancellation status yourself in just a few minutes.
This guide will show you exactly how to verify your visa cancellation, giving you the clarity and peace of mind you need.
First, Which Portal Should You Use?
Just like checking your visa validity, the correct portal for checking a cancellation depends on which Emirate issued your visa.
- ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security): Use this official portal if your visa was issued in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah.
- GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs): This portal is specifically for visas issued in Dubai.
Using the correct portal is the key to getting accurate information.
How to Check Visa Cancellation Status (for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) via ICP
The ICP Smart Services platform is the most direct way to check the status for most Emirates. The process is identical to checking your visa’s validity, but the results will show you if the visa is still active or has been cancelled.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Go to the ICP Website: Open your browser and navigate to the official ICP Smart Services portal:
https://icp.gov.ae. - Choose “Public Services”: You don’t need to log in. Look for a public-facing option on the homepage.
- Select “File Validity”: This is the service used to check the status of any visa file, active or cancelled.
- Search by “Passport Information”: This is the simplest method. Select the “Passport Information” tab.
- Select Visa Type: You’ll be asked to choose between “Residency” or “Visa”.
- If you had a residence visa stamped in your passport, choose “Residency.”
- If you are checking an entry permit, choose “Visa.”
- Enter Your Details: Carefully input your Passport Number, Passport Expiry Date, and your Nationality.
- Click Search: After completing the “I’m not a robot” check, click the search button.
What to Look For: The system will display your visa file details. If the visa has been successfully cancelled, you will typically see a message indicating the file is “Closed” or “Cancelled,” along with the cancellation date. If it still shows an active expiry date, the cancellation has not been processed yet.
How to Check Dubai Visa Cancellation Status via GDRFA
For visas issued in Dubai, the process is handled by the GDRFA. Their website is your go-to source for information.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the GDRFA Dubai Website: Navigate to the official portal:
https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en. - Find the “Visa Status” Service: Look for a service that allows you to inquire about your residency or entry permit status. It might be under a general “Services” tab.
- Use the “General Inquiry” Feature: The GDRFA portal has a powerful inquiry tool. You’ll likely need to input information like:
- Your File Number (from your visa page)
- Your First Name (as per your passport)
- Your Nationality and Date of Birth
- Submit Your Query: Complete the security captcha and submit your search.
What to Look For: The results page will show the current status of your residence file. If cancelled, it will clearly state that the visa is “Cancelled” and may show the date it was processed. If it still shows “Active” or displays a validity period, the cancellation is not yet reflected in the system.
What if My Labour Card / Work Permit is Cancelled?
For employment visas, the first step is cancelling your labour card or work permit through the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE). Your employer handles this process. Once the MOHRE cancellation is approved, the immigration authorities (ICP or GDRFA) proceed with the visa cancellation.
While you can’t check the immigration cancellation on the MOHRE site, confirming your work permit is cancelled is a good indicator that the full process is underway.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: My employer said my visa is cancelled, but the portal still shows it as active. What should I do? A: There can sometimes be a delay of a few working days for the system to update after the cancellation papers are submitted. Wait for 2-3 days and check again. If it still shows as active, follow up with your employer or PRO to ensure they have completed the process correctly.
Q: Can I check my visa cancellation status with just my passport number? A: Yes, for visas issued by Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the other Northern Emirates, the ICP portal allows you to check the status using only your passport number, expiry date, and nationality. This is the easiest method.
Q: How long do I have to leave the country after my visa is cancelled? A: After a residence visa is cancelled, you typically have a grace period (often 30 days, but this can vary) to either get a new visa or exit the UAE. It’s crucial to confirm your specific grace period to avoid overstay fines.
Q: Is it free to check the cancellation status? A: Absolutely. Using the official ICP and GDRFA government websites to check your status is 100% free.
Final Thoughts: Verify for Your Peace of Mind
Don’t leave your legal status to chance. Taking a few moments to check the official portals is the quickest and most reliable way to confirm that your UAE visa has been successfully cancelled. This simple step allows you to move forward with your plans, whether that’s starting a new job or beginning a new chapter outside the UAE, with complete confidence.
Want to Cancel or Renew Your Dubai Visa contact The Dubai PRO +971 5069 72512 hello@thedubaipro.com
