How do I cancel an employment residence visa in the UAE?

An employment residence visa in the UAE is cancelled by the sponsoring employer, and the process generally has two linked parts: cancelling the labour/work permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for mainland workers, and cancelling the residence permit through ICP or, in Dubai, GDRFA. Free-zone employees are cancelled through their respective free-zone authority instead of MOHRE. The employer usually initiates the request, the worker's passport and Emirates ID details are provided, and the residence stamp/file is voided in the system. You should keep a copy of the cancellation paper, as it is proof you can show a future employer and at the airport. Make sure end-of-service entitlements and any outstanding work matters are settled before signing, because cancellation closes the labour relationship. After cancellation, a grace period applies before you must exit or move to a new status. Confirm the current procedure and any documents through MOHRE and ICP/GDRFA. If your employer delays or refuses a lawful cancellation, you can compare verified UAE labour and immigration lawyers on LEXAI.