How do I confirm my old UAE visa was cancelled before starting a new job?

Before a new UAE employer applies for your work and residence visa, you should confirm that your previous residence visa is fully cancelled in the system, because an active prior visa can block the new application. Check the status through the official channels: ICP smart services for visas issued outside Dubai, or the GDRFA Dubai app/website for Dubai-issued visas, using your passport, Emirates ID, or visa file number. Ask your former employer for the cancellation paper and its reference, then cross-check that the authority's records show the visa as cancelled rather than merely expired or pending. If the work permit was through MOHRE (mainland), confirm the labour side is closed too; free-zone roles are closed through the relevant free-zone authority. Resolving any mismatch before your new employer submits avoids delays and rejection. Because service steps change periodically, rely on the live status shown on the official channel rather than assumptions. If a former sponsor will not complete a lawful cancellation and it is blocking your new job, you can compare verified UAE labour and immigration professionals on LEXAI.