How do I cancel a residence visa in Abu Dhabi?

Residence visas issued in Abu Dhabi are processed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), which handles residency services for Abu Dhabi and most emirates outside Dubai. Cancellation can be done via the ICP smart application, the ICP website, or an approved Amer/typing-centre channel, with the sponsor usually initiating the request. For an employment visa, the work permit is cancelled through MOHRE (mainland) or the relevant free-zone authority first, then the residence permit is voided through ICP. For family/dependent visas, the sponsor cancels the dependents' permits. You will generally need the sponsor's and dependent's passport and Emirates ID details and the visa file number. Keep the cancellation confirmation, as it evidences your lawful exit or transfer. A grace period normally follows cancellation before you must leave or switch status. Always confirm the current ICP procedure and required documents on the official channels, since service steps are updated periodically. For complex cases—disputes, overstays, or stalled cancellations—you can compare verified UAE immigration professionals on LEXAI.