Dubai Visa Guide: Grace Periods for Expired or Cancelled Residence Visas

If your Dubai residence visa has expired or been cancelled, you may wonder how long you can remain in the UAE to secure a new job or residency. The UAE provides flexible grace periods for residents, ranging from 30 days to six months, depending on the visa category.

Checking Your Grace Period Online in Dubai

The UAE makes it easy to check your visa grace period using the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) portal. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the ICP Website
   Access the ICP smart services portal: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/.

2. Choose ‘Public Services’
   On the menu tab, click ‘Public Services’ and select ‘File Validity.’

3. Select Search Method
   Choose one of the following options:

   • Search by File Number (Emirates ID, Unified Number (UID), or File Number)
   • Search by Passport Information

4. Enter Details

   • For the passport option, provide your passport number, expiry date, and nationality.
   • For the file number option, input relevant details like your Emirates ID or UID.

5. Submit Information
   Enter your date of birth, complete the captcha, and click ‘Search.’

You will then see your allowed days to stay in Dubai.

Tip: When your residence visa is cancelled, the cancellation form includes the exact deadline by which you must exit the UAE or apply for a new visa.

Dubai Residence Visa Categories with Six-Month Grace Period

According to the UAE ICP, specific visa holders in Dubai are granted a six-month grace period after their visa expires. These categories include:

1. Golden Visa holders and their family members.
2. Green Visa holders and their family members.
3. Widows or divorcees of foreign residents in Dubai.
4. Students sponsored by universities after completing their studies.
5. Residents in skilled professions classified under the first and second levels by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

What to Do During the Grace Period

During the grace period, you can:

• Leave Dubai without incurring fines.
• Apply for a new residence visa to stay in the UAE.

Why Understanding Grace Periods is Crucial

Knowing your grace period ensures compliance with Dubai’s residency regulations and avoids overstay fines. By leveraging the UAE’s efficient online platforms, you can quickly check your status and plan your next steps accordingly.

Whether you’re a student, skilled professional, or a holder of special visas like the Golden Visa, Dubai offers flexible options to help you transition seamlessly. Keep this guide handy to stay informed about the city’s visa regulations!

Source :  Khaleejtimes