Navigating through visa procedures in the UAE can be a bit of a puzzle, especially if you’re unsure about the current status of your residency or employment visa. Whether you’re switching jobs, exiting the country, or your employment has recently ended, knowing “how to check if my visa is cancelled in UAE” is crucial to avoid overstay fines or legal issues.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through all the methods to verify your visa cancellation status in the UAE. You’ll also find frequently asked questions, tips, and relevant government links to help you stay informed and compliant with UAE immigration laws.

TL;DR – How to Check If My Visa Is Cancelled in UAE

Use Official Portals: Check your visa status online via the ICP Smart Services (for all Emirates) or GDRFA Dubai (for Dubai visas).
Look for “Cancelled” Status: Enter your passport or visa details—if your visa is cancelled, the system will show it as “inactive” or “cancelled.”
Check with Your Employer/PRO: Ask for the official visa cancellation document to confirm your status.
Monitor Warning Signs: Inactive Emirates ID, blocked bank services, or HR system removal may indicate your visa is cancelled.
Contact Authorities if Unsure: Call GDRFA at 800 5111 or ICP at 600522222 for real-time updates and help.

Why It’s Important to Know Your Visa Cancellation Status

Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand why checking your visa cancellation status matters:

Avoid overstaying penalties (fines can go up to AED 50 daily).
Ensure a smooth transition between jobs or visas.
Prevent unexpected travel bans.
Prepare for exit procedures or new visa applications.
Protect your legal status in the UAE.

How to Check If My Visa Is Cancelled in UAE – Top Methods Explained

✅ 1. Checking via GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) Website

The GDRFA is the primary body that handles visa and residency matters in the UAE. If your visa was issued in Dubai, this is your go-to platform.

Steps:
Visit the GDRFA Dubai official website.

Navigate to “Services” → “Visa Status Inquiry.”
Select “Residence” and enter your passport number, visa file number, nationality, and date of birth.
Click on “Submit.”
If your visa shows as inactive or cancelled, it means your cancellation has been processed.

Tip: Make sure your internet connection is stable, and all details are correctly typed to avoid errors in verification.

✅ 2. Using the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) Portal

For visas issued in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Umm Al Quwain, the ICP platform is the correct option.

Steps:
Visit the ICP Smart Services portal.
Go to “File Validity” under Public Services.
Enter your Emirates ID number, passport number, or visa number.
You’ll see the current status of your visa. If it’s cancelled, it will be clearly mentioned.

This is an official and most accurate method for UAE visa verification.

Related Tip: Understanding Grace Period After Visa Cancellation

When your visa is cancelled, you typically get a grace period of 30-90 days to either:

Exit the UAE
Apply for a new visa
Convert your visa status (like tourist to resident)

During this time, you won’t be fined. But once it ends, overstay penalties kick in, starting at AED 50 per day, increasing depending on the duration of the overstay.

3. Using the GDRFA Dubai Mobile App

If you’re always on the move, you can use the GDRFA mobile app (available on Android and iOS).

Here’s how:
Download the “GDRFA Dubai” app from the App Store or Google Play.
Create an account or log in using your UAE Pass.
Navigate to the “Visa Inquiry” service.
Enter your visa details.

The app provides real-time updates about your visa, including the cancellation status.

4. Contacting Your PRO or Sponsor

Your PRO (Public Relations Officer) or employer’s HR department should provide you with a visa cancellation paper (commonly known as the visa cancellation document). This document includes:

Your name
Passport number
UID number
Cancellation date
Company details

If you haven’t received this yet, follow up immediately. It’s your right to get this document once your visa is cancelled.

5. Receiving the Visa Cancellation Paper

Your visa is officially cancelled only when:

The visa cancellation application is approved by GDRFA or ICP.
You receive a copy of the stamped visa cancellation document.

Make sure to retain a digital and physical copy for future reference, especially if you’re planning to:

Apply for a new visa
Leave the country
Lodge a labour complaint

⚠️ How to Know If Someone Else Cancelled Your Visa Without Telling You

Unfortunately, it can happen—especially in case of disputes with employers. If you suspect your visa has been cancelled without your consent, here’s what to do:

Use the above online tools (ICP or GDRFA).
Call the ICP Call Center at 600522222.
Contact GDRFA at 800 5111 (within UAE).

Pro Tip: If you find out that your visa has been cancelled but you were not notified, file a formal complaint through the MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) or the labour court.

️‍♂️ Signs That Your Visa Might Be Cancelled

Here are a few red flags:

You can’t access your Emirates ID services.
Your labour card is invalid.
Your bank account or mobile number linked to your Emirates ID becomes inactive.
Your employer removes you from the company system.

If any of these apply to you, it’s time to check your visa status urgently.

Internal Resources for Further Help

UAE Visa Services – White Sky Travel
UAE A2A Visa Renewal & Tourist Visa Guide – Everything about extending or changing tourist visas.

External Resources You Can Trust

These are the only official government platforms where your visa status can be verified safely and legally.

What to Do After Your Visa Gets Cancelled

Once your visa cancellation is confirmed, you have a few options:

Exit UAE within the grace period.
Apply for a tourist visa, which you can get from agencies like White Sky Travel.
Transfer your sponsorship if you’ve found a new job.
Convert to a freelance visa or partner visa (if eligible).

Always consult a licensed travel agency or legal advisor before making a move.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Is there a fee to check if my visa is cancelled in UAE?
No, both the ICP and GDRFA platforms provide this service for free.

❓ Can I check my visa status without an Emirates ID?
Yes, you can use your passport number or visa file number.

❓ What if my visa is still active but I left the country?
If you’ve been out of the UAE for more than 6 months, your visa might have been automatically cancelled.

❓ How long does it take for visa cancellation to reflect?
Usually, it takes 1 to 2 working days after submission.

❓ How can I check my UAE visa status online?

You can check your UAE visa status online through these official websites:

For Dubai visas: Visit GDRFA Dubai website, go to the “Visa Status Inquiry”, and enter your details.
For other Emirates: Visit ICP Smart Services, click on “File Validity”, and enter your passport or Emirates ID details.

❓ How can I check if my visa is still active?

To check if your visa is still active, go to the ICP Smart Services portal or the GDRFA Dubai website, and enter your visa details. If your visa is still valid, the system will show it as “active”. If it’s cancelled or expired, you’ll see that status clearly displayed.

❓ How do I check if they cancelled my visa?

You can check if your visa has been cancelled by:

Visiting the ICP portal or GDRFA Dubai website/app.
Entering your passport number or Emirates ID in the visa inquiry section.
Contacting your employer or PRO to request a copy of the visa cancellation document.
Calling the ICP customer service (600522222) or GDRFA helpline (800 5111) for assistance.

✅ Conclusion

So, how to check if my visa is cancelled in UAE? It’s easier than ever with the right tools and knowledge. Whether you’re using the GDRFA portal, ICP services, or relying on your sponsor, staying updated on your visa status is key to protecting your rights and planning your future moves.

Make sure to use official channels only and keep your documentation safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late—regularly checking your visa status helps you avoid unwanted surprises and keeps you in control.