When a domestic worker's employment in UAE ends — whether by contract completion, resignation, or termination — you must officially cancel their work permit and residence visa through MOHRE. Failing to do so keeps you legally responsible for the worker. This guide covers the complete cancellation process for 2026.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 📋 Service | Work Permit & Residence Visa Cancellation — Domestic Worker |
| 📱 Apply Via | MOHRE Work Bundle / MOHRE App |
| 🏛️ Via Tadbeer | Any MOHRE-approved Tadbeer center |
| ⏱️ Processing | 3–5 business days |
| 💰 Cost | AED 110–350 (cancellation fees apply) |
| ✈️ Return Ticket | Employer must provide return air ticket to home country |
📋 When Must You Cancel the Domestic Worker's Visa?
- ✅ 2-year contract has ended and not being renewed
- ✅ Employer is terminating the employment before contract end
- ✅ Domestic worker has resigned and is leaving UAE
- ✅ Domestic worker has passed away
- ✅ Employer is leaving UAE permanently
⚠️ If you do not cancel the domestic worker's visa, you remain their legal sponsor in UAE — responsible for their actions, overstay fines, and any legal issues. Always cancel promptly when employment ends.
💰 Employer Obligations at Cancellation
- ✅ Pay all outstanding salary up to the last working day
- ✅ Pay end-of-service gratuity (14 days per year of service)
- ✅ Provide return air ticket to home country
- ✅ Cancel the work permit and residence visa through MOHRE
- ✅ Return the worker's passport (if held — which is illegal to hold)
📋 Required Documents
- Employer's Emirates ID — valid copy
- Employer's passport — valid copy
- Domestic worker's passport — copy
- Domestic worker's Emirates ID (if issued)
- Current work permit details
- Reason for cancellation — contract end, resignation, or termination
🔄 How to Cancel
📱 Via MOHRE Work Bundle App
Navigate to the cancellation service.
Work permit number, passport number, reason for cancellation.
Attach employer and worker ID documents.
Receive reference number for tracking.
Process payment via the app.
Worker must exit UAE within grace period (typically 30 days).
🏛️ Via Tadbeer Center
Visit any MOHRE-approved Tadbeer center with all documents. The center handles the full cancellation process including GDRFA coordination.
✈️ What Happens to the Worker After Cancellation?
- 📋 Worker receives a 30-day grace period to exit UAE or transfer to a new sponsor
- 🔄 Worker can transfer to a new employer if they have a new offer
- ✈️ Worker receives return air ticket from employer and departs UAE
- ⚠️ If worker stays beyond grace period: overstay fines apply (AED 25/day)
Can I cancel a domestic worker visa online?
Yes — through the MOHRE Smart App or Work Bundle platform. The process is fully digital and typically takes 3–5 business days.
Do I have to pay the maid's return ticket?
Yes — employers are legally required to provide a return air ticket to the domestic worker's home country at the end of the employment contract.
What if the domestic worker wants to stay in UAE?
The worker can stay if they find a new employer who agrees to sponsor them. They must transfer their visa to the new employer before your cancellation grace period expires.
Is there a penalty for late cancellation?
MOHRE does not typically fine employers for delayed cancellation, but you remain legally and financially responsible for the worker until cancellation is complete. Overstay fines are the worker's responsibility but can reflect on your record.
How long after cancellation can the worker stay in UAE?
Workers typically receive a 30-day grace period from the date of visa cancellation to either exit UAE or transfer to a new sponsor.
🏠 Find a MOHRE-Verified Tadbeer Center Near You
GCC Domestic has the most complete directory of 137+ MOHRE-approved Tadbeer centers across all 7 UAE emirates. Compare centers, view WhatsApp contacts, and hire legally — zero commission.
📌 Source: MOHRE UAE Official Website — Updated 2026. Always verify latest requirements at mohre.gov.ae.