MOHRE Grace Period – Grace Period In UAE
MOHRE Grace Period. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) plays a critical role in regulating labor relations, employment policies, and visa procedures for the private sector. One of the essential aspects under its regulation is the MOHRE Grace Period, which provides residents and employees a defined duration to regularize their status after visa cancellation or expiry.
This article explores the two-month grace period in detail, its implications for UAE residents, and the responsibilities of employers and employees. Whether you’re a job seeker, expatriate, or HR professional, this complete guide will ensure you stay compliant and informed.
What is the MOHRE Grace Period?
The MOHRE Grace Period refers to the legally allowed duration after the cancellation or expiry of a UAE work visa during which the individual can remain in the country without incurring any overstay penalties. MOHRE stands for the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, which oversees labour relations and employment in the private sector.
When a work visa is cancelled or reaches its expiry date, expatriates are typically granted a two-month grace period to either:
- Find a new job and transfer their visa,
- Exit the country voluntarily, or
- Adjust their visa status to a different category (such as tourist or dependent visa).
Read also: MOHRE Explains Grace Period For Emiratisation Compliance
Who Is Eligible for the MOHRE Grace Period?
Eligibility for the MOHRE Grace Period typically includes:
| Category | Eligibility for Grace Period |
|---|---|
| Private sector employees | Yes |
| Government employees | Varies by authority |
| Domestic workers | Yes (usually shorter) |
| Dependents on sponsorship | Yes (based on sponsor’s visa status) |
| Freelancers and self-sponsored | Depends on visa category |
Please note that the exact grace period may vary depending on recent regulations or the type of visa held.
Duration of the Grace Period
As of the latest regulations, MOHRE provides a two-month grace period (60 calendar days) to individuals after cancellation of their work visa. During this period:
- No overstay fines are applied.
- The individual can look for new employment or make exit arrangements.
- The status can be adjusted legally within the UAE.
This two-month grace period starts from the date of cancellation, not the expiry date of the visa.
How to Use the MOHRE Grace Period Effectively
To make the most of the MOHRE Grace Period, individuals and employers should take timely action:
For Employees
- Act Quickly: Start your job hunt immediately after cancellation.
- Update Documents: Keep your Emirates ID, passport, and visa cancellation papers ready.
- Apply for a Visit or Tourist Visa (if needed): Once the grace period ends and no new sponsorship is secured, switch to a visit visa if eligible.
For Employers
- Notify MOHRE Promptly: Cancellation must be done according to UAE labor laws.
- Provide End-of-Service Benefits: Ensure dues are paid before finalizing visa cancellation.
Scenarios Covered Under the MOHRE Grace Period
| Scenario | Grace Period Applicability |
|---|---|
| Job loss due to company closure | 60 days grace period |
| Resignation or contract termination | 60 days grace period |
| Retirement or end of contract | 60 days grace period |
| Dependents of cancelled sponsors | 60 days grace period for renewal/change |
How to Check the Start Date of Your Grace Period?
The MOHRE Grace Period begins immediately after your employment visa is officially cancelled. Here’s how to find the start date:
- Request a cancellation letter from your employer.
- Use the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) portal or MOHRE website to verify your cancellation status.
- Count 60 days from the cancellation date to calculate your grace period deadline.
What Happens After the MOHRE Grace Period?
Failure to secure a new visa or exit the UAE within the two-month grace period results in penalties and overstay fines. As of current UAE rules:
- Overstay fine: AED 50 per day
- Additional administrative penalties may apply
To avoid complications:
- Exit the UAE before the grace period ends
- Apply for a visit visa
- Transfer sponsorship to a new employer
Recent Updates and Reforms
MOHRE continuously revises and updates labor laws to streamline employment and visa compliance. One of the major reforms was extending the grace period from 30 to 60 days for most employees.
Key Highlights
- Introduced as part of UAE Labour Law Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021
- Encourages job mobility and flexibility
- Supports humanitarian concerns by preventing abrupt deportation
Impact of MOHRE Grace Period on Job Seekers
The MOHRE Grace Period offers job seekers in the UAE a breathing space to reassess their career options. With many employers offering shortlisting and interviews that take weeks, the 60-day period provides ample time to:
- Attend interviews
- Finalize employment contracts
- Submit visa transfer requests
For those unable to find a job, it’s advisable to exit the country before the end of the grace period to avoid future visa complications.
MOHRE Guidelines for Employers
Employers must follow MOHRE legal framework to avoid fines and restrictions. This includes:
- Canceling visas through MOHRE e-services or authorized typing centers
- Providing NOC (No Objection Certificate) if required
- Ensuring accurate entry of employee exit dates in MOHRE systems
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Delaying Job Search: Waiting too long to begin looking for new work can result in overstaying.
- Inaccurate Visa Dates: Misunderstanding the start of the grace period could lead to fines.
- Ignoring Legal Updates: Always refer to the official MOHRE website or consult PROs.
MOHRE Grace Period Fine
| Condition | Action Required | Fine if Ignored |
|---|---|---|
| Visa expired or cancelled | Find job or exit UAE within 60 days | AED 50/day overstay fine |
| No visa transfer post grace period | Leave the UAE or change status | Additional penalties, possible entry ban |
Consequences of Overstaying After the Grace Period
Failing to exit the UAE or regularize your status after the two-month grace period ends can lead to serious consequences:
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| 1st Day After Grace Period | AED 50 per day |
| 1–30 Days Overstay | AED 1,500+ |
| Over 30 Days | Travel ban or immigration record issues |
To avoid such penalties, always monitor your grace period deadline and take necessary actions in time.
Key Features of the Two-Month Grace Period
Here are the main characteristics of the two-month grace period granted by MOHRE:
1. Duration
The standard grace period is 60 days (2 months) from the date of visa cancellation.
2. No Fines During Grace Period
You will not be fined for overstaying during this period. Overstay fines apply only after the grace period ends.
3. Allows Time to Find a New Job
The period can be used to search for new employment and process a new work permit or labour contract through MOHRE.
4. Multiple Options for Visa Transition
You can switch to another visa type (visit visa, family sponsorship, or student visa) during this period without exiting the country.
MOHRE Services for Grace Period Support
If you are uncertain about your status or grace period calculation, use the official contact points below:
| Method | Contact Info |
|---|---|
| MOHRE Call Centre | 800 60 |
| MOHRE Website | https://www.mohre.gov.ae |
| ICP Portal | https://icp.gov.ae |
FAQs About MOHRE Grace Period
Can I stay in the UAE after my visa is cancelled?
Ans: Yes, you can stay for up to 60 days under the MOHRE Grace Period without incurring overstay fines.
Is the MOHRE Grace Period applicable to all visa types?
Ans: No, it mainly applies to employment visas regulated by MOHRE. For residency visas under other authorities (e.g., free zones), check separately.
Can I convert my visa during the grace period?
Ans: Yes, you can apply for a new job visa or tourist visa during this period.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Stay Informed
The MOHRE Grace Period is a valuable opportunity for individuals in the UAE to remain legally compliant while transitioning between jobs or preparing to exit the country. By understanding the rules and acting promptly, employees and employers alike can avoid fines, penalties, and unnecessary legal troubles.
