Key Takeaways:
- The UAE has suspended the transferability of employment sponsorship visas between free zones, impacting expatriate employees.
- Companies must now follow the standard immigration process for new hires and individuals must go through a more complex visa transfer process.
- In-country visa amendment and change status processes remain in effect, but dependents’ visa applications are affected.
Understanding UAE’s Visa Transfer Suspension for Free Zone Companies
In a significant immigration update, the UAE has put a hold on the transferability of employment sponsorship visas between its free zones. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs announced this change, which has a direct impact on how free zone companies manage their expatriate employees. If you’re a business operating in this ecosystem or an individual employed within it, here’s what you need to know.
Immediate Suspension of Visa Transfer Services
The Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has declared, “visa transfer services have been suspended effective immediately to all free zones until further notice.” This abrupt halt means that companies can no longer transfer an employment sponsorship visa from one free zone to another through the previously available mechanism.
Standard Immigration Process Now Required
Businesses now face a return to conventional practices, as the suspension mandates that all new hires follow the standard immigration protocol. Without the option to streamline the transfer process, companies must become more diligent in planning their recruitment and visa procedures.
New Visa Service for Employment Transfers
For employees looking to switch companies within free zones, the process just became a bit more cumbersome. “Individuals seeking to transfer their visa must first apply for cancellation and then proceed with an application under the new visa service,” the ICP explains. This adds an additional step to what was previously a more straightforward transition.
Continuation of In-Country Visa Amendment and Change Status Process
It’s not all about stopping processes; there are aspects of the visa system that remain intact. The UAE authorities have confirmed that “the same in-country visa amendment and change status process is still applicable.” This should provide some relief to those concerned about broader disruptions to visa services.
Impact on Dependents’ Visa Applications
The visa transfer suspension also affects dependents of employees working in the free zones. The good rule of thumb is to secure dependent visas before initiating the cancellation process for the main applicant’s visa. This way, families can ensure continuity in their residency status during transitions.
Final Thoughts
For now, UAE free zone companies and their employees must adapt to this new immigration landscape. The suspension of visa transfer services signals a tightening of the process, which requires increased attention to detail and perhaps more robust HR support.
For the most up-to-date information, refer to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs or consult with a professional familiar with UAE immigration laws. The current environment underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared for changes in immigration regulations that can significantly impact business operations and individual residency status.
So there you have it, folks! The UAE’s visa transfer suspension has brought a twist to the free zone employment scene. It’s like a rollercoaster ride, but we’ll get through it! For more details and updates on immigration news, head over to visaverge.com. Stay informed, stay curious, and may the visa odds be ever in your favor! 🎢✨
This Article in a Nutshell:
The UAE has temporarily suspended visa transfers between free zones, impacting how companies manage expatriate employees. New hires must follow standard immigration procedures, while existing employees must first cancel their visa before applying for a new one under the new service. Dependents should secure visas before canceling the main applicant’s visa. Stay informed and consult the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
