Introduction
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to millions of expatriates who move for better job opportunities. However, it’s common for employees to seek new employers after some time due to career growth, better salary, or workplace issues. If you are planning to switch jobs, you might wonder: how to change company in UAE?
The UAE government has clear rules for employment transfers, visa cancellation, and joining a new company. This guide explains the process step by step, covering legal requirements, employee rights, and tips for a smooth transition.
Understanding How to Change Company in UAE
Changing companies in the UAE involves ending your current employment contract, cancelling your residence visa, and applying for a new work visa under your new employer. The process is regulated by the UAE Labour Law under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Steps on How to Change Company in UAE
1. Review Your Employment Contract
- Contracts in the UAE can be limited-term or unlimited-term.
- Check your notice period, probation clause, and termination conditions.
- Ensure you comply with contract terms before resigning.
2. Submit Resignation to Current Employer
- Provide resignation in writing as per your notice period (usually 30–90 days).
- Your employer may waive the notice period if agreed mutually.
3. Settle Pending Dues
- Finalize salary, leave balance, gratuity, and end-of-service benefits.
- Ask for a salary certificate or experience letter if required.
4. Visa Cancellation
- Your current employer is responsible for cancelling your residence visa and labour card.
- Visa cancellation is processed through MOHRE and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
5. New Employer Applies for Work Permit
- Once your visa is cancelled, your new employer must apply for a new work permit.
- MOHRE issues an electronic work permit before your new visa is stamped.
6. Medical Test and Emirates ID
- Complete the mandatory medical fitness test.
- Apply for a new Emirates ID linked to your new employer.
7. New Residence Visa Stamping
- Your new employer finalizes the residence visa stamping under their sponsorship.
Rules to Know When Changing Company in UAE
- Probation Period: If you leave during probation, you must give 14 days’ notice, and in some cases, compensate your employer for recruitment costs.
- Labour Ban: Previously, employees faced labour bans when changing jobs, but recent reforms allow job changes without a ban, provided procedures are followed.
- Notice Period: Must be served as per your contract, unless both parties agree otherwise.
- End-of-Service Benefits: You are entitled to gratuity if you’ve completed at least 1 year of service.
Common Questions on How to Change Company in UAE
1. Can I change my company during probation in UAE?
Yes, but you must serve a 14-day notice. If you join another UAE company during probation, your new employer may have to compensate your old employer.
2. Do I need my employer’s approval to change jobs in UAE?
No, under current labour laws, employees can resign and change jobs by serving the notice period, without needing employer approval.
3. How long does the process take to change company in UAE?
Usually, the transition takes 2–4 weeks, depending on visa cancellation and new visa processing.
4. Can I change jobs if I have a limited contract?
Yes, but you must respect the contract terms. Early resignation may require compensation unless mutually agreed.
5. Who cancels my UAE residence visa when I change companies?
Your current employer is responsible for cancelling your visa and labour card before your new visa can be issued.
Tips for a Smooth Transition When Changing Company in UAE
- Always resign in writing and keep a copy.
- Ensure you receive all pending dues before visa cancellation.
- Do not stay in the UAE without a valid visa – apply for the new visa immediately.
- Keep copies of all documents (offer letter, resignation, visa cancellation).
- Use MOHRE’s website or app to track your labour contract and work permit status.
Conclusion
If you’re asking how to change company in UAE, the process involves resignation, visa cancellation, and transferring sponsorship to your new employer. Thanks to UAE’s updated labour laws, employees now enjoy more flexibility to switch jobs without unnecessary restrictions.
By following the correct legal procedures, you can smoothly transition to a new company, ensuring your career growth while staying compliant with UAE labour regulations.