Holding Family Visa in UAE While Changing Work Visa from DMCC to Dubai Mainland: A Comprehensive Guide

When transitioning from a DMCC work visa to a Dubai mainland work visa, expatriates often need to manage their family visa concurrently. This process can be complex but is manageable with the right guidance. Here's a detailed step-by-step guide on how to hold your family visa temporarily in the UAE while undergoing such a work visa transition.

Steps to Hold Your Family Visa

Transitioning from a work visa at DMCC to a work visa at Dubai mainland can be a challenging process. However, you can hold your family visa in the UAE to ensure continuity for your family members. Follow these steps to successfully manage the process:

Contact the Relevant Authorities

Step 1: Reach out to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the relevant authority associated with your family visa.
You can contact them through their official website, office, or call their hotline. They will provide specific guidance based on your unique situation.

Gather Required Documents

Step 2: Prepare the necessary documents.
Collect the following documents to support your request:

Copies of your family members' passports and current visas Your new employment contract or proof of your new work visa application A letter requesting the suspension of the family visa

Submit a Request

Step 3: Visit the GDRFA office or use their online services to submit your request.
Consider visiting the GDRFA office if one is available in your area. Alternatively, you can use their online portal to submit your request more conveniently. Complete any required forms specifically for holding or canceling a visa before submission.

Pay Fees

Step 4: Be prepared to pay any applicable fees.
The fees can vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of the hold. Ensure you are aware of the costs associated with your particular situation and have the required payment method available.

Follow Up

Step 5: After submitting your request, follow up with the authorities.
Contact the GDRFA office or check their online status system to confirm that your family visa has been successfully put on hold. Keep track of any follow-up instructions provided by the authorities.

Additional Considerations

Duration of Hold
Confirm the length of the hold and understand the implications for your family members' residency status in the UAE during this period. Although the hold period typically varies, ensure you have a clear understanding of any potential implications.

COVID-19 Considerations
While many COVID-19 restrictions have eased, it is still advisable to check for any specific regulations or changes in procedures that may have arisen due to the pandemic.

Consult Legal Counsel
If you are unsure about any step or if your situation is complex, consider consulting with a legal expert or an immigration consultant who specializes in UAE immigration laws. They can provide tailored advice and support throughout the process.

Recent Experiences

While I don’t have access to specific recent experiences or changes post-2023, many expatriates have successfully navigated similar processes. It is advisable to check community forums or social media groups for current experiences and tips from others who have recently made similar transitions.

If you have more specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact the GDRFA or seek professional advice.