Quick Answer: Since February 2022, UAE employees have been able to change jobs without a No Objection Certificate from their current employers. You must serve notice period (30-90 days per contract), resign properly, and wait for visa cancellation. The new employer applies for a work permit through MOHRE and completes an in-country visa transfer without leaving the UAE. The total process takes 2-4 weeks after the notice period. Costs AED 3,000-6,000 for new visa processing.
Introduction
Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 eliminated the requirement for a No Objection Certificate for job changes in the UAE, thereby granting employees the legal right to switch employers after serving contractual notice periods. This change promotes worker mobility while ensuring employer interests are protected through proper resignation procedures.
How Job Change Rules Changed in 2022
Before February 2022, changing jobs required NOC from your current employer. Employers could impose 6-month labor bans. This created employer dependency and limited career mobility.
Current law removes NOC requirements and automatic labor bans. Employees can transfer after completing notice periods without employer permission. The change applies to mainland and most free zone employees.
| Requirement | Before 2022 | After 2022 |
| NOC needed | Yes | No |
| Labor ban risk | 6 months possible | No automatic ban |
| Employer control | High | Limited to the notice period |
| Employee mobility | Restricted | Free movement |
Notice Period Requirements
Standard Contracts
Employment contracts must specify notice periods between 30 and 90 days. The 30-day minimum applies even if your contract does not mention notice. Anything beyond 90 days is legally unenforceable.
Probation Period
During probation (maximum 6 months), either party gives 14 days’ written notice. If an employee plans to leave the UAE, 30 days’ notice is required. The first month of probation requires no notice from either party.
When Notice Not Required
You can resign immediately without notice if the employer commits a serious breach: physical assault, severe safety risks, substantial non-payment of wages, or major contract violations.
| Employment Stage | Employee Notice | Employer Notice |
| First month probation | None required | None required |
| Probation (months 2-6) | 14 days | 14 days |
| After probation | 30-90 days per contract | 30-90 days per contract |
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
1. Submit Written Resignation: Providea written resignation letter to your current employer stating your last working day per contract notice period.
2. Serve Notice Period: Continue working and receiving full salary during notice. Cannot start new job until notice is complete.
3. Complete Handover: Transfer responsibilities and complete pending work. The employer prepares the experience letter and final settlement.
4. Receive Final Settlement: Employer pays pending salary, unused leave, gratuity (if eligible), and any bonuses within 14 days.
5. Visa Cancellation: Your current employer cancels your residence visa and labor card. This triggers a 30-day grace period.
6. New Employer Work Permit: New employer applies for MOHRE work permit approval (2-3 days processing).
7. Medical Test & Biometrics: Complete mandatory medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics at approved centers.
8. New Visa Stamping: New employer completes residence visa processing. Visa links electronically to the Emirates ID.
In-Country vs Exit Transfer
In-Country Transfer
Process visa transfer while remaining in the UAE. Available since the 2021 reforms. No exit/re-entry required. The new employer files a “change status” application through immigration. Must be completed before the 30-day grace period expires.
Exit Transfer
Leave the UAE after visa cancellation; re-enter on a new employment visa. Sometimes required for free zone to mainland transfers or specific visa types. Creates a clean break between employers.
| Factor | In-Country | Exit Transfer |
| Leave UAE | Not required | Required |
| Timeline | 2-4 weeks | 3-5 weeks |
| Additional costs | None | Flight tickets |
| Best for | Most mainland transfers | Free zone switches |
Cost and Timeline
A new employer typically covers all visa processing costs, and the process from resignation to start date typically takes 6-10 weeks, including the notice period.
| Item | Cost/Time |
| Notice period | 30-90 days (full salary) |
| Visa cancellation | 1-2 days |
| MOHRE work permit | AED 2,000 / 2-3 days |
| Medical & Emirates ID | AED 670-870 / 2-3 days |
| New visa processing | AED 1,000-3,000 / 5-10 days |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Starting a new job before notice completion: Working for a new employer while still on a current visa is illegal employment. Wait until the visa expires.
Not Serving Full Notice Period: Employer can deduct salary equal to unserved notice days. May also claim additional damages through the labor court.
Missing Grace Period Deadline: After visa cancellation, you have 30 days to obtain a new visa or leave the UAE. Overstay fines are AED 125 per day.
Accepting a Job Without a Verified Company: Ensure the new employer is MOHRE-registered and has a valid trade license. Check the company’s legitimacy before resigning.
Not Getting Final Settlement in Writing: Document all dues, gratuity calculations, and settlement amounts. Get signed confirmation from the employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need NOC to change jobs in the UAE?
No. Since February 2022, an NOC has not been required. You need to complete your contractual notice period and follow the proper resignation procedures.
Can I change jobs during the probation period?
Yes. Provide 14 days’ written notice (or 30 days if leaving the UAE). The new employer must compensate the current employer for recruitment costs.
What happens to my family visa when I change jobs?
Family visas cancel when your employment visa cancels. Once the new visa is processed, you can sponsor family again if your salary meets requirements. For complete family sponsorship details, see the UAE employment visa guide.
How long does a visa transfer take?
In-country transfer takes 2-4 weeks after the notice period ends. The total process from resignation to start of the new job is 6-10 weeks, including notice.
Can I work for two companies during the notice period?
No. You cannot legally work for a new employer until your current visa expires and a new work permit is approved. Dual employment violates labor law.
Official Sources
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation: https://www.mohre.gov.ae
Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship: https://www.icp.gov.ae
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about UAE visa transfer procedures and is not legal advice. Immigration and labor laws are subject to change. For specific guidance on your situation, consult with qualified immigration advisors or legal professionals. Always verify current requirements with MOHRE and immigration authorities before making employment decisions.
Last Updated: February, 2026
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