Can a criminal case cancel my residence?
Yes. Under Article 10 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 (Entry and Residence of Foreigners), the Chairman of the Federal Authority may at any time cancel a visa or residence permit before it expires, for reasons related to the public interest or if the foreigner violates the law, its regulation or related resolutions, with exceptions for Articles 22 and 24.
Cancellation does not require a conviction.
Can I be deported without being convicted?
The Federal Public Prosecutor or the Chairman, or their authorised representatives, may order deportation of a foreigner even if they hold a visa or residence permit, if required by public interest, security, morals or health, or if they have no apparent means of subsistence (Article 15).
The order may include supported family members, and detention for up to 30 days, extendable for a similar period, with the Federal Public Prosecutor's approval.
What happens if I am convicted?
A foreigner sentenced to a freedom-restricting penalty in a felony shall be deported (Article 126 of the Crimes and Penalties Law), a misdemeanour may lead to deportation, and drug offences require it with limited exceptions (Article 75 of the Narcotics Law).
A foreigner who is the spouse or first-degree relative of a citizen is protected under Article 126 except for crimes against State security.
Can I settle my affairs before leaving?
Yes. If a foreigner ordered deported has interests in the UAE that require settling, they are given time to liquidate them after submitting a guarantee (Article 17).
A person who has been deported may not return without the Chairman's permission (Article 18).
What should I do first?
Tell your lawyer about your visa and sponsor
They change the strategy.
Do not let permits lapse
Overstay adds fines.
Collect proof of family ties to UAE nationals
They are exceptions.
Plan settlement of affairs
Article 17 gives time against a guarantee.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Can the authorities cancel my visa during an investigation?
Yes, the Chairman can cancel a visa or permit at any time for public interest or violations (Article 10).
Can deportation be ordered without a trial?
Yes, in the cases in Article 15 of the Entry and Residence of Foreigners Law.
Can my family be deported with me?
The deportation order may include family members supported by the foreigner (Article 15(2)).
Can I come back?
Not without the Chairman's permission after deportation (Article 18).
Related guides
Expat & Tourist Criminal Cases overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewDeportation
When a court must or may order deportation, how it differs between ordinary crimes and drug offences, and the exception for family of UAE citizens.
Read the guideExpats and Tourists
Which UAE law applies to residents and visitors, what happens if the act was partly abroad, and the practical points that differ for foreigners.
Read the guideSources
Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 (Entry and Residence of Foreigners), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active and last updated on 16 September 2021. The Arabic text prevails over translations. Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 (Crimes and Penalties Law), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active and last updated on 7 September 2026. The Arabic text prevails over translations. Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 (Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active and last updated on 1 October 2025. The Arabic text prevails over translations.
This page is general information, not legal advice.