Complete Guide to No Objection Letter (NOC) from Sponsor in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the employment sponsorship system (kafala) requires foreign workers to obtain a No Objection Letter (NOC) from their sponsor for certain legal processes. This document is essential for procedures like job transfers, visa cancellations, or business setups. This comprehensive guide covers:

1. What is a No Objection Letter?
2. When is an NOC Required?
3. Key Components of a Valid NOC
4. How to Obtain an NOC
5. Consequences of Not Having an NOC
6. Differences Between Emirates

1. What is a No Objection Letter?

A No Objection Letter (NOC) is a legal document issued by a sponsor (employer or family sponsor) stating they have no objection to the worker taking a specific action, such as:

• Changing employers
• Canceling a work visa
• Traveling outside the country (in some cases)
• Starting a business

Without this document, many legal transactions cannot be completed.

2. When is an NOC Required?

a) Job Transfer

To transfer your visa to a new employer, your current sponsor must issue an NOC. This applies even if your contract has ended.

b) Visa Cancellation

If you wish to cancel your UAE residency, some companies require an NOC before processing the cancellation.

c) Business License

Expatriates wanting to establish a company in the UAE need an NOC if they're under employment sponsorship.

d) Emergency Travel

Some companies retain passports and require an NOC to authorize international travel.

3. Key Components of a Valid NOC

A proper no objection letter must include:✅ Full name of sponsor and employee

✅ Passport number and UAE ID

✅ Purpose of NOC (e.g., "I have no objection to [name] transferring their visa to [new company]")

✅ Company stamp and authorized signature

✅ Issue dateSample Template:

To Whom It May Concern,

I, [Sponsor's Name], legal representative of [Company Name], hereby declare no objection to [Employee's Name], holder of passport number [XXX], canceling their work visa with our company effective [Date].Sincerely,

[Authorized Signature]

[Company Stamp]

4. How to Obtain an NOC

Step 1: Formal Request

Submit a written application to your employer explaining your need for an NOC.

Step 2: Negotiation

Some companies may request penalty payments or set special conditions.

Step 3: Issuance

If approved, the company should prepare the letter on official letterhead with stamp.

Step 4: Translation & Attestation

If the NOC is in Arabic, certified translation may be needed for certain procedures.

5. What If My Sponsor Refuses to Issue an NOC?

• Private Sector: You can file a complaint with MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation).
• Dubai: Tasheel (government service centers) can mediate disputes.
• Family Visa: Cases may be escalated to courts if a spouse/parent refuses.

Without an NOC, you cannot legally change jobs until your contract ends.

6. Differences Between Emirates

• Dubai: Generally more flexible, allowing job changes without NOC after contract completion.
• Abu Dhabi: More strict; many employers insist on NOC even after contract ends.
• Free Zones: Companies in DAFZA or DMCC may have different regulations.

The No Objection Letter is a critical requirement in the UAE for employment and legal changes. If planning a job transfer or business setup:✔ Discuss with your employer in advance

✔ Check if your contract mandates an NOC

✔ Contact MOHRE for disputesNeed help with your NOC? Comment below with your situation!Keywords: UAE NOC, no objection letter, change jobs in Dubai, cancel UAE visa.