Can Dubai resident change jobs when passport has expired?

Keren Bobker advises a South African worker who has a job offer but is concerned about the implications of an expired passport.

I am from South Africa and my passport has expired. I did apply for a new passport well in advance, but I still haven’t received it. My residency and work permits are still valid for another 12 months, but I have received the opportunity of a lifetime from another company. My concern is that if I take this position, what will happen with my passport that has already expired? Will they still be able to transfer sponsorship and apply for a work permit using my expired passport? TR, Dubai

Although people use the term "transferring" in respect of sponsorship and visas, the fact is that on changing employer the existing visa is cancelled and then the new employer applies for an entirely new visa. A visa can only be applied for with a valid passport and can only be added to a current passport. A physical passport is required to cancel the existing visa and to start the application process for the new one. TR will need to chase up the South African Consulate to obtain a new passport to make the required changes, as she cannot apply for a new visa through a new employer without this.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years’ experience. Contact her at [e-mail]. Follow her on Twitter at @FinancialUAE

The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only