The UAE is preparing to introduce its first residency visa amnesty in six years, offering individuals with expired visas a chance to either regularize their status or exit the country without penalties. This government initiative provides a two-month period for those with lapsed residency visas to take necessary action.
Amnesty Start Date
The amnesty period is set to begin on September 1 and will continue until November 1. While this timeline has been confirmed by authorities, similar past initiatives have sometimes been extended beyond the initial dates.
Who is Managing the Amnesty?
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) will be in charge of overseeing the amnesty program. The ICP has indicated that more details on the process will be shared in the coming weeks. The initiative is in line with the UAE’s values of compassion and tolerance.
How Will the Amnesty Process Work?
The UAE will leverage artificial intelligence to simplify the procedures during this residency visa amnesty. From September onwards, individuals with expired visas will have two months to either regularize their status or leave the UAE without incurring fines. The ICP is offering this amnesty as a gesture that reflects the UAE’s core values, giving violators a new opportunity to comply with the law.
Has the UAE Implemented Similar Visa Amnesty Programs Previously?
Yes, the UAE has previously launched visa amnesty programs in 2007, 2013, and 2018, attracting thousands to immigration centers to regularize their status. Another program was introduced in 2020 to aid those stranded in the UAE due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Are the Current UAE Visa Regulations?
Most UAE residents hold a two or three-year visa, which has now been replaced by an electronic visa and the Emirates ID. In April 2022, the UAE Cabinet updated visa regulations, adding new categories for golden and green visas designed for self-employed individuals and business owners. These updated regulations came into effect in September 2022.
What Are the Consequences of Overstaying a UAE Visa?
Overstay fines are fixed at Dh50 ($13.60) per day for both tourists and residents. Residency visa holders have a six-month period to either exit the UAE or adjust their status by securing employment following the expiration or cancellation of their visa. The upcoming amnesty will especially assist those who exceed this six-month grace period.
#uaevisaamnesty #emiratesid #uaevisa
To prepare your visa applications in Dubai, call:
No comments:
Post a Comment