Due to overwhelming demand, the UAE has extended its visa amnesty period to December 31, allowing overstayers more time to resolve their visa status without penalties.
Why the Extension? The extension was granted after officials saw a surge in the number of individuals seeking to regularize their stay. Maj Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, emphasized that this will be the final opportunity for overstayers to rectify their situation penalty-free. “After December 31, fines will automatically be applied starting January 1, 2025, and extensive checks will follow for those without valid visas,” he stated. The initiative aims to give violators a fair chance to either obtain a legal work contract or safely exit the UAE without incurring fines.
Amnesty Details Initially launched in September for a two-month period, the amnesty offers individuals whose visas have expired the chance to either update their documentation or leave the UAE with any overstay fees waived. Immigration centers across the UAE saw a rush of people approaching the previously set deadline, with centers like Dubai’s Al Awir doubling their immigration officers to meet demand. With the extended deadline, the government’s message remains consistent—those unable to secure employment should consider returning to their home country with the option to return to the UAE in the future.
Lt Col Salem bin Ali, Director of the Customer Happiness Department at Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, reinforced this by saying, “If you cannot find a job, please leave the country. You’re welcome back anytime.”
A Success Story of Second Chances The amnesty has brought positive outcomes for individuals like Abhijeet Ahire, an Indian software engineer who had been living in the UAE illegally for over two years after falling victim to a job scam. Duped by a fraudulent offer for a position with Emirates airline, he was left with significant debt and overstayed his visa. Planning to exit, Mr. Ahire instead secured a legitimate job offer from LuLu Exchange Group at Dubai’s Al Awir Centre, turning his misfortune into a new beginning in the UAE.
Where to Apply for Visa Amnesty Those looking to apply for amnesty can do so at designated centers across the UAE:
- Abu Dhabi: ICP centers in Al Dhafra, Sweihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahamah, as well as approved private typing centers.
- Dubai: Amer service centers and the immigration violators’ center in Al Awir.
- Other Emirates: ICP centers are available for amnesty applications.
The Importance of Visa Amnesty Visa amnesties provide relief to those with expired documentation, often hesitant to come forward due to potential fines or legal consequences. By offering amnesty, the government ensures compliance and enables people to remain in the UAE legally, a vital step amid rapid population growth. For many, this initiative represents a fresh start—either through regularizing their status in the UAE or by returning to their home countries with dignity and without penalties.
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