UAE Revises Entry, Residency Regulations: Guidelines on Expat Deportation Scenarios

The UAE has updated its executive regulations regarding the entry and residence of expatriates, specifying six scenarios that can lead to deportation. These updates, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), clarify both judicial and administrative deportation processes, even for individuals holding valid residence permits.

New Deportation Guidelines

The revised regulations outline six key scenarios for deportation, including:

Judicial Deportation: Ordered by a court against individuals convicted of serious crimes or misdemeanours.
Administrative Deportation: Ordered by the ICP for reasons related to public interest, security, or morals.

Four cases fall under the authority of the ICP, while two are classified as administrative deportation cases.

Key Deportation Cases

Illegal Entry: Foreigners caught trying to enter the UAE illegally, without an entry visa or residence permit.
Overstaying Visas: Individuals who let their entry or residence permits expire without renewing them within the prescribed period.
Expired Residence Permits: Those who have their residence permits cancelled and do not leave the UAE within the given timeframe.
No Means of Livelihood: Individuals without apparent means of support.
Public Interest: Deportation required by public interest, security, or morals, even if the individual holds a valid residence permit.

Implementation and Family Members

The regulations permit the ICP to include the deportee's family members in the removal order. Coordination with the Ministry of Interior and the General Command of the Police ensures the deportation process is carried out effectively. Deportation expenses are typically covered by the violator, their guarantor, or their employer.

 Liquidation of Interests

If a deported individual has assets or interests in the UAE requiring liquidation, the ICP may grant up to three months to settle these matters, provided a suitable guarantee is offered.

Returning to the UAE

A previously deported foreigner can only return with special permission from the Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. Those deported judicially can request a review of their deportation order by submitting a petition to the Public Prosecution, which will then be reviewed by the competent committee.

Understanding Deportation in the UAE

Deportation in the UAE is a legal process enforced to maintain public order, security and safety. Judicial deportation follows a court ruling, often linked to criminal activities, while administrative deportation can be initiated by the ICP for broader public interest reasons. The regulations aim to ensure clarity and fairness in handling residency violations, emphasising the importance of adherence to UAE residency laws.

These updates are part of the UAE's continuous efforts to regulate and manage the expatriate population effectively, ensuring the safety and security of its residents.

For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.