Procedure, Eligibility, and Key Exclusions for Legalizing Residency or Exit Without Penalties
Pavitra Shetty
Published on December 18, 2024, 13:44:49
The UAE visa amnesty program offers a pathway for individuals with expired visas to rectify their legal status or leave the country without penalties. The initiative, which was extended until December 31, 2024, aims to assist overstayers while promoting compliance with the country’s residency laws.
The amnesty program is a government initiative designed to allow individuals residing in the UAE on expired visas to either legalize their stay or leave the country without incurring fines. The program provides options for changing residency status or obtaining exit permits for those choosing to leave. It also offers humanitarian support, including assistance with documentation and, in some cases, financial aid for repatriation.
The program primarily targets individuals and families who have overstayed their visas, including:
Expired Visit Visa Holders: Those whose visit visas have lapsed and have remained in the country beyond their permitted duration.
Residency Visa Holders: Individuals whose residency visas have expired and have not been renewed.
Dependent Families: Parents with children who lack proper documentation can apply to rectify their family’s residency status, ensuring access to essential services like healthcare and education.
Applicants who qualify for the amnesty can change their residency status, secure employment, or leave the UAE with overstay fines waived.
The amnesty program excludes certain categories of individuals, including:
Criminal Offenders: Individuals involved in criminal cases or those with pending legal charges or court cases.
National Security Concerns: Persons flagged as security threats are not eligible.
Non-Compliant Applicants: Those who fail to provide the required documentation or intentionally misuse the program.
These exclusions ensure that the amnesty remains focused on individuals with genuine residency or visa overstay issues.
Amnesty applications can be submitted at designated centers across the UAE:
Abu Dhabi: ICP centers in Al Dhafra, Sweihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahamah, as well as recognized private typing centers.
Dubai: Amer service centers and the immigration violators’ center in Al Awir.
Other Emirates: ICP centers and authorized typing centers.
Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, such as passports, visa copies, and other supporting paperwork.
Visit the Centers: Go to the nearest application center. Typing centers can assist in completing forms and submitting applications.
Processing: Applications typically take at least 48 hours to process.
Finalize Status: Applicants can either update their visa status or arrange for exit permits and travel.
The amnesty program concludes on December 31, 2024. Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted, and overstayers will incur a daily fine of Dh50 ($13.6). There are no planned extensions, so applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays.
This initiative is a unique opportunity for those eligible to resolve their residency issues and secure a lawful status, offering a fresh start for many individuals and families in the UAE.
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