Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE began a comprehensive amnesty program on Sunday (September 1), allowing visa violators a two-month grace period to rectify their residency status or leave the country without facing penalties. This initiative, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), aims to promote community tolerance and compassion, and reinforce the principles of respect and adherence to the law.

Amnesty details and eligibility

The amnesty program, running until October 31, offers an opportunity for individuals who have overstayed their visas, including those on tourist visas, expired residency permits, or those who absconded from their sponsors, to either regularize their residency status or depart the UAE without incurring overstay fines, exit fees, or other administrative penalties. The program also extends to foreigners born in the UAE whose parents did not register their residency within four months from the date of birth. However, individuals who entered the UAE illegally and those who overstay their residency visas after September 1, 2024, are not eligible to apply for the amnesty. Deportees from the UAE or GCC will also not got amnesty.

How to apply for UAE amnesty program

Applicants have multiple avenues to apply for the amnesty program: Online application: Overstayers can submit their applications through the ICP website and smart channels, enabling them to complete the process without visiting a service center. However, if the applicant lacks biometric records, they will be notified and required to visit a service center to complete this step. In-person application: For those who prefer or need to apply in person, various service centers are available across the UAE. In Dubai, residents and visitors can apply at any of the 86 Amer Centres or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) center in Al Aweer. In Abu Dhabi, applications can be processed at ICP centers located in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqa, and Al Shahama. These centers are open from 7am to 8pm for biometric fingerprinting. Preparing required documents: Applicants wishing to remain in the UAE must prepare all necessary documents to apply for a residence permit through the ICP’s electronic and smart channels. Those opting to leave the country should prepare their passport and ticket and submit a departure permit request online. The electronic departure permit will be valid for 14 days. If the permit expires during the amnesty period, individuals can still leave the UAE without facing fines. However, if the permit expires after October 31 and the individual has not departed the UAE, the permit will be canceled, previous fines will be reinstated, and any applicable travel bans will be reactivated.

Ensuring a smooth process

The GDRFA has emphasized its readiness to facilitate the amnesty program, ensuring that all facilities and amenities are in place to make the process as smooth as possible. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of GDRFA, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to implementing this initiative to uphold community values and provide support to those wishing to rectify their status. Brigadier Salah Al Qamzi, Assistant Director-General of the Follow-up Sector for Violators and Foreigners in Dubai, urged applicants to obtain information from official sources and avoid rumors. He encouraged them to verify correct information through the Amer Contact Centre via the toll-free number 8005111, which is available around the clock.

Benefits of UAE amnesty program

The amnesty program is designed to help individuals start anew, either by continuing their lives in the UAE legally or by returning to their homeland without the burden of fines or penalties. Those who choose to leave the UAE after changing their residency status will not face an entry ban and can return with a valid visa in the future. The initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to maintaining a secure and lawful environment while offering compassion and a second chance to those who have violated residency laws. It also reinforces the country's reputation as a tolerant and welcoming place for all residents and visitors. ICA/Expat Media
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