At the Al Aweer amnesty center in Dubai. GDRFA

Visa violations and fines incurred after September 1, 2024 will not be covered by the UAE’s ongoing amnesty scheme, authorities have reiterated. Thousands of residents have already taken advantage of the scheme to regularize their status or leave the country without facing penalties. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has clarified that the UAE’s ongoing amnesty program, which began on September 1, 2024, does not cover visa violations or fines committed after that date. The ICP emphasized that absconding reports or violations committed after September 1 are not eligible under the program. The amnesty, which runs until October 30, 2024, offers leniency for individuals who have overstayed their visas, those with expired residency permits, and those who were listed as absconding from their work or sponsors. Applicants who regularize their status during the amnesty period will be exempt from administrative fines, establishment card fees, and work contract-related penalties. For those opting to leave the country, no re-entry ban will be imposed, provided they comply with the process. For those unable to resolve their visa status by October 30, all fines and penalties will be reinstated. Departure permits issued during the amnesty are valid for 14 days, but if they expire before departure, the previous fines will automatically apply. The ICP has also advised individuals leaving the UAE to settle any traffic or vehicle-related fines before departure. The amnesty primarily benefits four groups: those with expired residency permits, individuals with lapsed visas, foreign-born children not registered within four months, and individuals listed in work discontinuation reports. ICA/Expat Media
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