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The UAE has introduced a new regulation requiring those who have overstayed their visas and wish to regularize their residency status to present a valid work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This announcement was made by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, and came as thousands of individuals sought to avail of the ongoing amnesty program. Lt. Gen. Al Marri emphasized that the work permit is now a critical component of the regularization process for overstaying expats as part of the amnesty program. "Overstaying expats who wish to continue residing in the UAE must present a valid MoHRE work permit as part of their application to legalize their residency status. A company’s offer letter is not an authentic document," Al Marri clarified, stressing that the work permit serves as the official verification of an individual’s employment status within the UAE. This requirement aligns with the ongoing amnesty program, which offers overstayers an opportunity to rectify their legal status without facing penalties or deportation or entry ban. The program has been a lifeline for thousands of residents who have inadvertently found themselves on the wrong side of the law due to visa expirations or other administrative oversights. The introduction of the work permit as a mandatory document ensures that only those who are gainfully employed and contributing to the UAE economy are permitted to stay. ALSO READ: All you need to know about UAE amnesty Al Marri highlighted the importance of the work permit in the broader context of the UAE’s immigration and labor policies. "The work permit serves as verification that the applicant has a lawful job in the UAE, which is an important factor in allowing them to stay," he stated. "Our goal is to ensure that the process is smooth and that individuals can legally continue their lives in the UAE." For expats looking to take advantage of the amnesty program, preparation is key. Authorities have advised overstayers to gather all necessary documents, including the work permit, before approaching the relevant centers to regularize their status. This proactive approach will help avoid delays and ensure a smoother process for all involved. “We encourage all those who are eligible to take advantage of this amnesty program. Our goal is to provide a pathway for people to stay in the UAE legally, and we are here to support them in this process,” Al Marri reiterated. The emphasis on compliance with the new regulations highlights the UAE’s commitment to maintaining a robust and lawful expatriate community. The amnesty program has already seen a significant uptake, with thousands of individuals stepping forward to legalize their residency status. This initiative not only benefits the individuals involved but also supports the UAE’s economic stability by ensuring that all residents are legally employed. For those currently overstaying in the UAE, the message is clear: securing a valid work permit is now a non-negotiable step in the process of legalizing their residency. By complying with these new regulations, expatriates can continue to enjoy the many opportunities that the UAE offers while contributing to its vibrant economy. ICA/Expat Media
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