Amnesty seekers at Al Aweer centre in Dubai. GDRFA

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has outlined the detailed procedures for residency and visa violators to adjust their status in the UAE. This initiative, part of an amnesty period that runs until October 30 is aimed at allowing individuals to stay and work legally in the country. The amnesty program provides options for both residency and visa violators, ensuring they can regularize their status without facing harsh penalties. Residency violators, those whose residency permits have expired without a valid work permit, have two primary options. They can either continue working for their current employer, in which case the employer must apply for residency renewal through the ICP or Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) channels, or they can join a new employer. The new employer is required to apply for a fresh work permit through the appropriate channels. For violators who have both expired residency and expired work permits, the ICP has laid out three options. These individuals can either renew their work permit with the current employer, have the employer cancel the work permit, or file a complaint about the worker’s absence. Alternatively, violators can seek employment with a new employer, who must apply for a new work permit on their behalf. ALSO READ: All you need to know about UAE Amnesty The ICP has also addressed cases where workers face complaints of absence filed by their employers. These workers can either have the complaint canceled if the employer wishes to continue the relationship, or they can seek employment with a new employer. If the worker intends to leave the country, an exit permit must be secured through the ICP system. Visitors who have overstayed their visas are also given two options: they can stay in the country by securing employment through a new work permit, or they can leave the UAE by applying for an exit permit. These measures reflect the UAE's commitment to regularizing the status of individuals within the country, ensuring compliance with labor and residency laws while offering flexibility for those wishing to remain. ICA/Expat Media
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