Amnesty seekers at Al Aweer centre in Dubai. GDRFA

The ongoing two-month visa amnesty programme, which began on September 1, applies only to individuals currently in the UAE and does not cover absconders or violators who left the country before the start of the amnesty, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) clarified in an advisory on Tuesday (September 17). The authority also emphasised that individuals with criminal deportation orders are not eligible for the amnesty. "Such cases must be resolved through judicial processes before any benefits or exemptions can be applied," the ICP added. Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director-general of the ICP, encouraged violators to take advantage of the amnesty to regularise their status. He emphasised, "The visa amnesty provides a unique chance to resolve legal issues, secure employment, or depart the UAE without facing additional penalties." Al Khaili also gave advice for amnesty applicants. He noted that for infants, a birth certificate and a valid passport or return document are required to settle their status during the amnesty period. For those who choose to leave the UAE, a valid passport or travel documents required to obtain a departure permit. He advised that travel tickets should only be booked after securing the departure permit to ensure a smooth exit. During the first week of the programme, nearly 20,000 violators sought amnesty with 88% of them choosing to stay in the country. Meanwhile, the other percentage decided to leave the country. Last September 12, over 60 Filipino amnesty applicants were repatriated to the Philippines. For overstayers who wish to regularise their residency status and apply for the amnesty, learn the full details here. FLE/Expat Media
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