Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced changes to the country’s residency visa laws, now allowing mothers to sponsor their children in cases where the father is in violation of residency laws. The new regulation, which is effective immediately, is a significant development for working mothers in the UAE and is aimed at providing stability for families. The amendment allows working mothers with valid residency permits to transfer their children's sponsorship from the father if he is found to be in violation of residency laws. This ensures that children can maintain legal residency without disruption, especially in households where the mother is the primary earner. “This adjustment reflects our commitment to creating a more flexible and secure legal environment for families living in the UAE,” an ICP official said. The authority has emphasized the importance of regularizing residency status before the October 31 deadline for visa violators to apply for amnesty. The ICP has previously announced that after the amnesty period, stricter measures will be enforced, including fines and potential deportation. Families now have a grace period to correct any residency issues, and those wishing to leave the UAE with their family must apply for exit permits to avoid penalties. The ICP clarified that individuals whose residency permits have expired during the grace period can leave the country without incurring fines. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Essential guide to UAE amnesty
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page