The UAE has extended its visa amnesty programme by two months, providing a renewed opportunity for residents with irregular visa statuses to either regularize their status or exit the country without facing penalties.
Originally set to conclude on October 31, the amnesty period will now extend until December 31, 2024, according to the announcement made by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.
This extension, which commenced on September 1, has already helped thousands of residents clear their visa discrepancies, with the government forgiving millions of dirhams in fines.
The programme has provided relief for overstayers and undocumented residents, allowing them to avoid legal consequences and financial penalties.
Options for Amnesty Participants
Through this initiative, individuals residing illegally in the UAE have two primary options:
Exit Without Penalties: Overstayers who choose to leave the UAE can do so without incurring fines that would typically apply. This is an invaluable opportunity for those who wish to return to their home countries without legal hindrances.
Conversion to Residency Visa: Those who find employment during the amnesty period have the chance to convert their existing visa status into a residency visa. This provision is especially helpful for individuals wanting to stay and work legally in the UAE.
A Step Towards Stability
The amnesty extension highlights the UAE’s continued efforts to support residents and maintain an inclusive, stable environment. The added time allows more individuals to make the necessary arrangements to regularize their visa status or transition smoothly out of the country if they choose.
Authorities have encouraged affected individuals to utilize this amnesty to secure their residency or exit status before the December deadline, ensuring compliance and avoiding potential penalties in the future.
As the December 31 deadline approaches, residents are urged to take advantage of this valuable initiative. For more guidance on how to proceed with the visa amnesty, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security can be contacted through official UAE channels.
I'm Haris Ali. I am resident of United Arab Emirates. I've been working with identification documents in UAE for over 8 years. I've gained valuable experience from working with various government authorities in the region, especially with documents like the Emirates ID.
In my free time, I enjoy playing cricket and exploring new destinations around the world.
