By ABU Nahyan Immigration And Citizenship

UAE Visa Amnesty 2024: How the Overstay Grace Period Offers a Lifeline to Thousands of Expats

The UAE has announced a significant two-month visa amnesty program starting September 1, 2024, offering a critical opportunity for expatriates with expired visas to regularize their status or leave the country without facing fines. This initiative is a continuation of previous amnesty efforts and reflects the UAE’s commitment to compassion and tolerance. With the grace period set to run until November 1, 2024, this program is poised to impact thousands of individuals living unlawfully in the UAE.

Key Details of the UAE New Visa Amnesty Scheme 2024

Commencement and Duration: The amnesty begins on September 1, 2024, and will last until November 1, 2024. Authorities have confirmed this timeline, though extensions have occurred in past amnesties.
Oversight: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) will oversee the amnesty. They will provide further details on implementation in the coming weeks.
Objectives: The amnesty aims to offer a fresh start to individuals with expired visas, allowing them to either regularize their status or exit the UAE without incurring fines. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s values of compassion and tolerance.

Previous UAE Amnesty Programs

The UAE has implemented similar amnesty programs in 2007, 2013, and 2018. These initiatives have historically provided relief to thousands of expatriates, helping them adjust their residency status or leave the country without penalties. For instance, the 2018 amnesty led to significant public engagement, with long queues at immigration centers as individuals sought to resolve their residency issues.

Process UAE New Visa Amnesty Scheme 2024

Regularization and Exit: Individuals with expired visas have the option to regularize their status or leave the UAE. Those choosing to leave will receive an exit permit valid for 10 days, without facing fines. For those opting to stay and regularize their status, a six-month visa will be issued, allowing time to find employment or resolve other issues.
Grace Period and Penalties: Overstay fines are standardized at Dhs50 ($13.60) per day. The amnesty supports those who remain in the UAE beyond the existing six-month grace period, providing an opportunity to rectify their status without financial penalties.
Requirements: To benefit from the amnesty, individuals must not have any pending legal cases. Those with legal issues will not be eligible for the amnesty. The program also includes provisions for older residents and those previously denied visas due to immigration violations.

Impact and Benefits of UAE New Visa Amnesty Scheme 2024

For Expats: The amnesty provides a crucial lifeline for many expatriates who have overstayed their visas due to job loss, financial difficulties, or other reasons. It allows them to either regularize their status or return to their home countries without facing the burden of accumulated fines.
For the UAE: This program helps the government manage residency and immigration issues effectively, ensuring that individuals living in the country are doing so legally. It also supports the UAE’s broader goals of population management and legal compliance.

How to Apply for UAE New Visa Amnesty Program

Information and Guidance: Individuals can get advice and assistance from Amer centers or by calling 800 5111. In Dubai, video conference services are available on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
Application Process: To regularize their status or apply for an exit permit, individuals should visit designated amnesty centers or contact immigration departments in their emirates.

Past UAE Visa Amnesty Scheme

Conclusion

The UAE’s visa amnesty program for 2024 represents a vital opportunity for expatriates with expired visas to either correct their status or leave the country without penalties. With the program starting on September 1 and running until November 1, it reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to providing support and relief to those affected by residency issues. By offering a clear path for regularization or departure, the amnesty helps thousands of individuals and reinforces the UAE’s values of compassion and tolerance.