The United Arab Emirates announced a visa amnesty scheme in 2024 that can be a lifesaver for those who have overstayed in UAE despite the expiry of their visas. If you are also one of them, this is your chance to get things done before it’s too late.
Now, you can renew your visa status without worrying about the penalties. This amnesty program started on September 1, 2024, and will end on October 31. However, there will be no extension to this 2-month grace period.
So, buckle your sleeves and stick with us till the end to determine how you can benefit from the UAE visa amnesty scheme 2024.
Is there Any Amnesty in the UAE in 2024?
YES, the United Arab Emirates introduced their visa amnesty scheme in 2024. This amnesty scheme is particularly helpful for people whose residence visas have expired or who have overstayed beyond the standard grace period of six months.
It is a 2-month amnesty program that starts on September 1 and will end in October 2024. It means you have 2 months to regularise your visas without any penalty. However, you may leave the country without penalty if you don’t want to renew your Visa.
If you have not done this, you will have to leave the country or might have to bear the per-day penalty for overstaying.
Is there Amnesty for Illegal Immigrants in the UAE?
Luckily, the UAE Amnesty Scheme 2024 also covers illegal immigrants.
If you are the one who entered the UAE illegally or without proper documentation, amnesty provides an option to voluntarily leave the country without facing severe legal penalties.
However, a “no entry” stamp will also be added to such individual’s passports. This will result in a two-year ban on re-entering the UAE. After this period, you may apply to return after meeting all the legal requirements.
Who can Apply for Amnesty 2024?
The UAE Amnesty scheme is valid for various categories of people.
For instance;
- If your visa has expired but you have overstayed, then you still have a chance to leave the country without penalty, or you can even regularize your visa.
- Meanwhile, if you have entered the UAE illegally, you can voluntarily leave the country under the amnesty program without facing severe penalties. A “no entry” ban will be placed for two years.
- If you have any job offers and want to stay in the UAE, you can also use the amnesty scheme to clear absconding cases.
So, if you have overstayed, you can simply pay a fee of 220 AED and get an exit permit. Meanwhile, if you have a job offer, you can simply pay a fee of AED 500 and regularize your visa status to stay legally in the UAE.
Who is not eligible for amnesty?
However, the UAE’s 2024 amnesty scheme covers many issues. However, certain cases are still there when even an amnesty scheme is not acceptable.
A few of them are as follows.
- People who have committed serious crimes, such as theft or violence, will not be eligible for the amnesty. They would still face prosecution under UAE law.
- Individuals with unresolved legal cases or disputes can also not take advantage of the amnesty until their court matters are settled.
- Meanwhile, if you stay in UAE illegally, you can leave under the amnesty. However, they will receive a two-year “no entry” ban. Furthermore, they may not be eligible to stay or re-enter the UAE immediately after the amnesty.
- Last but not least, people who violate visa rules after the announcement of the amnesty will not be eligible for its benefits. The amnesty typically applies to violations that occurred before its announcement.
FAQ:
Can I come back to the UAE after amnesty?
Yes, you can return to the UAE after taking advantage of the amnesty, but the terms of your return depend on your specific situation.
What if I don’t use the amnesty?
If you don’t use the amnesty, you must bear the consequences. It could be a penalty, fine, legal cases or even deportation.
How can I confirm if my visa is eligible for amnesty?
To confirm if your visa is eligible for the amnesty scheme, you can check your visa status through official UAE immigration portals or visit a typing center within the country. You may also contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or other relevant authorities like the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) for further assistance. These authorities can confirm your visa status, clarify any outstanding fines, and guide you to take advantage of the amnesty.
Can I apply for amnesty from outside the UAE?
Yes, you can apply for amnesty from outside the UAE. However, verifying the exact requirements and procedures with the relevant embassy or consulate is essential to meet the specific criteria. They can assist you in processing your amnesty application and help you resolve any visa violations remotely.
Final Verdict:
The UAE’s 2024 Visa Amnesty Scheme is a golden opportunity for those who have overstayed their visas or entered the country illegally to resolve their residency issues without facing fines or legal action.
With a limited two-month grace period from September 1 to October 31, 2024, this initiative offers a chance to either regularize your visa status or exit the country without penalties.
Failing to act during this period could lead to fines, legal consequences, or deportation. If you’re eligible, taking advantage of the scheme before time runs out is crucial.
