An opportunity for those with expired visas to hit the reset button…
If you’re living in the UAE with an expired tourist or residency visa and are stressed about accumulating fines or what to do next, the UAE’s overstay amnesty is here to help. And if you missed the October 31 deadline, you’ll be happy to hear it’s been extended until December 31, according to Gulf News.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has announced an overstay amnesty. This comes on the heels of their successful five-month regularization project in 2018, which helped over 105,000 people benefit from services like waived fines, lifted travel bans, and the issuance of departure permits.
UAE Visa Amnesty 2024
This new two-month amnesty will run from September 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. During this four-month grace period, overstayers can “regularize their status” without facing any penalties.
Will I be eligible?
The ICP has announced that the amnesty will cover several visa categories, including expired residency and tourist visas, as well as undocumented individuals. However, those who have entered the country illegally won’t be eligible for the amnesty benefits.
What are my options?
There are essentially two options for resolution: you can either transfer your visa to a new sponsor and stay in the country legally, or leave without facing penalties or a ‘no-entry’ stamp. On August 28, the ICP provided an update with more details on how the amnesty will work and what types of violations will be covered under its guidelines.
How much will the service cost?
Nothing! The service will be completely free.
How do I begin the application for the amnesty?
- A report in The National stated that:
- “In Abu Dhabi, people can apply at ICP centers in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahama.”
- “In Dubai, amnesty services will be available at the Amer service centers and the center for immigration violators in Al Awir.”
- Certain typing centers will also be available to help you with your application.
UPdates
The ICP’s update has clarified that dependents on expired visas will also have the chance to update their status. Those planning to leave the country will receive a departure permit with a 14-day window, and there will be extended hours at Fingerprint Centers.
لهيئة الاتحادية للهوية والجنسية والجمارك وأمن المنافذ تعلن عن بدء تنفيذ مهلة تسوية أوضاع المخالفين رسمياً اعتباراً من يوم الأحد المقبل الموافق أول سبتمبر 2024 وحتى نهاية 30 أكتوبر 2024 pic.twitter.com/URxLCdABtS
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) August 28, 2024
