The UAE has launched a two-month visa amnesty program starting September 1, offering thousands of illegal expatriates the opportunity to regularize their residency status or exit the country without facing penalties. However, many are asking an important question: Are visa violations committed after September 1 covered under the amnesty scheme? The answer, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), is no. Here's a deeper look into the details surrounding the amnesty and who stands to benefit.
The ICP has clarified that any violations or absconding reports filed after September 1, 2024, are not included under the amnesty. This means that individuals who breach visa rules or are reported absconding after this date will still face fines and penalties. The amnesty is strictly applicable to offenses committed before September 1, providing a limited window for those already in violation of visa regulations to resolve their legal status.
The amnesty is designed to help several categories of individuals, including:
Those with Expired or Invalid Residency Permits: Individuals whose residency permits have lapsed or become invalid can take advantage of the amnesty.
Visa Expiry: People whose visas have expired and who have overstayed are eligible to apply.
Administrative Work Discontinuation Reports: Those listed in reports of discontinued work can also benefit.
Newborns with Unregistered Residency: Foreign-born babies whose residency was not registered within the first four months of birth are also included.
There are several significant advantages for those who qualify for the amnesty, including:
Exemption from Various Fees: Eligible applicants are exempted from fines related to residency, work contract, ID card, and administrative penalties.
No Re-entry Ban: Those who choose to exit the UAE during the amnesty period will not face a re-entry ban, allowing for future return, provided they resolve their visa status before leaving.
Departure Permit Validity: Once individuals apply for the amnesty, they will receive a departure permit valid for 14 days. If they fail to leave the country within that time frame, previous fines and penalties will be reinstated.
The amnesty program runs until October 30, 2024. Those who do not rectify their status by this deadline will be subject to fines and penalties associated with their violations. It is crucial for individuals to act promptly, as the window of opportunity is brief, and failure to comply will result in severe consequences.
For those planning to leave the UAE under the amnesty, it is essential to resolve any outstanding traffic violations and vehicle licensing issues. The ICP advises individuals to "waive the vehicle" before departure, meaning they must settle any financial claims or liabilities tied to their vehicles before exiting the country.
The visa amnesty scheme is not only a lifeline for individuals but also for businesses and families dealing with employees or family members with visa-related challenges. By resolving these issues during the amnesty, companies can avoid future penalties and ensure that their workforce is fully compliant with UAE laws.
The UAE’s visa amnesty provides a unique opportunity for those with irregular visa statuses to come forward and rectify their legal standing without the burden of heavy fines or the risk of being banned from re-entering the country. However, time is of the essence, and the grace period ends on October 30, 2024. After this date, those who fail to act will face renewed penalties and possible legal consequences.Stay updated with Plan My Firm, your trusted business setup consultancy. We provide expert guidance on visa compliance, residency services, and navigating the UAE legal process. Contact us to discover how we can support your business needs.