It goes without saying that staying in the UAE illegally is a giant ‘No No’. However, a few people still fall between the cracks and think they can get away with it. This is why UAE has generously come out with an ‘Amnesty visa’. This visa is a lifeline for all illegal immigrants to either make their UAE visa status valid or lawfully leave the country without incurring fines for visa overstay. The Amnesty visa is only available until October 30th, so this is your only chance to change your invalid visa status without the risk of deportation. Keep reading to find out all the important details you need to know.
Also read: Moving To Dubai Soon? Here Are 12 Types Of Visas The UAE Offers
Why Should You Apply For The Amnesty Visa?
This amnesty program is open to everyone with expired residency or tourist visas. But it goes beyond that – even those who were born without proper documentation can use this chance to correct their status and stay in the UAE legally. So this visa is the golden opportunity for everyone to regularise their visa statuses or leave the country without facing any repercussions. What makes this visa an even more generous opportunity from the UAE’s side is that you don’t have to pay any overstay fines, exit fees, and bans.
However, it is important to note those who have entered the UAE illegally will not be eligible to claim this visa and will face severe repercussions by UAE immigration.
Also read: UAE Announces Grace Period Extension To Pay Off Visa Fines
What’s Happened So Far?
On September 1, 2024, a fresh start began for expatriates who have been living in the country beyond the expiration of their residency or visit visas. The first day of the two-month initiative offered immediate job opportunities to skilled expats, lifted significant fines, and provided families with much-needed identification after years without proper documents.
Running until October 30, this two-month scheme gives individuals a chance to either regularize their status or exit the country without facing bans, fines, or exit fees. This program is a beacon of hope for many, providing a path towards a brighter and more secure future.
Also read: Travelling In The UAE? Rules For Carrying Cash, Jewellery & Prohibited Items
What Happens If I Leave UAE Or If I Stay In UAE?
If you’re worried that if you choose to leave the country, that means you won’t be able to return ever again – the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has emphasised that even if you choose to leave, you can return to the UAE anytime, as long as you obtain the correct visa. The ICP will provide you with a departure permit and you have a 14-day window to leave the country during this time.
Whereas if you choose to stay in the UAE, you will have to change the status of your visa and make it legal. ICP has issued a channel of resolution for this where, in order to fix your invalid visa status, you must transfer your visa to a new sponsor. From here, ICP will see that you can obtain the correct documents to remain in UAE legally.
Where Can I Apply For The Amnesty Visa?
If you are in Dubai, Amnesty visa services will be provided at Amer Centre across the city and at the centre for immigration violators in Al Awir. Additionally, you may also visit a typing service to help assist you with your application process. However, not all typing centres across Dubai will be able to support this service – it is recommended to call in advance and ask if they provide support for the Amnesty visa process. If you are in Abu Dhabi, Amnesty visa services will be provided at ICP centres in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqam and Al Shahama.
When Was The Last Amnesty Visa Available To The Public?
This will be the fourth amnesty program offered by the UAE since 2007. The most recent one took place in 2018 and was initially set to run for 90 days. However, due to its high demand, the government extended it by an additional two months, giving more people the chance to rectify their residency status or exit without penalties.
So, if right now you are staying in UAE illegally, this Amnesty Visa is quite literally your ‘get out of jail free’ card, and UAE is encouraging all residents and tourists alike to take advantage of this opportunity if it applies to you.
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