Introduction
The UAE has launched a two-month visa amnesty program starting from September 1, 2024, providing a golden opportunity for those staying illegally in the country to regularize their residency status or leave without paying fines. This program is a significant relief for many, including those with expired residency visas, tourist visas, or those born without proper documentation.
Overview of the UAE Visa Amnesty Program
The UAE visa amnesty covers all types of visas, including tourist and expired residency visas. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has confirmed that there will be no overstay fines or exit fees for those opting to leave the country during this period. Importantly, those who choose to leave will not face any entry bans, meaning they can return to the UAE anytime with the appropriate visa.
Who Can Apply for Amnesty?
The amnesty program is available to:
- Visa and Residency Violators: Individuals with expired UAE residency visas, including those who absconded from their sponsors, are eligible.
- Tourist Visa Holders: Those overstaying their tourist visas can apply.
- Born Without Documents: Individuals born in the UAE without proper registration are also eligible.
Who is Not Eligible for Amnesty?
Unfortunately, the amnesty does not cover:
- Individuals Who Entered Illegally: Those who entered the UAE without proper documentation are not eligible.
- Violators After September 1, 2024: Anyone who violates visa regulations after this date cannot apply.
- Deportation Cases: Individuals with deportation orders in the UAE or any GCC country are excluded.
- Absconding Cases After September 1, 2024: Those who get an absconding case after this date are also ineligible.
Benefits of the Amnesty Program
The UAE’s amnesty program promotes the values of respect for the law, tolerance, and social cohesion. It offers violators a chance to correct their status through easy and flexible procedures, allowing them to either stay legally or exit the country without penalties.
No Overstay Fines
Applicants will not have to pay fines for overstaying, whether they choose to leave the country or modify their illegal status. This exemption also includes:
- Expired UAE National ID Fines
- Penalties for Not Providing or Renewing Work Contracts
No Exit Fees or Ban Stamps
Violators who choose to leave the UAE will not be charged exit fees or issued a ban stamp. They are free to return to the UAE with a valid visa anytime in the future.
Where to Apply for the UAE Visa Amnesty
Each emirate has designated centers for processing amnesty applications. Here’s where you can apply:
- Dubai: All Amer centers and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Al Awir.
- Abu Dhabi: ICP centers in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahama.
- Other Emirates: ICP centers throughout the UAE, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
Service centers operate from 7 AM to 8 PM. Biometric fingerprinting is required for applicants, which can be done at designated centers.
Online Applications
Applicants can also submit their applications online through the ICP’s electronic and smart channels or approved typing centers. However, they may still need to visit service centers for biometric fingerprinting.
Biometric Fingerprinting and Exit Permits
If your biometric fingerprinting is already on record, you can submit a departure permit application online. For those without a record, you’ll need to visit a designated fingerprinting center. The exit permit, valid for 14 days, will be issued after completing the procedures.
Validity and Extension of Exit Permits
The exit permit is valid for 14 days. If you fail to leave the UAE within this grace period, all previous fines and restrictions will be re-imposed automatically.
Special Cases and Additional Services
Lost Passports
If you’ve lost your passport, you can apply for a travel document through the ICP smart system in Abu Dhabi. In other emirates, you may need to submit an affidavit of loss to the general police command before obtaining a travel document.
Overstaying with Traffic Violations or Expired Vehicles
Violators with traffic fines or expired vehicles must settle these fines before leaving the country under the amnesty program.
Family Members
If the head of a family has an expired visa, family members can either leave the country or adjust their status accordingly. If the father wishes to leave with his family, all family visas under him will be canceled.
ICP and Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (Mohre) Services
During the amnesty, the ICP will handle:
- Issuing departure permits
- Renewing residence visas
- Issuing new visas for work or residence
- Adjusting status on a valid visa
The Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (Mohre) will manage:
- Issuing and renewing work permits
- Cancelling work permits
- Registering work stoppage complaints
Conclusion
The UAE visa amnesty program is a rare opportunity for those who have overstayed or violated their visa terms to rectify their status or exit the country without penalties. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to promoting legal compliance, tolerance, and social cohesion. Whether you’re staying or leaving, the amnesty program provides a pathway to secure your legal standing in the UAE.
For more detailed information and to apply, visit the official ICP website or your nearest service center.
