UAE visa amnesty: Who's eligible and who's not
Last chance to regularise as final deadline approaches on Dec 31
DUBAI: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has issued a clarification regarding eligibility for the UAE’s extended visa amnesty, which ends on December 31.
This grace period, launched in September 2024, allows individuals to regularise their visa and residency status without facing penalties.
However, the authority has confirmed that several categories of violators will not benefit from this extension.
"The grace period does not cover individuals who violated residency or visa laws after the specified date," stated the authority. “Those affected must refer to the Department of Violators and Foreigners Affairs for further action.”
UAE’s extended visa amnesty
Grace Period Extension: The grace period was extended to December 31, 2024, offering a final opportunity to regularise residency or leave the country without fines. Initially, the amnesty lasted two months from September 1 to October 31, 2024.
Exclusions from the Grace Period:
- Individuals who violated visa or residency laws after September 1 are not eligible.
- Those reported for absconding or work abandonment after the specified date are excluded.
- Individuals who have been subject to deportation orders, whether from the UAE or other GCC countries, are not eligible.
- Those who entered the UAE illegally via unauthorised means are excluded.
Final opportunity!
The ICP has emphasised that the extension until December 31 represents the last opportunity for violators to regularise their status without facing fines or a re-entry ban. Those who fail to act by the deadline will be subject to penalties, and any fines or bans will be reinstated.
The authority also warned that inspection campaigns will be intensified in collaboration with other government bodies to identify violators. Legal actions will follow for anyone apprehended after the grace period ends.
Humanitarian approach
The grace period, initially intended to end in October, was extended in response to public requests. The ICP noted that the extension coincides with the UAE's 53rd Union Day celebrations, reflecting the nation's values of tolerance, mercy, and humanitarian support. The extension provides individuals more time to adjust their residency status, whether by finding employment or departing the country.
Support services
Since its implementation, the grace period has seen increasing participation, particularly among families in illegal residency situations. To support violators, the ICP has worked with both public and private sectors to overcome various obstacles and offer solutions.
- Regularisation Services: Individuals can apply for services such as residency renewal, visa amendments, and exit permits.
- Fingerprinting for Departure: Biometric fingerprinting is required for those leaving the country, with designated centres available across the UAE.
- Exemptions from Fees: The ICP has introduced a service for exemption from identity card late fees, which can be applied online.
Important Procedures for Violators
- Exit Permit: Those wishing to leave the country must apply for an exit permit. Valid for 14 days, it ensures that violators can leave without restrictions, providing them with the opportunity to start anew.
- Residency and Employment Adjustments: Those wishing to remain in the UAE need to renew their work permits or obtain a new employment contract through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
If you're eligible, hurry and regularise your status before the December 31 deadline to avoid penalties and re-entry bans.