Last chance for UAE residency law violators as ‘no leniency after the deadline’
Individuals must rectify their residency status before Oct 31
DUBAI: In a last appeal to residency violators, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security is urging individuals to rectify their residency status before the deadline this Thursday, October 31.
This grace period offers those in violation a final opportunity to amend their status or voluntarily exit the country without facing fines or deportation bans. The deadline marks a significant juncture, beyond which no leniency will be extended.
What the deadline means for violators
Foreign nationals in the UAE who remain in violation of entry and residency laws after October 31 will encounter strict consequences. Starting November 1, all fines imposed before the grace period will be automatically reinstated, and previous travel bans will take effect for those remaining unlawfully.
The Authority has made it clear that inspection and enforcement teams will not show leniency after the grace period ends, and the enforcement teams will carry out comprehensive checks and enforce penalties as mandated by UAE laws.
Why rectifying UAE residency status now is crucial
Those unable to adjust their residency status within the stipulated time are advised to voluntarily exit the country to avoid fines. Colonel Abdullah Atiq, Assistant Director for Investigations at the Violators and Foreigners Follow-up Sector, confirmed that leaving the UAE by the deadline not only spares violators from penalties but also offers them a chance to return in the future when conditions are favourable.
Fines and penalties
From November 1, violators may be subject to severe penalties under a Federal Decree Law amending Labour Relations Regulation. Businesses found to have employed unauthorised workers, recruited employees without actual employment, or misused work permits face fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million. Employers shutting down operations without fulfilling workers’ rights will also be penalised.
Where to go for assistance
In Dubai, "Amer" service centres and the Al Aweer centre are experiencing an influx of individuals seeking to resolve their residency status. The Federal Authority encourages violators to visit these centres immediately to benefit from the grace period. A visit to these centres can facilitate an exit permit and eliminate future re-entry restrictions for those unable to secure legal residency.
What happens after deadline expires
Following the deadline, Dubai authorities, alongside other governmental agencies, will initiate targeted campaigns. Intensive inspections will take place in residential and commercial locations where violators are likely to be found. The Authority will implement rigorous protocols, including entry bans and large-scale enforcement operations to prevent unlawful residency and employment.
From November 1, enforcement will be stringent, with penalties applying uniformly to all individuals and businesses found in violation of entry and residency laws. The Authority’s electronic systems will resume penalties without exception for those failing to comply during the grace period.