The UAE Two-Month Amnesty Program provides an opportunity for individuals who are overstaying or violating visa rules to rectify their status without penalties. This initiative is a chance to renew, modify, or exit the country legally, enabling residents to avoid fines or deportation.
Here’s everything you need to know about the program, including its step-by-step procedure, benefits, who should avail it, important dates, departments involved, and amnesty centers across the UAE.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Availing Amnesty
1. Confirm Eligibility
Before proceeding, verify if you are eligible for amnesty. Overstaying individuals or those with visa-related violations qualify to benefit from the program. Contact the relevant immigration office or check the official government website for more information.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Gather the necessary documentation, including:
- Passport
- Previous visa documents
- A recent photograph
- Emirates ID (if available)
- Additional documents (if requested by authorities)
3. Visit the Nearest Amnesty Center
Head to any of the designated amnesty centers across the UAE. Ensure that you visit during the working hours to avoid delays. No appointment is necessary, but it’s advised to go early.
4. Submit Your Application
At the center, submit your application to avail the amnesty. Immigration officials will guide you through the process, ensuring your application is complete. The options include:
- Renewing or modifying the current visa
- Applying for a new visa
- Canceling the visa and preparing to exit the UAE
5. Pay Necessary Fees (if applicable)
Depending on the option you choose (modifying or renewing the visa), a fee may be applicable. However, overstaying fines are waived under this program.
6. Receive New Visa or Exit Permit
After processing, if you’ve applied for visa renewal or modification, you will receive your new visa. If you’ve chosen to leave the country, you will be issued an exit permit, allowing you to leave without penalties.
7. Exit the Country (if applicable)
For those choosing to leave the UAE, you must exit within the timeframe provided in the exit permit to avoid further legal issues.
Benefits of the Amnesty Program
- Penalty Waiver: Overstaying fines, which can accumulate rapidly, are fully waived.
- Legal Exit: Individuals can leave the country without any legal repercussions or being blacklisted.
- Visa Modifications: Those wishing to stay in the UAE can modify their visas or get new sponsorship without being penalized.
- No Deportation: The amnesty allows people to exit voluntarily, avoiding forced deportation.
- Opportunity for Fresh Start: Individuals can re-enter the UAE on new legal grounds if they leave during amnesty and later meet re-entry requirements.
Who Should Avail the Amnesty?
- Overstayers: Individuals whose visas have expired but who are still in the UAE.
- Visa Violators: People who have violated the terms of their visas, such as working under a tourist visa or staying beyond the grace period.
- Job Seekers: Workers who have lost their jobs and overstayed their employment visa.
- Illegal Residents: Those living in the UAE without a valid visa.
Last Date for the Amnesty Program
The current amnesty program runs for two months, starting from the announcement date which is September 1st 2024. It is crucial to confirm the last date through official channels or immigration centers to avoid missing the opportunity.
Departments Involved
- Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA): Oversees visa-related services and processes for overstayers.
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA): Processes visa modifications and renewals in Dubai.
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): Assists with job-seeking services and handles labor-related concerns.
Amnesty Centers Locations Across UAE
Here are the major centers where you can apply for amnesty:
1. Abu Dhabi
- Al Shahama Amnesty Center
- Musaffah Immigration Office
2. Dubai
- Al Aweer Immigration Center
- Amer Service Centers
3. Sharjah
- Sharjah Immigration Center
- Tasheel Service Centers
4. Ajman
- Ajman Immigration Office
5. Ras Al Khaimah
- Ras Al Khaimah Immigration Office
6. Fujairah
- Fujairah Immigration Center
You can visit these centers without prior appointments, but it is advisable to carry all your required documents to avoid any delays.
FAQs about the UAE Two-Month Amnesty Program
1. Do I need to pay fines during the amnesty?
No, fines for overstaying or visa violations are completely waived during the amnesty period.
2. Can I apply for a new job while using the amnesty program?
Yes, overstayers can modify their visa status, allowing them to search for new employment legally in the UAE.
3. How long will it take to process my application?
Processing times vary but usually take a few days. You will be informed of the timeframe during your visit to the amnesty center.
4. What happens if I miss the last date for amnesty?
Missing the amnesty deadline could result in fines, legal action, or even deportation. Ensure you act within the two-month window to avoid penalties.
5. Can I return to the UAE after leaving under the amnesty program?
Yes, once you leave legally, you can return to the UAE on a new visa if all entry requirements are met.
Conclusion
The UAE Two-Month Amnesty Program offers a lifeline to those overstaying or violating visa rules, providing them with a way to rectify their status legally and without financial burden. If you’re an overstayer or visa violator, it’s crucial to act promptly to take full advantage of this opportunity. Visit the nearest amnesty center, rectify your situation, and make the most of the benefits offered during this period.
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