The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has announced an extension to its visa amnesty programme, providing an additional two-month window for residency violators to settle their status without incurring fines or a re-entry ban. Initially launched on September 1, 2024, the amnesty was set to conclude by October 31 but has now been extended until December 31, 2024, to allow more people to benefit from the initiative.
Celebrating UAE’s 53rd Union Day with Compassionate Initiatives
The decision to extend the amnesty aligns with the UAE’s celebration of its 53rd Union Day and underscores the humanitarian values upheld by the nation. Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, the ICP’s director general, highlighted that this compassionate extension offers violators the chance to resolve their residency status either by leaving the country or securing a new employment contract.
Al Khaili stated, “The decision to extend the (amnesty) deadline comes in conjunction with the UAE’s celebration of the 53rd Union Day, and as an embodiment of the humanitarian and civilised values of the country.” The extension also answers the appeals of many residents who seek to regularize their status and protect their families.
Rising Demand and a Final Opportunity for Residency Violators
ICP authorities observed a large increase in applications as the initial deadline approached, underscoring the demand for a fair and compassionate resolution. Al Khaili described this extension as the final opportunity for violators to take advantage of the amnesty program, warning that overstayers will face reinstated fines and additional penalties once the grace period ends on December 31, 2024.
With a large turnout of applicants already, the ICP is prepared to intensify inspection campaigns and enforce consequences, including deportations and inclusion on the no-entry list, for individuals who continue to violate residency rules beyond the extended deadline.
How to Apply for the Amnesty Programme
To apply for the amnesty program, overstayers can visit any ICP center across the UAE, approved typing centers, or access the online application channels. The program, which has been extended for the fourth time since 2007, provides amnesty to thousands seeking to remain in the UAE or depart without penalties. This initiative aims to aid residents in overcoming legal obstacles and securing their rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the UAE visa amnesty programme?
The UAE visa amnesty programme is an initiative by the government to allow residency violators to regularize their status without incurring fines or facing a re-entry ban. It offers violators the choice to either obtain an employment contract and stay in the country or leave the UAE without penalties.
2. When was the amnesty programme initially scheduled to end?
The amnesty was originally scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2024, but it has been extended until December 31, 2024.
3. Why was the amnesty period extended?
The extension was granted in celebration of the UAE’s 53rd Union Day and in response to an increase in the number of applicants in the final days of the program. It reflects the UAE’s humanitarian values and aims to support violators in regularizing their status.
4. Is this the first time the UAE has offered a visa amnesty?
No, this is the fourth amnesty programme the UAE government has introduced since 2007. The most recent was in 2018, which was extended by two months to accommodate more residency violators.
5. Where can I apply for the amnesty programme?
You can apply at any ICP center across the UAE, through approved typing centers, or via online channels provided by ICP.
6. What happens if I do not regularize my status before the deadline?
Failure to settle your residency status by December 31, 2024, will result in reinstated fines. Violators could also face additional penalties, such as deportation and inclusion on the UAE’s no-entry list.
7. Can I stay in the UAE if I secure a job during the amnesty period?
Yes, securing a job and an employment contract will allow you to amend your residency and remain in the UAE legally.
8. What are the penalties for overstaying after December 31?
Starting January 1, 2025, fines and legal penalties for overstayers will be enforced, and the ICP will intensify inspection campaigns. Violators could also be subject to deportation and barred from re-entering the UAE.
This amnesty period offers violators a final opportunity to align with UAE’s residency laws, emphasizing compassion while underscoring the importance of compliance.
You should read this also: UAE Amnesty Program | A Step-by-Step Guide
