The UAE’s visa amnesty programme provides a structured procedure for overstayers to either regularise their residency status or leave the country without facing legal consequences. The process differs slightly depending on whether you plan to stay in the UAE or return to your home country. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you navigate the amnesty process.
1. Determine Your Eligibility
- Ensure that you are eligible for the visa amnesty by confirming your overstay status and the emirate where your residency was issued. The amnesty is available to individuals who have overstayed their visas, regardless of their visa type.
2. Gather Required Documents
- Passport: A valid passport or any other travel document.
- Residency Visa Copy: A copy of your expired residency visa or entry permit.
- Overstay Fines (if applicable): Depending on your situation, you may need to clear any pending fines before proceeding with the application.
3. Visit the Issuing Emirate
- If your residency was issued in an emirate other than Dubai and you plan to leave the UAE, you must visit the immigration authority in the emirate where your residency was initially issued. This is crucial for processing your amnesty application.
- For example, if your residency was issued in Abu Dhabi, you must apply for amnesty through the Abu Dhabi immigration authority.
4. Submit Your Application
- For Those Leaving the UAE:
- Visit the immigration office in the issuing emirate and submit your application for exit clearance.
- You may need to pay any outstanding fines or processing fees.
- Once your application is approved, you will be issued an exit permit, allowing you to leave the UAE without facing legal penalties.
- For Those Staying in the UAE:
- If you wish to remain in Dubai after regularising your status, visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
- Submit the required documents and follow up on amending your status. You may need to provide proof of a new job offer or other supporting documents.
- Once your status is regularised, you will be issued a new residency visa, allowing you to legally stay and work in Dubai.
5. Complete Exit Procedures (If Leaving)
- After receiving your exit permit, make travel arrangements and complete the exit procedures. Ensure all formalities are completed at the airport or land border before departure.
- Keep a copy of the exit permit and any relevant documents for your records.
6. Amend Residency Status (If Staying)
- If you are staying in Dubai, ensure all necessary steps are taken to complete your residency status amendment.
- Once your new residency visa is issued, follow up with your employer or sponsor to finalise your legal stay in the UAE.
7. Final Steps
- Whether leaving or staying, ensure all processes are fully completed. Keep copies of all documents and permits as proof of compliance with the amnesty programme.
Important Notes
- The amnesty programme is time-sensitive. Ensure that you start the process early to avoid complications.
- Overstayers should not wait until the last minute to apply, as processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications.
- If you face any issues during the process, seek assistance from the immigration authorities or legal experts who are familiar with UAE residency laws.
By following these steps, overstayers can take advantage of the UAE’s visa amnesty programme to regularise their status or exit the country without facing penalties.
You can check this also: UAE Announces Two-Month Visa Amnesty Programme
