The UAE has introduced a two-month visa amnesty starting September 1, giving people with expired visas a chance to regularize their status or leave the country without paying fines. Here’s a simple guide on how to apply, where to go, and the resources available to help you.
Who Can Benefit from the Amnesty?
The visa amnesty is open to several groups:
- Residents whose residency visas have expired and are now staying illegally in the UAE.
- Visitors who have overstayed their visit visas.
- Children born in the UAE whose parents didn’t apply for their residency.
- People who fled from their sponsors.
However, those who entered the country illegally, violated visa rules after September 1, or have been deported from the UAE or other GCC countries are not eligible for the amnesty.
How and Where to Apply
You can apply for the amnesty at several centers across the UAE. In Dubai, there are 86 Amer Centers available to assist you, including the GDRFA center in Al Awir, which has extended its services until October 30 for those needing to change their visa status. These centers will help with all services, including issuing exit permits for those with biometric data, such as Emirates ID holders. In Abu Dhabi, you can visit ICP centers in Al Dhafra, Sweihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahamah, or recognized private typing centers.
24/7 Support and Assistance
To ensure smooth processing, the UAE has set up a 24/7 amnesty call center. If you have any questions or need guidance, you can contact the dedicated hotline at 800 5111. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has emphasized that these official centers are fully equipped to handle all necessary services for those wishing to regularize their status or exit the country without facing entry bans.
What Are the Costs?
There’s no charge to apply for the amnesty, change your visa status, or get an exit permit. Any fines you’ve already incurred will be waived. However, after receiving an exit permit, you must leave the country within 14 days to avoid fines being reinstated.
Special Rules for Children
Parents of children born in the UAE without proper residency documentation can apply for an exit permit for their child. If the parents choose to stay in the UAE and change their status, they can also update their child’s status without paying fines.
Why Is This Amnesty Important?
This amnesty is a crucial opportunity for those who have overstayed their visas to avoid penalties and start fresh, whether in the UAE or back in their home country. It also helps the UAE ensure that everyone living in the country is doing so legally.
When Does the Amnesty End?
The amnesty is set to end on October 31. Although similar programs in the past have been extended, it’s advisable to act quickly to take full advantage of this opportunity.
Visa Overstay Rules
As of October 2022, the UAE charges Dh50 ($13.6) per day for overstaying a visa. Residency visa holders have six months after their visa expires or is canceled to either leave the country or change their status. This amnesty extends that grace period, offering those who’ve overstayed a final chance to regularize their situation without facing penalties.
High Demand and Official Guidance
Since the announcement of the amnesty, embassies and consulates have been busy with inquiries, and many have extended their hours to assist people. The government strongly advises seeking information only from official centers to avoid complications. Engaging with unauthorized entities or individuals could lead to further difficulties.
Seeking help from recognized organizations and embassies poses no issues; however, make sure to utilize the reliable resources provided by the UAE government for a smooth and secure process. This visa amnesty is a unique opportunity to resolve your visa issues without penalties—don’t miss out!
INFORMATIVE | 4 Day Workweek: Understanding the purpose and impact