The Philippine missions in the UAE have encouraged their countrymen, known as kababayan, who have concerns about their immigration status, whether they are residents, visitors, or holders of other visa types, to fully utilize the upcoming amnesty program. "Act promptly and express your intention to participate in this program. Procrastinating until the final moments could lead to avoidable issues. Therefore, taking early action is recommended to guarantee a seamless and successful application process," stated the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Philippine Consulate General-Dubai in a joint declaration issued to Khaleej Times on Wednesday.
This statement comes after the Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) conducted a press conference on Wednesday, revealing that there will be no bans or fines imposed on those who take advantage of the two-month amnesty period commencing on Sunday, September 1, and concluding on October 30 this year. The ICP also specified that the amnesty covers all visa types, including tourist and expired residency visas. Individuals choosing to depart the country will not face an entry ban and can re-enter the UAE at any time with the correct visa. Those who have fled or absconded from their sponsors can also apply. Individuals born without documents can also benefit from the amnesty to correct their status. However, those who entered the country illegally are ineligible to apply for the amnesty.
The Philippine missions highlighted that the amnesty initiative "presents a priceless opportunity for our kababayan to legalize their stay in the UAE or to return home without facing legal repercussions." "The amnesty program is a fresh beginning, offering all expatriates the chance to rectify their immigration status. For those unable to find legitimate employment within the UAE, this program enables you to return to the Philippines with dignity and the possibility to re-enter the UAE in the future with the appropriate visa," the Philippine missions emphasized, adding: "(We) wish to convey our profound gratitude to the UAE Government for its ongoing generosity and support of expatriate communities."
The Philippine missions also assured that they "are prepared to aid with consular services, repatriation, and other related inquiries." "Our goal is to ensure that every Filipino in the UAE takes advantage of the opportunity to legalize their status and secure a promising future, whether here in the UAE or back home in the Philippines. For inquiries and assistance, the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi can be contacted at (+971) 50 8137836 and (+971) 50 4438003. PCG-Dubai can be reached at (+971) 4 220 7100; WhatsApp only (+971) 56 417 7558; and via Assistance to Nationals at (+971) 56 501 5756.
