Starting September 1, the UAE's amnesty program offers overstayers an opportunity to regularize their status. Social workers and the Pakistan Consulate are assisting those without passports by guiding them on how to obtain an outpass to leave the UAE. Mohammed Saleh, the Pakistan Press Consul, explained that overstayers without passports must collect their documents and visit the consulate to get an outpass. Once issued, they can apply for an exit permit at ICP centers across the UAE, approved typing centers, or online through ICP electronic channels. In Dubai, all Amer centers and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai center in Al Awir will provide amnesty services. Saleh emphasized that they must depart within the amnesty's expiry period.
For those without a passport wishing to leave, Abdullah Kamampalam, a social worker in Sharjah, recommends visiting their consulate to request an outpass, which is typically issued within 2-3 working days. Those wanting to stay can also contact the consulate. Indian nationals without a passport can apply for a new one at BLS, while others should follow their consulate's procedures. Kamampalam noted that overstayers can apply for amnesty without fines once they have the necessary details and documents. After amnesty acceptance, they have 14 days to either leave or continue their stay in the UAE by providing a company offer letter.
The UAE aims to offer a straightforward and accessible route for overstayers to regularize their residency status or return home without penalties. The Pakistan Consulate has established a dedicated helpline at +971 56 647 2721 to assist with amnesty-related queries, available even outside regular hours. Social workers strongly advise all overstayers to regularize their status promptly within the amnesty timeframe. Kamampalam warned that failure to do so could lead to severe consequences, stressing the importance of acting quickly to correct residency status and avoid future complications.