Residence visa violators in the country will be offered a fresh start when the amnesty scheme commences on September 1. They will have the opportunity to regularize their status and return home without the burden of fines, but will they encounter a ban? Will they be able to re-enter the UAE? In the coming weeks, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) is anticipated to outline the procedures and formalities associated with the two-month grace period for overstayers.
Immigration advisors and social workers have encouraged illegal residents to seize the amnesty opportunity, emphasizing that once their status is cleared, they will not face any ban. "One will not face a ban and can return to the UAE at any time after regularizing their visa status," immigration advisor Ali Saeed Al Kaabi informed Khaleej Times. "This program by the UAE authorities will enable violators to evade fines and ensure their future return to the country without constraints."
Amnesty-seekers wishing to return to the country are advised to secure a residency visa or an offer letter from a UAE company prior to departure, according to Al Kaabi. "Once an overstayer regularizes his/her visa status, it is advisable to obtain a residency permit before leaving the country. This could facilitate a smoother return process," he explained.
Nissar Thalangara, president of the Indian Association Sharjah, gained further insights about the amnesty scheme following a meeting with Dr Omar al Owais and Maj-Gen Azeem Suwiedi from the ICP. Thalangara stated that the officials confirmed residence visa violators would not face any ban and could return to the UAE at any time. "During the last amnesty by the UAE Government, overstayers faced a ban for a certain period," he recalled.
The social worker also noted that this time, there would be no designated tents or activities at immigration offices. "Everything will be managed at approved typing centres across the UAE, making the process more straightforward and user-friendly compared to the last amnesty," Thalangara said. "Overstayers can approach approved typing centres from September 1 to collect and submit their applications," he added.
To ensure the community is fully informed about the amnesty, the Indian Association Sharjah is launching awareness campaigns. "During the last amnesty, many overstayers were unaware of the initiative and remained stranded in the country for years. Raising awareness is crucial to ensure these individuals can make the most of this opportunity to regularize their status," Thalangara emphasized. The association will also establish a dedicated counter in their office to provide advice on clearing illegal residency. The help desk will operate from 9 am to 6 pm daily throughout the amnesty period.
