Starting on Sunday, September 1, the two-month UAE visa amnesty program offers a valuable chance for individuals residing illegally in the UAE to either legalize their residency status or depart without fines. The Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) announced on Wednesday that no overstay fines or exit fees will be imposed. Those choosing to leave will not face entry bans and can return with a valid visa. The amnesty extends to all visa types, including tourist and expired residency visas, and also covers those born without documents or those who have absconded from their sponsors. However, it does not apply to those who entered the country illegally.
The UAE emphasizes that this amnesty fosters 'respect for the law, tolerance, compassion, and social cohesion,' allowing violators to rectify their status through straightforward procedures. It grants them the chance to secure their rights, either by safely exiting or by legally living and working in the UAE. Additional details about the amnesty program include its two-month duration beginning September 1, eligibility for various visa violators, and the exclusion of illegal entrants from the amnesty. Notably, there will be no entry bans for those who use the amnesty, and no fines will be levied for overstaying or modifying illegal status.
Application centers vary by emirate; in Dubai, services are available at all Amer centers and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai center in Al Awir. In Abu Dhabi, ICP centers are situated in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqa, and Al Shahama. Service centers operate from 7am to 8pm, including biometric fingerprinting. Applications can also be submitted online 24/7 through ICP electronic and smart channels, with in-person visits only required for biometric purposes.
