Since the UAE's visa amnesty scheme commenced on September 1, thousands of illegal expatriates have either regularized their status or left the country. However, a recurring question among immigration experts is whether the amnesty extends to violations and fines incurred after September 1. According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), violations committed post-September 1 are not covered by the scheme. Furthermore, individuals reported as absconding after this date will not benefit from the program. This clarification was provided as the ICP divulged more details about the two-month amnesty initiative. Eligible applicants for the amnesty are exempt from fines related to administrative issues, establishment cards, ID cards, and work contracts. Those opting to leave the country will not face a ban.
Here are some other queries addressed by the ICP:
What if someone is unable to regularize their status within the stipulated timeframe? The amnesty is effective from September 1 to October 30. If illegal residents fail to regularize their status within this window, all applicable fines and penalties will be enforced.
What is the validity period of the departure permit after fingerprinting? Departure permits issued during this period are valid for 14 days. If the permit expires before the individual departs, previous fines and penalties will be reinstated automatically.
How are traffic and vehicle licensing violations managed if someone is leaving the country? They are advised to 'waive the vehicle' before departure. Khaleej Times interprets this as relinquishing any financial claims on the vehicle.
Which categories can benefit from the grace period? The grace period primarily aids four categories: those with expired or invalid residency permits, individuals whose visas have expired, those listed in administrative work discontinuation reports, and foreign-born individuals whose residency was not registered within four months of birth.
What are the additional benefits of the grace period? The grace period offers two more benefits: exemptions from various fees such as those related to residency and visa cancellations, work discontinuation, and departure permits; and allows individuals to exit the country without facing a re-entry ban, provided they resolve their status during the grace period.
