On Sunday, numerous undocumented residents in the UAE found themselves filled with anticipation for a fresh start, courtesy of the UAE's visa amnesty program that commenced on September 1. This two-month initiative, slated to conclude on October 30, offers violators the opportunity to either legalize their status or depart the country without facing bans, fines, or exit charges.
Khaleej Times has deployed journalists to various points throughout the UAE to provide real-time updates from the field. Who are these individuals being granted a new lease on life? What are their personal narratives? How is the administration handling these operations? Stay tuned for more details.
The validity of the departure permit is set for 14 days. If departure is not completed within this grace period or after permits expire outside the designated amnesty period, previous fines and restrictions will be re-imposed automatically.
Applicants for amnesty seeking a residence or travel permit can now finalize their applications online via the Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) website and digital platforms. More information can be found here.
As dawn broke on September 1, gatherings started to form at multiple locations across the UAE on the inaugural day of the visa amnesty program. This measure, designed to provide relief to those with expired or illegal residency status, attracted considerable interest. Many individuals arrived early, eager to address their visa concerns and secure their future in the country.
At 7am, Pakistani expatriate Hamza Gul, who had been camping outside the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) - Dubai center in Al Awir to take advantage of the amnesty, expressed his hope to be free. Gul is one of hundreds of expats with expired documents awaiting the chance to either rectify their status or leave the country.
For Gul, September 1 marks not just the beginning of a new day but a new chapter in his life, finally offering him the opportunity to legalize his status and return home. Gul shared his experiences, detailing how he has been staying with friends or sleeping on the streets when necessary.
The amnesty program encompasses all types of visas, including tourist and expired residency visas. Individuals born without documentation can also correct their status. Those who fled or absconded from their sponsors are eligible to apply. However, those who entered the country illegally are ineligible for amnesty.
It is important to note that the grace period does not extend to three categories: those who breach residency or visa rules after September 1, 2024; individuals reported for absconding after September 1, 2024; and those under deportation orders from either the UAE or GCC countries.
