The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has announced a two-month Visa Amnesty UAE 2024, starting on Sunday, September 1.
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This period offers a crucial opportunity for individuals staying illegally in the UAE to rectify their status without facing fines or penalties. The Visa Amnesty UAE 2024 covers all visa types, including expired residency and tourist visas, and even extends to those born without documentation.
UAE Extends Visa Amnesty to December 31 for Overstayers
UAE visa Amnesty 2024 latest news today
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security has extended its visa amnesty program by two more months, now set to end on December 31, 2024. Originally launched on September 1, the initiative provided an opportunity for residents to regularize their visa status without incurring penalties. The initial end date of October 31 saw a surge in applications, with many residents seeking to benefit from the fines waived for overstaying.
This extension aligns with the UAE’s humanitarian values, celebrating the 53rd Union Day and providing relief for violators to either regularize their status or leave the country. The ICP's director general, Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, emphasized that this last extension offers violators an opportunity to amend their residency without re-entry bans, allowing them to secure their rights and protect their families.
UAE Visa Amnesty Registration 2024: Key Information
Program Extension: The UAE’s visa amnesty program has been extended, with a new deadline set for December 31, 2024.
Eligibility: Overstayers in the UAE are eligible to register and regularize their visa status or arrange for departure without penalties.
Benefits:
Waiver of overstay fines for eligible applicants.
Exemption from re-entry bans for those settling their status.
Opportunity to remain legally in the UAE by obtaining employment or residency.
Application Centers:
ICP centers across the UAE.
Authorized typing centers.
Online channels through the official ICP website.
Documents Needed:
Passport or a valid form of identification.
Proof of current visa status or overstay records.
Any additional documents as per the applicant's specific case.
Inspection Intensification: The ICP will increase inspections after the deadline, and violators will face reinstated fines and possible deportation if found.
UAE Visa Amnesty 2024: Your Last Chance to Clear Visa Issues with No Fines or Bans!
The UAE Visa Amnesty 2024 includes several unique provisions designed to facilitate the regularization of residency statuses:
"New Passport Requirement: Just 1 Month Validity Needed for UAE Amnesty"
For the UAE Visa Amnesty 2024, applicants only need a passport with at least one month of validity. This reduced requirement from the usual six months opens the door for more individuals to apply, even if their passports are close to expiring.
"Exit Permits Extended Until December 31 for Easy Departures"
Under the amnesty, exit permits are valid through the entire amnesty period, giving applicants until December 31, 2024, to finalize departure plans without penalty. This extended period adds flexibility and peace of mind for those preparing to leave the UAE.
"Multiple Fines Waived: From Overstays to Expired Work Cards"
The UAE amnesty wipes away multiple fines, including penalties for overstaying, expired identity and establishment cards, and work contract violations. This comprehensive relief enables individuals to resolve a range of issues and start fresh.
"Easier Access to Amnesty Services at 86 Centers Across the UAE"
Applicants can visit any of the 86 Amer centers in Dubai or ICP centers throughout the UAE for amnesty support, making it easy to adjust visa status or obtain exit permits, all without the usual hurdles.
"Absconding Cases Eligible: Resolve Employer Disputes Under Amnesty"
The amnesty program includes absconding cases, offering those reported by employers the chance to regularize their residency status. This feature simplifies legal challenges for individuals with unresolved employment disputes.
"Exit Without a Ban: Return to UAE Anytime"
Individuals exiting the UAE during the amnesty won’t face an entry ban, keeping the door open for future opportunities in the UAE. This provision encourages people to clear their status without worrying about restrictions on re-entry.
What is Amnesty in UAE?
The UAE visa amnesty program is an initiative by the government that allows individuals who have overstayed their visas to regularize their status without facing fines or penalties. This program provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to either adjust their residency status (such as by obtaining a work visa) or leave the country without the risk of re-entry bans or other legal repercussions. The goal of the amnesty program is to support compliance with visa regulations while helping individuals resolve their legal standing in a compassionate and structured manner.
Details of the Amnesty Period
The Visa Amnesty UAE 2024 is a significant lifeline for those living in the UAE without legal residency, providing a chance to either regularize their status or leave the country without incurring overstay fines or exit fees. This initiative, highlighted in the latest news today, underscores the UAE government’s commitment to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to align with legal requirements, offering a fresh start without the burden of financial penalties.
Start Date: The Visa Amnesty UAE 2024 will commence on Sunday, September 1, offering a two-month period during (Extended for 2 more months till December-31, 2024) which individuals staying illegally in the UAE can rectify their status. This period is designed to give ample time for those affected to take the necessary steps to comply with UAE residency laws.
Eligibility: The amnesty is comprehensive, covering all types of visas, including tourist visas, expired residency visas, and even situations where individuals were born without any official documentation. This inclusivity ensures that a wide range of individuals can benefit from the program, whether they have overstayed their visa or never had the proper documentation.
No Fines or Penalties: A key feature of this amnesty is the waiving of fines and exit fees. The ICP has confirmed that individuals who avail themselves of the amnesty will not be subject to overstay fines or any penalties for exiting the country. This provision is particularly beneficial for those who have accumulated significant fines due to overstaying, as it allows them to resolve their status without the financial burden that would otherwise apply.
This amnesty period represents a crucial opportunity for those living in the UAE without legal residency to either regularize their status or leave the country on good terms, free from the worry of fines or legal repercussions.
Benefits of Visa Amnesty UAE 2024 Latest News Today
Regularization of Status:
The amnesty provides an opportunity for illegal residents to regularize their residency status, allowing them to stay in the UAE legally without facing penalties for previous violations.
Option to Leave Without Penalties:
Individuals who choose to leave the country can do so without incurring overstay fines or exit fees. They are also allowed to return at any time with the appropriate visa, ensuring a smooth departure and potential return.
Historical Context:
This is the fourth amnesty programme by the UAE government since 2007, with the last one occurring in 2018. The programme reflects the government's continued efforts to support residents in resolving their legal status.
Facilitated Services for Four Targeted Groups:
The amnesty offers six simplified services aimed at four categories of beneficiaries, enabling them to settle their legal status. This includes allowing family members to adjust their residency status, either to stay or leave the country, without facing financial or legal consequences.
Exemption from Fines and Fees:
The programme provides exemptions from five specific fines and five types of fees, giving individuals the opportunity to resolve their status without financial burdens. Additionally, it allows those who choose to leave to do so without receiving a deportation stamp, avoiding future entry bans.
Extended Working Hours and Enhanced Services:
To accommodate those wishing to benefit from the amnesty, working hours have been extended until 10 PM. Fingerprint centers have been designated across the country to facilitate the process. Those opting to leave will receive a departure permit valid for 14 days, allowing them to exit the country within the given timeframe without any penalties.
This comprehensive amnesty programme is designed to support residents in resolving their legal status in the UAE, offering them a path to regularization or departure without legal or financial repercussions.
Previous Amnesty Programmes in UAE
Historical Overview:
The UAE has a history of implementing amnesty programmes to assist residents living illegally in the country in regularizing their status. These initiatives reflect the government's commitment to maintaining legal compliance while offering leniency to those who may have found themselves in violation of residency laws.
2007 Amnesty:
The first major amnesty programme was launched in 2007, allowing thousands of residents to correct their legal status or leave the country without facing penalties. This initiative marked the beginning of the UAE's approach to providing compassionate solutions for residents in difficult situations.
2012 Amnesty:
In 2012, another amnesty was offered, further demonstrating the UAE's ongoing efforts to support residents in legalizing their stay in the country. This programme provided a similar opportunity for individuals to rectify their status or exit the UAE without incurring fines.
2018 Amnesty:
The most recent amnesty programme before 2024 took place in 2018. Originally set for three months, the programme was extended by two additional months due to its success and the large number of residents who took advantage of the opportunity. The 2018 amnesty allowed individuals to clear their overstay fines, adjust their residency status, or leave the UAE without facing legal repercussions. This programme was particularly notable for its inclusivity and the support provided to residents from various backgrounds.
Government's Continued Support
Commitment to Legalization:
The UAE government has consistently shown its commitment to helping residents regularize their status through these periodic amnesty programmes. These initiatives are designed to foster a stable and legally compliant environment while offering a second chance to those who may have unintentionally violated residency laws.
Humanitarian Approach:
The amnesty programmes reflect the UAE's humanitarian approach to governance, where the focus is on providing residents with the opportunity to correct their situation without facing harsh penalties. This approach ensures that individuals and families can continue to live and work in the UAE legally, contributing to the nation's growth and prosperity.
Ongoing Initiatives:
The 2024 amnesty programme is part of this ongoing effort to support residents and maintain the country's legal integrity. The government's continued support through these amnesties highlights its dedication to upholding a balanced and compassionate approach to residency issues, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live in the UAE with dignity and legal security.
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How to Avail of the Amnesty
1.Determine Eligibility:
First, residents need to confirm their eligibility for the amnesty. This includes those with expired residency visas, individuals who overstayed their visit visas, or those who have any other visa violations.
Eligibility criteria can be checked through the UAE government's official websites or by visiting designated support centers.
2.Gather Required Documents:
Collect all necessary documents, including your passport, Emirates ID (if available), and any relevant visa documents.
If you don’t have certain documents, support centers can assist in retrieving or issuing the necessary paperwork.
3.Visit a Designated Support Center:
Residents should visit one of the designated amnesty support centers located across the UAE. These centers are equipped to handle all aspects of the regularization process.
At the center, submit your documents and complete any required forms. Officers will guide you through the process, including biometric verification if needed.
4.Pay Any Applicable Fees:
While the amnesty provides relief from certain fines and penalties, there may still be administrative fees associated with the regularization process. Ensure that any applicable fees are paid promptly.
Payment options will be available at the centers, and officers can assist with any financial questions.
5.Receive New Residency Status:
Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation of your new legal residency status in the UAE.
You may need to collect a new Emirates ID or residency visa, depending on your situation.
6.Compliance and Follow-Up:
After receiving your new status, ensure that you comply with all UAE residency regulations. Regular follow-up with the authorities may be necessary to maintain your legal standing.
Procedure for Leaving the Country
1.Determine Eligibility for Departure:
If you choose to leave the UAE, confirm that you are eligible for departure under the amnesty programme. This typically includes those with overstayed visas or those who wish to exit without legal repercussions.
2.Visit a Designated Support Center:
Visit one of the designated amnesty centers to initiate the departure process. You will need to bring your passport and any other relevant documentation.
At the center, you’ll receive guidance on the steps to take for a smooth exit from the UAE.
3.Obtain a Departure Permit:
Apply for a departure permit, which is required to leave the country under the amnesty programme. The permit is typically valid for 14 days.
The permit will ensure that you can leave the UAE without incurring fines or penalties, and without receiving a deportation stamp that could affect your ability to return in the future.
4.Arrange Travel Plans:
Once you have obtained your departure permit, you can make travel arrangements. Ensure that your departure is within the permit’s validity period.
The support centers can provide assistance with finding travel options if needed.
5.Exit the Country:
On the day of your departure, ensure that you arrive at the airport or border crossing with all necessary documents, including your departure permit.
After a final check by immigration authorities, you will be allowed to leave the UAE without any legal or financial repercussions.
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Support Centers
Locations: There are designated amnesty support centers across the UAE, including in major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and others. These centers are equipped to handle all aspects of the amnesty process.
Extended Working Hours: To accommodate the increased demand during the amnesty period, these centers will operate with extended hours, typically until 10 PM, ensuring that residents have ample time to complete their applications.
Important Deadlines
Amnesty Start Date: Ensure you are aware of the official start date of the amnesty period, as all applications must be submitted within this timeframe.
Key Deadlines: Specific deadlines will be announced for different processes, such as the final date for submitting regularization requests or the last day to apply for a departure permit. Missing these deadlines may result in the loss of amnesty benefits.
Contact Information
Official Websites: For more information and updates, residents should visit the official websites of the UAE government, such as the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
Helplines: Dedicated helplines will be available to answer any questions or provide assistance with the amnesty process. Contact numbers and email addresses will be provided by the authorities.
Social Media: Follow official social media channels for real-time updates, important announcements, and tips on how to navigate the amnesty process effectively.
This detailed guide ensures that residents can take full advantage of the Visa Amnesty UAE 2024, whether they choose to regularize their status or exit the country without penalties.
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FAQs
How to Apply for Amnesty in UAE in 2024?
To apply for amnesty in the UAE in 2024, follow these steps:
1.Determine Eligibility: Ensure you are eligible for the amnesty, which typically applies to individuals with expired visas, overstayed visas, or other visa violations.
2.Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, such as your passport, Emirates ID (if available), and any visa-related paperwork.
3.Visit a Designated Support Center: Go to one of the designated amnesty support centers across the UAE. These centers are equipped to assist with all aspects of the application process, including biometric verification and submission of documents.
4.Submit Application: At the center, submit your application for regularization or departure under the amnesty programme. Officers will guide you through the process and help you with any required forms.
5.Pay Applicable Fees: While some fines and penalties may be waived, there could be administrative fees that need to be paid. Ensure that all fees are settled to complete the application process.
6.Receive Confirmation: Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation of your new legal status in the UAE or a departure permit if you choose to leave the country.
What Are the Immigration Programs in UAE?
The UAE offers various immigration programs to cater to different needs and residency requirements:
1.Employment Visas: These are issued to individuals who have secured a job in the UAE. The employer acts as the sponsor for the visa.
2.Investor and Entrepreneur Visas: Designed for individuals who wish to invest in the UAE or start their own business. These visas often come with benefits such as longer residency terms and the ability to sponsor family members.
3.Golden Visa: A long-term residency visa available for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and outstanding students. It provides residency for up to 10 years without the need for a local sponsor.
4.Retirement Visa: Available for expatriates aged 55 and above who meet specific financial criteria, allowing them to retire in the UAE.
5.Student Visas: Issued to students who are accepted into UAE educational institutions. The institution typically acts as the sponsor.
6.Family Visas: Residents can sponsor their immediate family members (spouse, children, and parents) under specific conditions, including meeting the minimum salary requirements.
What is the Amnesty Scheme in UAE?
The amnesty scheme in the UAE is a government initiative that allows residents with visa violations, such as overstayed or expired visas, to regularize their status or leave the country without facing penalties. The 2024 amnesty programme offers several key benefits:
1.Regularization of Status: Illegal residents can apply to legalize their stay in the UAE without incurring fines.
2.Departure Without Penalties: Individuals who choose to leave the UAE can do so without paying overstay fines or exit fees, and they can return with a valid visa in the future.
3.Exemptions: The scheme includes exemptions from certain fines and fees, making it easier for residents to resolve their legal status.
4.Extended Support: The UAE government has set up dedicated support centers with extended working hours to assist residents throughout the amnesty period.
Who Can Sponsor Me in UAE?
In the UAE, several categories of individuals and entities can sponsor your visa:
1.Employers: Your employer can sponsor your work visa, provided you have a job offer and meet the necessary qualifications.
2.Family Members: Immediate family members who are UAE residents can sponsor you under certain conditions. For example, a husband can sponsor his wife and children, or an adult child can sponsor their elderly parents.
3.Investors: If you invest in a business or property in the UAE, you can sponsor your own visa as an investor.
4.Educational Institutions: If you are a student, the educational institution where you are enrolled can sponsor your student visa.
5.UAE Nationals: UAE citizens can sponsor domestic workers, nannies, and drivers under specific regulations.
What is the Minimum Salary to Sponsor Parents in the UAE in 2024?
To sponsor your parents in the UAE in 2024, the minimum salary requirement is typically AED 20,000 per month. This amount may vary slightly depending on the emirate and any updates to immigration laws. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of suitable accommodation (such as a larger apartment or villa) and medical insurance for your parents.
Can I Apply for UAE Visa Without a Sponsor?
Yes, you can apply for certain types of UAE visas without a sponsor. These include:
1.Golden Visa: A long-term residency visa for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, and researchers, which does not require a local sponsor.
2.Freelance Visa: Available to individuals who wish to work as freelancers in the UAE. This visa allows you to operate independently without a traditional employer sponsor.
3.Investor Visa: If you invest in a business or property in the UAE, you can apply for an investor visa without the need for a traditional sponsor.
4.Retirement Visa: Expatriates aged 55 and above who meet specific financial criteria can apply for a retirement visa without a sponsor.
How Do I Check My Grace Period After Visa Cancellation?
You can check your grace period after visa cancellation in the UAE through the following methods:
1.Online Portal: Visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website. Log in with your credentials, and you can check your visa status and remaining grace period.
2.Mobile Apps: Use the GDRFA or ICP mobile apps, where you can enter your details to view your grace period after visa cancellation.
3.Visit a Typing Center: You can also visit an authorized typing center in the UAE, where they can check your grace period through the government’s systems.
How Many Days Are Allowed to Stay in the UAE After Visa Cancellation?
In General ( before the announcement): Typically, after visa cancellation in the UAE, you are allowed a 30-day grace period to either regularize your status, apply for a new visa, or exit the country without incurring fines.
After Amnesty Announcement: During the 2024 amnesty, the grace period is extended to 2 months, lasting until the end of October. This gives individuals more time to regularize their status or leave the UAE without penalties.
Who is eligible for the amnesty?
Individuals with expired residency visas, overstayed tourist visas, and other visa violations are eligible to apply for the amnesty.
How long is the amnesty period?
The amnesty period runs for 2 months, ending in October 2024.
What benefits does the amnesty offer?
The amnesty allows residents to regularize their status without incurring fines. Those who choose to leave the country can do so without penalties and may return with the appropriate visa in the future.
How do I apply for the amnesty?
You can apply for the amnesty by visiting one of the designated support centers across the UAE. These centers will assist you with document submission and guide you through the process.
Can I leave the UAE during the amnesty without paying fines?
Yes, during the amnesty period, you can leave the UAE without paying overstay fines or exit fees. You will receive a departure permit that allows you to exit without penalties.
What documents are required to apply for the amnesty?
You will need to provide your passport, Emirates ID (if available), and any relevant visa documents. Support centers can assist if you lack certain documents.
Will my previous visa violations affect my ability to return to the UAE?
No, the amnesty allows you to leave without receiving a deportation stamp, meaning you can return to the UAE with the appropriate visa in the future.
Are there any fees associated with applying for the amnesty?
While many fines and penalties are waived, there may be administrative fees associated with processing your application. These fees must be paid to complete the process.
Where can I get more information about the amnesty?
You can find more information by visiting the official websites of the UAE government, such as the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), or by contacting designated support centers.
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