UAE clarifies eligibility criteria for extended visa amnesty

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has reiterated that individuals violating residency and visa regulations after September 1 will not be eligible for the extended grace period that exempts violators from fines. The grace period, which began in September, will run until December 31, offering violators a final opportunity to regularize their status.

The ICP confirmed that in addition to violators after September 1, three other groups are excluded from the grace period. These include:

1. Individuals reported under administrative cases such as absconding or work abandonment after September 1.

2. Those subject to deportation orders, issued either by the UAE or other GCC countries.

3. Persons who entered the UAE illegally through unauthorized means.

Such violators are required to report to the Department of Violators and Foreigners Affairs for further proceedings.

The authority emphasized that the grace period, initially set to end in October, was extended for two more months until December 31. This extension, coinciding with the UAE’s 53rd Union Day celebrations, underscores the country’s commitment to progressive and humanitarian values.

Eligible individuals can regularize their status without facing fines or bans that would restrict future entry. However, the ICP warned that fines would be reinstated for violations continuing after December 31. The authority also announced plans to intensify inspection campaigns nationwide, in collaboration with government partners, to apprehend violators who fail to take advantage of this window.

The ICP highlighted the significance of the extension as a final chance for violators to resolve their residency issues, while also affirming the country's strict stance against unlawful entry and non-compliance. The grace period reflects the UAE’s balanced approach of upholding legal standards while promoting fairness and humanitarian principles.