Dubai, UAE — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a two-month extension to its visa amnesty programme, allowing residents with visa violations an additional chance to regularize their status. Initially set to end on October 31, the programme will now run until December 31, 2024. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) made this announcement on Thursday, citing a surge in demand and alignment with the upcoming 53rd Union Day celebrations.
Launched on September 1, the programme has already provided relief to thousands of residents by waiving millions in fines for those who overstayed their visas. The extension offers additional time for violators to either obtain a valid employment contract and adjust their residency status or prepare to leave the country without facing penalties or re-entry bans.
Humanitarian and Cultural Values
According to Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of ICP, the decision to extend the programme underscores the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian and inclusive values. He explained that the government responded to the appeals of violators who have expressed a desire to settle their legal status.
“The decision to extend the amnesty deadline coincides with the UAE’s celebration of Union Day. This initiative embodies the humanitarian and civilized values of our nation,” said Maj. Gen. Al Khaili. “It reflects our commitment to help individuals who wish to settle their status, secure their rights, and protect their families,” he added.
High Turnout and Last Chance for Amnesty
As the original deadline approached, the ICP witnessed an increase in the number of applications, with many individuals taking advantage of this opportunity to rectify their residency status. This amnesty extension marks the last chance for violators to resolve their visa issues without incurring fines or facing entry restrictions. Maj. Gen. Al Khaili noted, “Fines will be reinstated for those who continue to violate residency rules after the extended deadline.”
He further added that the ICP will intensify inspection efforts following the amnesty deadline, emphasizing that future violators will face stricter consequences, including deportation and no-entry listings.
Previous Amnesty Programmes and Application Process
The UAE has launched four visa amnesty programmes since 2007, providing numerous residents with opportunities to rectify their residency status. A similar programme in 2018 initially ran for 90 days and was later extended to December 31 of that year due to high demand.
To participate in the current amnesty, overstayers can apply at any ICP center across the UAE, approved typing centers, or online channels. The programme is expected to alleviate significant burdens for violators and help them overcome challenges in obtaining legal status, thus reinforcing the UAE’s support for all residents aiming to build secure lives within the country.
This extended visa amnesty not only benefits residents but also reflects the UAE’s commitment to building a compassionate society where legal order and humanitarian values work together.
