The UAE’s visa amnesty scheme, which began on September 1, has seen thousands of illegal expats regularizing their status or exiting the country. One common question that immigration experts receive is whether violations and fines that occur after September 1 are covered under the amnesty. The Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has clarified that violations committed after September 1 are not covered, and those reported absconding after that date will not benefit from the programme. Additionally, the ICP provided more details about the two-month amnesty scheme, stating that eligible applicants are exempted from various fines and penalties, and those choosing to exit the country will not face a ban.
One important aspect addressed by the ICP is the validity period of the departure permit after fingerprinting, which is 14 days. If the permit expires before the individual departs, previous fines and penalties will automatically be reinstated. Individuals leaving the country are directed to waive any financial claims on their vehicle before departure. The grace period primarily benefits those with expired or invalid residency permits, individuals with expired visas, those listed in administrative work discontinuation reports, and foreign-born individuals whose residency was not registered within four months of birth. The program also offers exemptions from various fees and allows individuals to exit the country without facing a re-entry ban if they resolve their status during the grace period.
It is essential for illegal residents to regularize their status within the specified period of September 1 to October 30 to avoid facing relevant fines and penalties. If individuals fail to do so during this period, all fines and penalties will be applied. The ICP has also clarified that departure permits issued during the amnesty period are only valid for 14 days, and it is crucial for individuals to ensure they depart within this timeframe to avoid facing additional charges. Additionally, traffic and vehicle licensing violations should be settled before leaving the country to waive off any financial claims on the vehicle.
The amnesty scheme allows individuals to benefit from exemptions from various fees related to residency and visa cancellations, work discontinuation, and departure permits. It also enables individuals to exit the country without facing a re-entry ban, provided they resolve their status during the grace period. Taking advantage of the grace period can help individuals avoid facing harsh penalties and bans, providing them with an opportunity to regularize their status and exit the country smoothly. It is crucial for those eligible for the amnesty to understand the guidelines and deadlines to ensure they make the most of this opportunity.
In conclusion, the UAE’s visa amnesty scheme has provided a lifeline for thousands of illegal expats to regularize their status or exit the country without facing severe penalties. By understanding the guidelines and requirements of the program, individuals can take advantage of the grace period to resolve their status and avoid facing bans or fines. It is essential for eligible applicants to act promptly and within the specified timeframe to benefit from the exemptions and advantages offered by the amnesty scheme. The ICP’s clarification on post-amnesty violations and fines provides individuals with a clear understanding of the program’s limitations and requirements, enabling them to make informed decisions about their status in the country.
