UAE Visa Amnesty: The United Arab Emirates has introduced a significant change to its visa system, offering a two-month grace period for individuals who have violated visa regulations. Effective September 1st, those with expired visas will no longer face immediate fines or deportation.
Key Points of the UAE Visa Amnesty
- Grace Period: Individuals in violation of the UAE visa system will be granted two months to regularize their status.
- No Fines or Exit Fees: During the UAE Visa Amnesty period, there will be no overstay fines or exit fees imposed.
- Travel Ban Relief: Regularizing your status during the UAE Visa Amnesty will exempt you from travel bans, allowing for future returns to the UAE.
Eligibility
The UAE Visa Amnesty applies to all types of visas, including tourist and residency visas. Even those born without documents can benefit from this opportunity to rectify their status.
Government’s Compassionate Gesture
The UAE government introduced the grace period as a gesture of compassion, recognizing the challenges faced by individuals who may have inadvertently violated visa rules. This move reflects the country’s values of tolerance and understanding.
Understanding Visa Overstays
The standard fine for visa overstay in the UAE is Dhs50 per day. Previously, the fine was Dhs100 per day. This standardized penalty aims to ensure consistency and fairness.
Types of UAE Residence Visas
The validity of a residence visa varies depending on the type and sponsor. Options include one, two, three, five, or ten-year visas. Shorter-term visas typically require a sponsor, while longer-term visas allow for self-sponsorship.
Requirements for Residence Visa Applications
To apply for a residence visa, individuals aged 18 and above must provide:
- Medical fitness certificate
- Recent colored personal photo
- Valid passport copy
- Valid sponsor’s passport with residence permit
- Attested birth certificate (for children)
- Entry permit
- Emirates ID application receipt
- Housing lease contract or proof of ownership
- Medical insurance or health card
- Required documents for newborns or women with specific circumstances
Applying for a Residence Visa
You can apply for a residence visa online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. For those seeking longer-term residence, explore options like the golden, blue, or green residence visas.
Take Advantage of the UAE Visa Amnesty
The UAE Visa Amnesty offers a valuable opportunity for individuals to rectify their visa status without facing harsh penalties. If your visa has expired, take advantage of this grace period to regularize your situation and avoid future complications.