The UAE government has launched a two-month visa amnesty program, starting today, September 1. This initiative aims to help overstayers regularize their residency status or return to their home countries without penalties.
What is the UAE Visa Amnesty Program?
The UAE visa amnesty program allows individuals who have overstayed their visas to rectify their status or leave the country without facing fines. This initiative provides an opportunity for those in violation of visa rules to resolve their issues legally and safely.
How to Apply for Amnesty
Indian nationals in the UAE can take advantage of several measures provided by the Consulate General of India in Dubai including adjusting their visa status without incurring fines or facing deportation.
1. Emergency Certificates (ECs)
Overstayers who wish to return to India can obtain Emergency Certificates for free. Facilitation counters are set up at the Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Awir Immigration Centre.
2. Application Process
The facilitation counters will operate from September 2, 2024, from 8 am to 6 pm. Applicants can collect their ECs from the consulate between 2 pm and 4 pm the day after submitting their applications.
Overstayers wishing to return to India:
- Visit the Indian Consulate in Dubai or the Awir Immigration Centre.
- Apply for an Emergency Certificate (EC) free of charge.
- ECs will be issued from September 2, 2024, with working hours from 8 AM to 6 PM.
- Collect ECs the day after submitting applications.
Overstayers seeking to regularize residency status:
- Visit BLS Centres in Dubai or the Northern Emirates.
- Walk-in applicants are welcome without appointments.
- BLS Centres will be open every Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Passportless individuals:
- Visit their respective consulates to request an outpass.
- Apply for a new passport at BLS if wishing to stay in the UAE.
3. Short Validity Passports
Short-validity passports are available through BLS Centres in Dubai and the Northern Emirates for those seeking to regularise their residency. These centres accept walk-in applicants without prior appointments and will be open every Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm throughout the amnesty period.
Benefits of the Amnesty Program
No Penalties: Overstayers can rectify their visa status or return to their home country without paying any fines.
14-Day Grace Period: After receiving the required documentation, applicants will have 14 days to either leave the UAE or continue their stay by providing an offer letter from a company.
Assistance for Those Without Passports: Overstayers without passports can visit their respective consulates to request an outpass, which will be issued within 2-3 working days.
Helplines and Support
To assist Indian nationals, the Consulate General of India in Dubai has set up dedicated helplines:
- Helpline Number: 050-9433111, available from 8 am to 6 pm.
- PBSK Helpline: 800-46342, available 24/7 for further inquiries.
Additional Information
- The amnesty program will run for two months, starting from September 1, 2024.
- Overstayers have 14 days after regularizing their status to either leave the country or obtain an offer letter from a company to continue their stay.
- The UAE government aims to provide a clear and accessible pathway for overstayers.
A Clear Pathway for Overstayers
The amnesty program provides a clear and accessible pathway for overstayers, allowing them to regularize their residency status or return home without legal complications. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting individuals in resolving their visa issues and ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
For more details, Indian nationals are encouraged to contact their consulates or visit the BLS Centres in their respective areas.
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