UAE Waives Fines for Residence Visa Violators: Grace Period Begins September 1

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a significant reprieve for residence visa violators, providing them with a two-month grace period to regularize their status without incurring fines.

This initiative, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), will commence on September 1, 2024, and aims to offer relief to foreign nationals with expired residence permits.

Grace Period Details

Starting September 1, 2024, all foreign nationals residing in the UAE with expired residence visas will have a two-month window to either update their visa status or leave the country. This grace period, aligned with the Federal Law on the Entry and Residency of Foreigners, will exempt violators from any financial penalties typically imposed for overstaying.

The ICP has committed to implementing all necessary measures to ensure the smooth execution of this initiative, including waiving fines and other legal consequences.

Also Read: UAE Update: ICP Confirms No Changes to Visa Overstay Fines

No Fines, No Hassle

During the amnesty period, affected individuals will be exempt from paying fines imposed under the Federal Law on the Entry and Residency of Foreigners. The ICP is committed to streamlining the process, ensuring a smooth experience for those seeking to rectify their visa status or exit the country.

Understanding UAE Visa Rules

Expatriates need to be aware of the UAE’s residence visa regulations to avoid penalties. Visa validity varies based on the type of visa and sponsorship. Sponsored visas typically range from one to three years, while self-sponsored options can extend up to five or ten years.

Residence visa validity in the UAE depends on the type of visa and the sponsor:

• Sponsored Visas: Valid for 1 to 3 years.
• Self-Sponsored Visas: Valid for up to 5 or 10 years.

Overstaying a visa can result in financial penalties. To address this, the UAE implemented standardized fines in 2023, reducing the daily overstay fee from Dh100 to Dh50 for residents, tourists, and visit visa holders. It is worth mentioning here that residency visa holders must renew their visas before they expire to avoid fines.

Grace Period for Visa Renewals

For expatriates whose residence visas have been cancelled or expired, a grace period of up to six months is provided to initiate the renewal process. This allows individuals sufficient time to arrange the necessary documentation and complete the visa application.

Amnesty Details Forthcoming

The ICP will release further details regarding the procedures and requirements in the coming days, following the announcement of the amnesty period and its benefits. Expatriates should stay informed through official channels for the latest updates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the UAE’s two-month grace period offers a crucial opportunity for residence visa violators to regularize their status or leave the country without penalties. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to a compassionate and balanced immigration policy.