No Visa Amnesty Extension with Stricter Measures Ahead
If you're in the UAE and hoping for an extension on the visa amnesty program, you're out of luck. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) announced on Monday that the amnesty program will not be extended beyond October 31. That means you've got just a few weeks left to sort out your visa situation before stricter measures kick in.
What Happens After October 31?
Once the amnesty program ends, violators can expect immediate repercussions. The ICP has made it clear that deportations will follow, and those who don’t comply will be placed on a no-entry list. This means that if you're found to be in violation of your visa terms after the deadline, you may not be able to enter the UAE in the future.
Intensive Inspections Ahead
As we approach November 1, expect intensive inspection campaigns to ramp up. Authorities will be conducting checks in residential areas and companies where they believe visa violators may be located. These inspections are designed to apprehend individuals who have not adjusted their status and enforce penalties such as fines or deportation.
Maj-Gen Sultan Al Nuaimi, the ICP director-general, emphasized that this two-month visa amnesty, which started on September 1, is the final opportunity for individuals to get their visa situations in order. He stated, “There will be no leniency, and there will be no court proceedings.”
What Has Happened So Far?
The response to the amnesty program has been positive, with many individuals taking the chance to adjust their status. Al Nuaimi noted that an overwhelming number of cases have been received, and many people have successfully regularized their situations during this period.
In fact, in September alone, Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs reported that nearly 20,000 individuals had their statuses regularized. Additionally, 7,401 exit permits were issued to those wishing to return to their home countries.
Take Action Now
If you have received an exit permit, it’s crucial to act quickly and leave the country before the October 31 deadline. Authorities are closely monitoring those who remain and will impose fines and deportation for non-compliance. If you fail to settle your fines, you could face a ban on re-entering the UAE.
For those facing unique circumstances, some airlines are offering assistance, including ticket discounts and even free tickets, to help individuals return home.