UAE Visa Amnesty Begins: Employment Opportunities Offered And Penalties Waived

The UAE launched a visa forgiveness initiative, providing a two-month grace period from September 1 to October 30. This programme allows individuals to stabilise their visa status or leave the country without penalties.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) stated that the amnesty covers various visa categories, including expired residencies and tourist visas. However, those who entered the country illegally are not eligible.

Indian Embassy's Measures for Expats

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has introduced several measures to help Indian expatriates benefit from this amnesty. Starting September 1, Indian expats can visit any BLS centre in Abu Dhabi without prior appointments.

"Applicants can approach any of the BLS centres in Al Reem, Musaffah and Al Ain as walk-ins to apply for travel documents. No prior appointment is required," the embassy said in a statement.

For those wishing to return to India, an emergency certificate (EC) will be issued. "Applicants will have the option to collect the ECs from the Consular Office, Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi, (101,102, first floor, Guardian Tower, Al Saadah Zone I) between 4 pm and 6 pm within 24 hours of their submission of application."

Support from Philippine Missions

The Philippine Embassy and Consulate in the UAE have also urged their citizens to take advantage of this opportunity. They emphasised that this programme allows expatriates to rectify their immigration status or leave without facing legal consequences.

"The amnesty programme is a fresh start, providing expatriates with the chance to rectify their immigration status. For those unable to secure legitimate employment within the UAE, this program allows you to return to the Philippines with dignity and the option to re-enter the UAE in the future with the appropriate visa," a joint statement by the Philippine missions in the country said.

Job Opportunities During Amnesty

General Obaid Muhair Bin Suroor revealed that within two hours of starting the amnesty for overstaying offenders, 15 recruitment companies were ready to offer jobs. This was disclosed at the settlement centre for overstaying offenders in Al Aweer, Dubai.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri confirmed that collaboration with 15 major private sector companies has resulted in job opportunities for those wishing to rectify their status and remain in the UAE. He noted that procedures for 100 offenders were completed within 30 minutes of starting the amnesty period.

Facilities and Procedures

The settlement centre in Al Awir can accommodate up to 2,000 visitors daily. Additionally, there are 86 Amer centres across Dubai ready to assist individuals with regularising their status. Teams from GDRFA have been assigned to guide visitors through these procedures.

The last amnesty programme occurred in August 2018 and ran until December after a two-month extension. This current initiative aims to provide similar relief and support for those needing it.

Family members whose sponsors have expired residencies can adjust their status without financial or legal penalties. Fingerprint centres will extend operating hours until 10pm to meet demand.

No Financial Penalties

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security reiterated that no financial penalties would be imposed on visa violators during this grace period. This applies to several categories: individuals with expired residence permits or visas and foreign-born individuals whose guardians haven't secured their residence within four months of birth.

This initiative offers a significant opportunity for many residents and tourists in UAE who need assistance with their visa statuses. It provides a path forward without financial burdens or legal repercussions.