UAE extends visa amnesty deadline for overstayers

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has extended its visa amnesty programme for two more months, giving overstayers a final chance to regularise their status without penalties.

The current amnesty began on September 1 and was initially set to end on October 31.

The UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security extended the grace period till December 31, giving chance to many seeking to stay legally.

“This is the last opportunity for overstayers to settle their status without facing a ban,” stated Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director of the federal authority, who noted that the initiative has received a strong public response.

Originally launched on September 1, the amnesty aimed to allow overstayers to update their documents or leave the UAE without facing penalties. With a large turnout at immigration centers in recent weeks, the authorities decided to extend the program to accommodate the high volume of applicants.

Officials have stated that overstayers have until the end of December to seek legal employment or finalize their departure arrangements without fines or penalties.

From January 1, 2025, anyone remaining in the UAE without a valid visa will be subject to fines, and enforcement efforts will be increased to identify individuals residing in the country illegally.

Al Khaili noted that the current extension will not be prolonged further, urging overstayers to make use of this final opportunity to avoid financial or legal repercussions in the future.

The amnesty allows for various options, including securing employment or leaving the UAE penalty-free. Lieutenant Colonel Salem bin Ali, director of the Customer Happiness Department at Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, has encouraged those unable to find jobs to exit the UAE, suggesting they could return later under a valid visa if they wish.

In Dubai, the Al Awir immigration center has seen a surge in applications, with officials doubling staff to meet demand. Across Abu Dhabi, amnesty applications are being processed at ICP centers in Al Dhafra, Sweihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahamah, along with several typing centers.

Other emirates are also supporting the initiative through similar services, ensuring that each region’s facilities are equipped to help overstayers navigate the process.