The UAE has once again demonstrated its commitment to providing support and relief to residents and visitors with the announcement of the UAE Visa Amnesty 2024. This groundbreaking program, which takes effect today, was launched by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) and will run until October 30, 2024. It offers an opportunity for individuals with expired visas to either regularize their status or leave the UAE without facing penalties.
What is the UAE Visa Amnesty 2024?
The UAE Visa Amnesty 2024 is a government initiative aimed at helping individuals who have overstayed their visas. Whether your visa is a tourist, residency, or any other type, this program allows you to adjust your status to remain in the country legally or leave without the burden of fines or the risk of future entry bans. This initiative is a crucial relief measure, ensuring that people can either continue living and working in the UAE or return to their home countries without legal consequences.
Key Highlights of the Amnesty Program
Duration: The amnesty program is available from today until October 30, 2024.
Eligibility: All visa holders, including those with expired tourist visas, residency visas, and other types of visas, can benefit from this program.
Options Available: Eligible individuals can either:
Adjust their visa status to continue living and working in the UAE legally.
Obtain an exit permit to leave the country without paying fines or facing entry bans.
Adjusting Your Visa Status
For those wishing to stay in the UAE, the amnesty program provides a path to regularize your visa status. This might involve transferring to a new employment visa, renewing your residency, or switching to a different visa type that suits your current situation. The process requires visiting the relevant government centers where your application will be reviewed and processed.
Leaving the UAE: Exit Permit Process
If you decide to leave the UAE under the amnesty program, you must apply for an exit permit. The procedure for obtaining an exit permit varies depending on the type of visa you initially held.
Applying for an Exit Permit (Residency Visa Holders)
If you previously held a residency visa and wish to leave the country, you can apply for an exit permit at any of the designated ICP centers across the UAE. These centers will process your application and ensure that you can depart the country without incurring fines.
Applying for an Exit Permit (Visitor Visa Holders)
For those who entered the UAE on a visitor visa, the process is slightly different. You must visit one of the specific ICP centers listed below to apply for your exit permit:
Al Dhafra ICP Center
Suwaihan ICP Center
Al Maqam ICP Center
Al Shahama ICP Center in Abu Dhabi
Dubai GDRFA Al Awir Center
Amer Center in Dubai
These centers are equipped to handle exit permits for visitor visa holders and will guide you through the process to ensure a smooth departure.
Important Considerations
No Fines or Bans: One of the most significant advantages of the UAE Visa Amnesty 2024 is that individuals can leave the country or regularize their status without paying fines or facing entry bans. This is a unique opportunity to clear any outstanding visa issues.
Document Preparation: Ensure that you have all necessary documents ready, including your passport, expired visa, and any other relevant paperwork, before visiting the ICP centers.
Seek Assistance: If you are unsure about the process or need help with the paperwork, consider consulting a professional service provider.
Conclusion
The UAE Visa Amnesty 2024 is a vital program that offers relief and opportunities for those with expired visas in the UAE. Whether you wish to stay in the country or return home, this amnesty allows you to do so without the fear of fines or legal repercussions. Make sure to take advantage of this initiative before the deadline on October 30, 2024.
For more information or assistance with the amnesty process, visit office Amazon Attestation and Documents Clearing today. We are here to help you for assistance.
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