The UAE is offering a two-month amnesty period starting Sunday, September 1, allowing individuals with various visa types, including tourist and expired residency visas, to rectify their status or leave the country without facing any fines or bans, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
During a press conference held on Wednesday, the ICP emphasized that the amnesty covers all visa categories, providing a unique opportunity for those residing illegally in the UAE to either regularize their residency status or depart the country without penalties. The ICP also highlighted that even individuals born without documents are eligible to benefit from this program.
“This is the best opportunity for those who are staying illegally in the UAE to either regularise their residency status or leave the country without fines,” the ICP stated in a Khaleej Times report. Additionally, those who choose to leave the UAE during the amnesty period can return anytime with the appropriate visa, as no overstay fines or exit fees will be imposed.
This marks the fourth amnesty program by the UAE government since 2007, with the last amnesty occurring in 2018. The previous program, which started on August 1, 2018, was initially set for 90 days but was extended until December 31, 2018, to allow more people the chance to either regularize their status or exit the country without penalties.