More than 2,000 overstaying Filipinos in the UAE have sought assistance from the Philippine Embassy and Consulate since the UAE’s two-month visa amnesty program began on September 1, Khaleej Times reported. Within the first week, 2,053 Filipinos reached out to avail of the amnesty, which allows them to regularize their status without penalties.
The program, which covers all visa types, has seen a significant number of applicants renewing or replacing lost passports. Some families have also sought help in documenting their children to adjust their immigration status.
One Filipina from Sharjah, overstaying for eight years, was among the first to benefit. She had her overstay fines waived and received a complimentary exit pass and ticket to return home. The Migrant Workers Office in Dubai also provided her with cash assistance and medical aid.
The missions urged Filipinos to engage directly with official authorities and avoid unauthorized entities offering assistance.