The grace period will start next month, on September 1
The UAE authorities have declared a two-month amnesty beginning September 1 for residence visa violators, offering them a chance to have their fines waived. This initiative aligns with the Federal Law on the Entry and Residency of Foreigners.
During this grace period, violators will be free from financial penalties and will be able to either update their visa status or exit the country without facing legal repercussions. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) explained that this move aims to give violators an opportunity to regularize their status in line with the UAE’s values of compassion and tolerance.
Details on how to benefit from this amnesty will be provided soon by the ICP.
Residence Visa Regulations
- In the UAE, residence visa validity varies based on type and sponsor. Sponsored visas are available for 1, 2, or 3 years, while self-sponsored visas can be valid for up to 5 or 10 years.
- Individuals who do not renew their visas or leave the country before their visa expires will incur fines.
- As of 2023, fines for overstaying have been standardized. Residents, tourists, and visit visa holders now face a daily fine of Dh50, reduced from the previous Dh100.
- Expats seeking to renew their visas are allowed a grace period of up to six months following the cancellation or expiration of their residence visa.
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