As the UAE’s visa amnesty period concludes on 31 October, authorities are enforcing strict penalties on employers hiring illegal residents, effective from 1 November. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), in partnership with Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), has introduced fines of up to £1 million for businesses employing undocumented or overstaying individuals. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the labour market and align with the UAE’s legal standards.
The visa amnesty scheme, which offered illegal residents the chance to correct their status or return home without penalties, will end on 31 October. With the grace period concluding, the UAE government reaffirms its dedication to preventing illegal employment and upholding lawful workforce regulations.
In previous amnesties, thousands took advantage of this leniency to regularise their status, reflecting the UAE’s balance between compassion and law enforcement. However, as the new regulations come into force, the government aims to deter employers from exploiting undocumented workers, fostering a fair and transparent labour market.
Severe Penalties for Non-Compliance
Employers who fail to comply with the new regulations face substantial fines of up to £1 million, reinforcing the UAE’s zero-tolerance policy toward illegal employment. This initiative aligns with the nation’s wider goal of securing employment for documented residents and ensuring strict adherence to residency laws.
“Employers must verify the residency status of all potential hires,” emphasised an ICP official, urging businesses to adopt rigorous hiring protocols to avoid costly fines.
Ensuring Compliance: Key Steps for Employers
To avoid penalties, businesses should:
- Regularly update employee documentation and visa statuses
- Consult ICP or GDRFA for guidance on residency laws
- Use verified recruitment channels to ensure legal hiring practices
Employers across sectors are encouraged to review compliance policies in light of these new regulations, promoting legal employment and supporting the UAE’s vision of a regulated labour market. With amnesty ending soon, now is the time for businesses to make necessary adjustments to remain fully compliant and avoid substantial penalties.