As the UAE’s visa amnesty program comes to an end on October 31, overstaying residents without job offers are encouraged to leave the country temporarily, assured they can return without penalties or a re-entry ban. Authorities stress that this amnesty will not be extended, urging people to avoid fines by seizing the opportunity, as stated by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai.
The two-month visa amnesty, starting from September 1, offered an opportunity for those overstaying on tourist and expired residency visas to regularize their status without fines.
Lt Col Salem M Bin Ali, Director of GDRFA’s Customer Happiness Department, advised those awaiting job offers to consider leaving temporarily to avoid legal issues. “If there’s no confirmed job offer yet, exiting now will prevent fines, and re-entry remains possible,” he told Khaleej Times.
This marks the fourth UAE amnesty since 2007, showing a continued commitment to assist overstayers. In 2018, the UAE extended a 90-day amnesty by two months, allowing many to settle their residency. However, this year’s amnesty will not be extended, according to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security, with stricter entry controls expected for those who don’t comply.
Expats can approach authorized immigration channels to facilitate the exit process, such as ICP centers, typing centers, or online applications to return to good standing.