Introduction Of UAE
As the UAE gears up for its latest visa amnesty scheme, set to begin on September 1, 2024, many overstaying expatriates are eager to understand how this initiative will impact their future in the country. Unlike previous amnesties, this programme aims to provide a fresh start for those who have overstayed their visas, offering them a chance to regularise their status without facing hefty fines. However, a critical question lingers: will overstaying expats face a ban after changing their status?
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Understanding the Amnesty Scheme
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) will soon detail the specific procedures and formalities for the two-month grace period. However, according to immigration advisor Ali Saeed Al Kaabi, the scheme ensures that those who regularise their visa status during the amnesty will not face any ban and will be free to return to the UAE in the future.
“This programme by the UAE authorities will allow violators to avoid fines and ensure that they can return to the country in the future without restrictions,” Al Kaabi told Khaleej Times.
How to Ease the Return Process
Amnesty-seekers who wish to return to the UAE are advised to take proactive steps before leaving the country. Al Kaabi recommends securing a residency visa or an offer letter from a UAE-based company as a way to smoothen the return process.
“Once an overstayer is able to regularise his/her visa status, it is advisable to obtain a residency permit before leaving the country. This could make their return process smoother,” he explained.
How This Amnesty Differs from the Past
Nissar Thalangara, President of the Indian Association Sharjah, has provided further insights after meeting with Dr. Omar Al Owais and Maj-Gen Azeem Suwiedi from the ICP. According to Thalangara, this year’s amnesty is distinctly different from previous ones, where overstayers often faced temporary bans after participating in the scheme.
“During the last amnesty by the UAE Government, overstayers faced a ban for a certain period of time,” he said. This time, however, residence visa violators are assured they can return to the UAE at any time without facing a ban.
Additionally, unlike in previous years, where special tents were set up at immigration offices to manage the amnesty process, this year’s programme will be entirely managed through approved typing centres across the UAE. “Everything will be handled at approved typing centres across the UAE, making the process easier and more user-friendly compared to the last amnesty,” Thalangara noted.
Awareness Campaigns to Support the Community
To ensure that the community is well-informed about the amnesty, the Indian Association Sharjah is launching awareness campaigns. Thalangara highlighted that during the last amnesty, many overstayers were unaware of the initiative and were stranded in the country for years.
“Raising awareness is crucial to ensure that these individuals can make the best use of this opportunity to regularise their status,” he said.
To support this effort, the association will set up a dedicated counter at their office to offer advice and assistance on clearing illegal residency issues. The help desk will be open daily from 9 am to 6 pm throughout the amnesty period, ensuring that those in need have access to the necessary information and guidance.
Conclusion
The upcoming UAE visa amnesty offers a lifeline to overstaying expatriates, providing them with the opportunity to start afresh without facing a ban or hefty fines. With proactive measures and increased awareness, this scheme is set to be a significant improvement over previous amnesties, allowing more individuals to regularise their status and return to the UAE without restrictions.
