If you’ve been eyeing your expired visa with a mix of dread and resignation, worry no more! UAE is rolling out the red carpet for all those with visa overstay fines in a splendid two-month visa amnesty, beginning September 1, 2024. Yes, you heard that right – no more sleepless nights over fines and “no-entry” stamps. This is your golden opportunity to clean the slate and live to tell the tale!
Two-Month Grace Period For Overstay Fines In The UAE
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) aims to provide violators with a new opportunity to regularize their status in accordance with the law, as a gesture that reflects the values of compassion and tolerance upon which the UAE is built. pic.twitter.com/70egnBx3ll
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) August 1, 2024
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has pulled a rabbit out of the hat by announcing a grace period designed to rescue you from the clutches of those pesky fines. Between September 1 and October 31, 2024, you can bid adieu to your overstay woes without shelling out a single dirham. Whether you’re looking to mend your visa status, switch to a new sponsor, or simply take a bow and exit the country, the amnesty covers all bases.
What’s The Catch? No Catch!
So, what’s the catch? There isn’t one! The ICP’s announcement is a testament to the UAE’s values of compassion and tolerance. It’s essentially a “get out of jail free” card for those whose visas have been collecting dust. Forget the stress of mounting penalties and the fear of being stamped with a “no-entry” mark; this amnesty lets you hit the reset button.
A Closer Look at Those Pesky Overstay Fines
The penalty for overstaying used to be a bit of a gamble. Previously, tourists faced a Dhs100 daily fine, while residents were fined Dhs25 per day. Fast forward to November 2022, and the rates got a makeover: now, both tourist and resident fines are standardised to Dhs50 per day. Tourist fines were slashed by half, while residency fines saw a bit of an increase.
In short, if your visa has expired and you’ve been on edge about those fines, September’s amnesty is your chance to make a fresh start. Whether you choose to stay and regularise your status or leave the country with no strings attached, the UAE is offering you a rare opportunity to reset without financial repercussions. So, mark your calendar and get ready to embrace a new chapter with a clear visa record!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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