The UAE has introduced a two-month grace period for those with expired residence visas, beginning on September 1, 2024.
During this grace period, individuals can either regularize their visa status or exit the country without incurring fines or facing legal consequences.
The initiative is being implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.
They have stated that the “procedures for implementing this decision will be announced soon.”
In a statement, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) said the decision aims to give violators a new chance to regularize their status according to the law, as a gesture that reflects the values of compassion and tolerance upon which the UAE is built.
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
Last year, the fine for overstaying a visa was standardized. If you remain in the UAE past the expiration date of your residence, tourist, or visit visa, the fine is now Dhs50 per day. Previously, the fine was Dhs100 per day.
The UAE Residence Visa
The duration of a residence visa depends on its type and the sponsor, which is typically your employer or educational institution. It can be valid for one, two, three, five, or ten years, depending on your specific situation.
If you are 18 or older and applying for a UAE residence visa, you will need to undergo a medical test, pass a security check, and apply for an Emirates ID.
You might also like: Ultimate guide to Emirates ID: The mandatory identity card in UAE