Visa amnesty scheme termed UAE’s special gift for expatriates

DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a groundbreaking visa amnesty scheme, hailed as a special gift from the government to expatriates who entered the country legally but have since become illegal residents due to expired visas.

In an interview with Geo News, Lt. Col. Salem M. Bin Ali, Director of the Customer Happiness Department at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), shared his insights into this unique initiative, underscoring its distinctiveness from previous amnesty programmes. “This visa amnesty scheme is unlike anything we’ve launched before,” Lt. Col. Salem M. Bin Ali told Geo News. “The UAE government is offering a rare opportunity for individuals who have overstayed their visas due to various unforeseen circumstances. This initiative not only allows them to regularize their status without penalties but also opens up new avenues for them to rebuild their lives here.”

Running from September 1 to October 30, the amnesty scheme provides a two-month window for individuals with expired visas to either legalize their stay or return to their home countries without fines or entry bans. This is designed to be more inclusive and supportive than previous iterations, offering a comprehensive solution to those who have found themselves on the wrong side of the law due to expired visas. He emphasized that this scheme is a generous initiative from the UAE government, aimed at assisting foreigners living in the country illegally. “This visa amnesty is a gift from our government to those who want to make themselves legal residents or return home without the fear of fines or bans,” he said.

A key feature of this year’s amnesty is the specially set up tent in the Al Awir area of Dubai, which is more than just a venue for legal proceedings. “The amnesty tent in Al Awir is unique in its approach,” Lt. Col. Ali explained. “Not only are we assisting people in regularising their visa status, but we have also partnered with several business companies that are offering job opportunities on the spot. This means that individuals can secure employment and immediately obtain a new visa, all under one roof.”

This initiative reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to supporting expatriates and ensuring those who wish to continue living and working in the country can do so legally and with dignity. Lt. Col. Ali urged the Pakistani community and other expatriates to take full advantage of this opportunity. “We encourage everyone who qualifies to come forward, regularise their status, and explore the job opportunities available. This scheme is not just about rectifying past mistakes but it’s about creating a new future also.”

The amnesty scheme has been warmly welcomed by the expatriate community, particularly those who have faced difficulties in renewing visas. “This is a chance to start fresh,” Lt. Col. Ali concluded. “The UAE is offering you a lifeline — grab it and secure a brighter future for yourself and your family.”