The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) announced on Thursday that the UAE visa amnesty program has been extended for two additional months, with the new deadline set for December 31, 2024.

Initially launched on September 1 and scheduled to conclude on October 31, the program has seen thousands of residents taking advantage of the opportunity to regularize their visa status, with the government waiving millions in fines for overstayers, Khaleej Times reported.

The director general of the ICP, Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, stated that the extension aligns with the UAE’s upcoming 53rd Union Day celebrations and reflects the country’s commitment to humanitarian values. He noted that the decision addresses the requests of individuals wishing to either leave the country or secure employment to amend their residency status.

Al Khaili observed a marked increase in applications as the initial deadline approached, describing the extension as a final chance for violators to settle their status without facing fines or re-entry bans. He emphasized that these lenient measures highlight the initiative’s humanitarian focus and the ICP’s dedication to helping violators secure their rights and care for their families.

He also warned that fines would be reinstated for those who continue to violate residency rules after the extension. The ICP plans to intensify inspections and enforce stricter measures, including deportations and adding violators to a no-entry list.

This year marks the fourth amnesty program initiated by the UAE government since 2007. The previous program in 2018 was originally set for 90 days but was extended for an additional two months to allow more violators to rectify their status or leave the country without penalties.

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Overstayers can apply at any ICP center across the UAE, as well as at approved typing centers and through online channels.