JobXDubai

As the UAE’s visa amnesty programme nears its conclusion on October 31, 2024, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has made it clear: there will be no extensions. This announcement serves as a final call for visa violators to regularise their status or face serious consequences.

Key Points:

1. Amnesty programme ends on October 31, 2024
2. No extensions will be granted
3. Stricter measures and deportations to follow
4. Violators risk being placed on a no-entry list

Crackdown on Violators

Maj-Gen Sultan Al Nuaimi, ICP director-general, emphasised the gravity of the situation:

“This is the golden and final opportunity for individuals to adjust their situations. There will be no leniency, and there will be no court proceedings.”

The ICP plans to launch intensive inspection campaigns in residential areas and companies where violators are likely to be found. These efforts will continue beyond the amnesty period, with authorities prepared to:

• Apprehend violators
• Enforce fines
• Carry out deportations
• Add offenders to a list of individuals banned from future entry to the UAE

Urgent Call to Action

With just three weeks remaining, the ICP urges those who have received exit permits to leave the country before the deadline. Authorities have noted that some individuals, despite receiving permits, have yet to depart.

Success of the Programme

While final numbers are pending, the amnesty programme has seen significant engagement:

• Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs reported regularising the status of nearly 20,000 individuals in September alone
• 7,401 exit permits were issued to violators wishing to return to their home countries

Many airlines have supported the initiative by offering discounted or even free tickets to those leaving under the amnesty.

What Happens After October 31?

1. Intensive inspection campaigns will begin
2. Fines will be imposed on violators
3. Deportations will be carried out
4. Violators will be added to a no-entry list for future UAE visits
5. Re-entry will only be possible after settling all fines

Final Advice for Visa Violators

1. Act immediately to regularise your status
2. If you have an exit permit, leave before the deadline
3. Seek assistance from airlines for discounted or free tickets if eligible
4. Understand that there will be no extensions or leniency after October 31

This amnesty period represents the last chance for visa violators to rectify their situation without severe penalties. As the UAE prepares to tighten its immigration controls, those in violation are strongly advised to take advantage of this final opportunity.