DUBAI — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new visa amnesty scheme, offering a lifeline to expatriates who have overstayed their visas. This initiative allows them to either legalize their residency status or return to their home countries without facing fines or entry bans.
Lt. Col. Salem M. Bin Ali, Director of the Customer Happiness Department at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), highlighted the uniqueness of this program in an interview with Geo News. “This visa amnesty scheme is unlike anything we’ve launched before,” said Lt. Col. Bin Ali. “It provides an opportunity for those who overstayed due to unforeseen circumstances to regularize their status without penalties and rebuild their lives in the UAE.”
The scheme, which runs from September 1 to October 30, offers a two-month window for residents with expired visas to address their situation. This initiative is seen as more inclusive than previous programs, offering a comprehensive solution to individuals caught in visa violations. “This is a gift from our government, allowing people to legalize their stay or return home without the fear of fines or bans,” Lt. Col. Bin Ali added.
A key aspect of the scheme is the “amnesty tent” in Al Awir, Dubai, set up specifically to assist individuals in processing their visa statuses. What makes it unique is the collaboration with businesses offering on-the-spot job opportunities. “People can not only fix their visa status but also secure employment and obtain a new visa immediately,” Lt. Col. Bin Ali explained.
This initiative reinforces the UAE’s commitment to supporting expatriates, helping them continue living and working in the country legally. Lt. Col. Bin Ali encouraged expatriates, particularly from the Pakistani community, to take full advantage of the amnesty. “This scheme is about more than fixing visa issues. It’s about offering people a chance at a new future,” he said.
The expatriate community has responded positively, viewing the amnesty as a fresh start. “The UAE is offering you a lifeline,” Lt. Col. Bin Ali concluded. “Take this chance to secure a brighter future for yourself and your family.”