A view of the city during a storm in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 16, 2024. REUTERS/Rula Rouhana
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a visa amnesty programme that offers a lifeline to those residing illegally in the country. This initiative, which will run from 1 September to 30 October 2024, allows people to regularise their status or leave the UAE without incurring penalties.
“For many people, coming here and undergoing the procedure is stressful. As it is the first day, things have been slower, but we hope there will be more movement tomorrow,” said Abdul Ghafoor, public relations officer of the United PRO Association.
What is the process?
The procedure to benefit from the amnesty program is:
1. Emergency Certificate for Return to India:Indian citizens wishing to return to India can apply for an emergency certificate at the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Dubai or at the Awir Immigration Centre. The application process is free of cost and the customer service counters are available from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm during the amnesty period. Once the application is submitted, the certificate can be collected the next day between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
2. Short-validity passports for regularization of residence:Those wishing to stay in the UAE and regularise their residency can apply for a short-stay passport at any BLS centre in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. No appointment is required and the centres will operate every Sunday from 9am to 5pm during the amnesty period to accommodate the influx of applicants.
Who is eligible?
The amnesty applies to a wide range of people, including those with expired residence permits or visas, people born abroad whose guardians did not obtain residency within four months of birth, and those listed in administrative reports for work interruption or absenteeism. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has assured that no financial penalties will be imposed on those who breach visa rules during this grace period.
Who will benefit?
Among the beneficiaries of this programme are Indian expatriates. The Consulate General of India in Dubai has made available a helpline (050-9433111) and contact points within the Indian community for assistance. In addition, the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi has announced a waiver of health insurance fines during this period, providing additional relief to those violating entry and residency rules.
Here are some other things to keep in mind:
1. Exit permits: Those who choose to leave the UAE can apply for an exit permit online if they have already registered their biometric data. Otherwise, they must go to designated centres to have their fingerprints taken. The exit permit, valid for 14 days, allows the holder to leave the UAE without any administrative restrictions that may prevent their return.
2. Discounted airfares:Airlines such as Emirates, Etihad and Air Arabia are offering discounted fares to those who choose to leave the country under the amnesty programme, thereby easing the financial burden on those wishing to return home. Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, told Khaleej Times that they have coordinated with UAE airlines to offer discounted airfares to those wishing to leave the country but facing financial hardship.
3. Face-to-face job interviewsFor those who have regularised their visa status but wish to remain in the UAE, companies are conducting on-site interviews, providing an opportunity to explore new job prospects.
This initiative is facilitated by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in collaboration with 15 major companies.
“Companies including Shobha Group, Bhatla General Contracting Company, Hotpack, Assisi Builders, Transguard and Trojan have offered to provide employment to those benefiting from the amnesty,” according to a report by Malayala Manorama.
Support for expatriates
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and other consulates are actively supporting their citizens during this amnesty period. The Consulate General of India in Dubai has set up a dedicated helpline at 050-9433111 (operating from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm) and has also provided 24/7 assistance through the PBSK helpline at 800-46342. Additionally, Indian citizens can reach out to the contact points within the Indian community for guidance:
Hashim, Indian Social Club, Fujairah: 050-3901330
Hashim, India Relief Committee, Ras Al Khaimah: 056-1464275
Roop Sidhu, Indian Association, Ajman: 050-6330466
Hari, Indian Association, Sharjah: 050-7866591 / 06-5610845
Sajad Nattika, Indian Association, Umm Al Quwain: 050-5761505
Binoy Philip, Indian Social Club, Khorfakkan: 055-3894101
Zainuddin, Indian Cultural Social Centre, Kalba: 050-6708008
Similar efforts are being made for other nationalities. Philippine missions in the UAE have urged their citizens to quickly take advantage of the programme. The Pakistani Embassy and Consulate have remained open for four consecutive Saturdays to accommodate the rush of visa applications, and hundreds of people have turned up to renew their passports and identity cards issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
First published: September 2, 2024 | 15:48 IS
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