The UAE has extended its visa amnesty program to December 31, 2024 — the third and confirmed final deadline extension — giving people in violation of residency rules additional time to regularise their status or exit the country without fines. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced the extension, noting it coincides with the UAE's 53rd National Day celebrations.
Final Deadline for UAE Visa Amnesty
The amnesty, which began on September 1, 2024, was originally due to end on October 31. It has now been pushed to December 31 for the third time. ICP Director General Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili confirmed this is the last extension and urged all violators to resolve their status immediately.
"Starting from January 1, penalties and sanctions will be applied, and companies that failed to adhere to the established rules and regulations may be subjected to more frequent checks and possible legal proceedings," Maj Gen Al Khaili warned.
Since the amnesty launched, immigration service centres across the UAE have seen heavy inflows of applicants, particularly as each previous deadline approached.
What the UAE Visa Amnesty Covers
The amnesty allows individuals who have overstayed or violated their visa conditions to:
- Legalise their residency status without paying fines or penalties - Exit the country using a 14-day amnesty exit permit for visa violators - Submit applications through ICP's smart digital channels
Biometric updates, where required, must be completed in person at an immigration centre.
The standard UAE overstay fine is AED 50 per day (reduced from AED 100 per day previously). Those who overstay after December 31 will have fines applied automatically from January 1, 2025.
Required Documents for UAE Residence Visa Applications
The ICP lists the following as required documentation for residency visa applications during the amnesty:
- Medical fitness certificate (for applicants over 18) - Recent colour photo with a white background - Valid passport copy - Sponsor's passport with residence permit - Attested birth certificate (for children) - Entry permit - Emirates ID application receipt - Proof of residence (tenancy contract or ownership documents) - Medical insurance or health card - Mother's residence photo (for newborns)
Act Before December 31
Maj Gen Al Khaili stressed there will be no further extensions. This UAE visa amnesty is a significant final opportunity for overstayers to address their legal status — or leave — before penalties resume in the new year. Individuals are strongly encouraged to act well before the December 31 deadline to avoid delays at service centres.
