A top official from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has issued a final reminder to all overstaying residents in the UAE to utilize the ongoing visa amnesty program, which is set to conclude on December 31, 2024. The amnesty, initially slated to end on October 31, was extended to give individuals more time to legalize their status or return home without penalties.
Critical Deadline Approaching
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the GDRFA, emphasized the critical nature of the deadline. "As the amnesty period draws to a close, we urge those who have not yet regularized their situation to take immediate action and avoid penalties," he stated.
Enforcement and Inspections to Intensify
According to Major General Salah Al Qamzi, assistant director general of the Violators and Foreigners Follow-up Sector, the GDRFA plans to launch rigorous inspection campaigns targeting those who fail to comply by the deadline. "Our commitment to maintaining community security involves enforcing immigration laws impartially and transparently, and these intensified efforts will commence as soon as the amnesty ends," Al Qamzi explained.
Community Engagement and Humanitarian Efforts
Al Marri also called for widespread community support to ensure that information about the amnesty reaches all corners of the expatriate community. He shared success stories of individuals who have already benefited from the amnesty, securing employment and improving their lives significantly.
Highlighting the humanitarian aspect of the amnesty, Al Marri recounted how the initiative had positively impacted families and children, some of whom lacked proper documentation to receive basic services like vaccinations. "Our collaboration with local health services ensured that even children without visas were not left behind in receiving essential care," he added.
A Final Call to Action
With less than two weeks remaining, Al Marri’s message to the community is urgent and clear: "This is a genuine opportunity to rectify your status, eliminate any fines, and start anew. Those who overlook this chance may find themselves regretting it deeply in the future."
As the amnesty deadline nears, residents in question are encouraged to contact the GDRFA or visit their nearest service center to ensure they are fully informed of the necessary steps to regularize their status under the current amnesty provisions.
