COVID-19: Visa validity extended

IMPACT – HIGH

The United Arab Emirates has extended the validity of all visas, entry permits and Emirates ID cards in an effort to ease compliance with immigration requirements in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Points:

• Visas, residence permits and Emirates ID cards that expire on or after March 1 are automatically extended to Dec. 31.
• The extension applies to UAE residents currently in the UAE, as well as those outside the country.
• Overstay fines for tourists currently in the UAE on a temporary visa are also waived until Dec. 31.

Analysis & Comments: The visa validity extension is good news for employers, as it will ease compliance with immigration requirements for affected foreign national employees. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

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