IMPACT – HIGH

The United Arab Emirates extended the amnesty period for residents with visas that expired before March 1.

Key Points:

  • Previously, residents with visas that expired before March 1 had until Aug. 18 to leave the country without having to pay a fine. Now they have until Nov. 17.
  • Such residents can also leave the UAE during the amnesty period without being banned from re-entering the country in the future.
  • Residents with expired visas who wish to leave the country should cancel their expired visas prior to departure. Their visa cancellation documents will show the grace period they have to exit the country.

Additional information: The UAE also made it possible last month for foreign residents in the country with expired visas to renew them until Oct. 10. A toll-free number has been established to answer amnesty-related questions: 800 453.

Analysis & Comments: Allowing residents with visas that expired before March 1 to leave the country without paying fines and without being banned from future re-entry is intended to provide relief to them during the COVID-19 pandemic conditions. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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