United Arab Emirates | Grace period policy extended

The Emirati government announced that the grace period for foreign nationals on expired residence permits to resolve their immigration status has been extended until Dec. 31.

Key Points:

• As BAL reported, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security will allow individuals a grace period to regularize their status or depart the country without penalty.
• Officials stated that all necessary measures will be taken to implement this initiative, including waiving fines and legal consequences, so that individuals will have the opportunity to either adjust their status or leave the country more easily.
• The grace period has now been extended to Dec. 31. It was originally scheduled to end on Oct 31.

Additional Information: The current penalty for overstay on an expired residence permit is 50 AED (about US$14) per day.

BAL Analysis: The initiative aims to provide foreign nationals with a new opportunity to regularize their status. Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security officials stated they will intensify inspection campaigns targeting violators in collaboration with government partners, taking legal action against individuals found in breach after the extension period ends. BAL will provide further updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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