Visa overstay fines updated

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Emirati government recently updated its overstay fines for certain visa types.

Key Points:

• As of Nov. 5, tourist and visitor visa holders who overstay their visas must pay 50 AED (about US$14), decreased from 100 AED, per day of overstay.
• Residence visa holders who overstay their visas must pay 50 AED, increased from 25 AED, per day of overstay.
• Foreign nationals who do not renew their residence visa on time have a 30-day grace period to cancel and change their visa category or leave the UAE.

Additional Information: UAE authorities announced they will extend the 30-day grace period to six months; however, they have yet to set an implementation date.

BAL Analysis: Emirati authorities updated visa overstay fines in coordination with recent widespread immigration changes announced in early October. Individuals should note that the UAE’s government portals have not been updated to reflect the most recent changes, but foreign nationals should take the new visa overstay fines into account.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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