IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Emirati government recently extended its grace period for some foreign nationals whose visas were canceled.

Key Points:

  • Foreign nationals can stay in the United Arab Emirates for 180 days past the cancelation date of their residence permit if they are:
    • Golden residency holders and their family members.
    • Green residency holders and their family members.
    • The widow or divorcee of a foreigner residing in the UAE.
    • Students who recently finished their studies.
    • Skilled professionals in the first and second level classifications of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
  • Foreign nationals can stay in the UAE for 90 days past the cancelation date of their visa if they are:
    • Skilled professionals in the third level classification of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
    • Real estate owners.
  • Foreign nationals can stay in the UAE for 60 days past the cancelation date of their visa if they hold a visa issued in the presence of a guarantor or host (non-degree holder).
  • Foreign nationals can stay in the UAE for 30 days past the cancelation date of their visa if they hold any visa not mentioned above.

BAL Analysis: Emirati authorities updated visa overstay grace periods to coordinate with recent widespread immigration changes announced in early October.

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

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