The UAE visa amnesty program, extended as a final opportunity in 2024, gives undocumented families a chance to regularize their children’s residency without penalties. The UAE government initially launched the amnesty on September 1, intending it to end in October. Now extended to December 31, 2024, the amnesty offers a crucial chance for parents to avoid hefty fines by legalizing their children’s residency status.

The amnesty program also benefits other undocumented residents, including those planning to marry in the UAE. Once individuals legalize their residency, they can then proceed with civil, religious, or ceremonial marriages in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

UAE Amnesty Scheme 2024 Update: An Extended Window for Legal Residency

In a recent announcement, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) granted a two-month extension to the UAE visa amnesty program, moving the deadline from October 31 to December 31, 2024. 

At the UAE’s 53rd Union Day celebrations, ICP Director General Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili emphasized the importance of the amnesty program. He highlighted how it showcases the country’s humanitarian values and commitment to supporting families and individuals facing legal difficulties.

The extension also signifies a last opportunity for illegal residents in the UAE to avoid fines and secure legal residency status, or leave without penalties. After December 31, 2024, fines will apply for those without valid residency.

Final Opportunity for Parents: Legalize Undocumented Children Through the UAE Amnesty

Parents with undocumented children in the UAE face a rare opportunity to secure legal residency through extended visa amnesty. High overstay fines and restrictions often prevent undocumented children from accessing essential services like education and healthcare. The amnesty program, which allows for legalizing residency without penalties, is a relief for families in this situation.

For example, a Pakistani family recently used the UAE visa amnesty to clear over Dh300,000 in accumulated fines. Facing significant financial struggles, the family was finally able to legalize their status and secure a better future for their children.

Why Families Should Act Now to Use the UAE Visa Amnesty Program

Legalizing undocumented children has many benefits for families:

• Avoid High Penalties: Once the amnesty deadline expires, undocumented residents face overstay fines, which can quickly escalate.
• Access to Education and Healthcare: Legal residency is essential for children to attend school and receive healthcare in the UAE.
• Family Stability: Legalizing residency helps ensure family members remain together and are free from the threat of deportation.
• Reduced Risk of Travel Bans and Legal Issues: Without legal residency, families could face complications with future travel and employment.
• Increased Job and Economic Security: Residency allows parents and children to pursue education, training, and employment opportunities without fear of legal obstacles.

The UAE visa amnesty program provides a pathway for families to overcome their residency issues and access essential services without financial burdens, offering stability and a brighter future for children and parents alike.

Steps for Parents to Regularize Their Children Through the UAE Visa Amnesty Program

For parents who have been unable to register their children, the visa amnesty program provides a critical solution. EasyWedding team can assist families in obtaining birth certificates required for residency. We offer the following to get the baby’s birth certificate:

1. Initial Consultation: Assessing each family’s situation and determining the required documentation.
2. Requirement Submission: Organizing and submitting necessary documents to authorities.
3. Document Translation: Translating any required documents to meet UAE government standards.
4. MOFA Attestation: Ensuring all documents are verified through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
5. Follow-Up Support: Keeping track of the application process and providing updates.
6. Certificate Delivery: Delivering finalized documents, allowing families to legalize their children’s residency.

UAE Visa Amnesty in Action: Families Clearing Fines and Securing Residency

The visa amnesty program is helping families achieve a new start, as seen with a recent success story. A Pakistani family with Dh300,000 in fines managed to clear their debts and achieve residency for their undocumented child. 

The father, facing financial setbacks, struggled to find work and sponsor his children. However, the mother’s employment allowed the family to secure their residency through amnesty, ultimately avoiding additional penalties and ensuring a stable future for their children.

Can I Marry in the UAE After Gaining Residency Through the 2024 Visa Amnesty Program?

Yes, individuals who have recently obtained residency through the UAE visa amnesty program can legally marry in the UAE. This amnesty program enables those with expired visas to regularize their status, granting them residency and eligibility for marriage registration.

Couples can choose from several marriage types across UAE locations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, including:

• Wedding Ceremonies
• Sharia and Religious Marriages
• Online Weddings
• Civil Marriages

Has the UAE Visa Amnesty Been Extended?

Yes, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has extended the amnesty deadline by two months. The UAE visa amnesty program now concludes on December 31, 2024.

Who Is Eligible for the UAE Visa Amnesty Program?

The amnesty program applies to those who overstayed their visas, undocumented children, and undocumented individuals wishing to marry in the UAE. However, those who entered the UAE illegally, have recent visa violations, deportation orders, or serious criminal records are ineligible.

Can I Remove My Overstay Fines in the UAE Through the Amnesty?

Yes, the UAE amnesty program allows residents with overstay fines to legalize their status or leave the country without incurring penalties.

Can Undocumented Couples Marry After Using the Visa Amnesty?

Yes, couples who obtain residency through the amnesty can proceed with civil, religious, or ceremonial weddings in the UAE.