During the grace period, illegal residents will have the chance to waive their fines, allowing them to either return home or remain in the country legally.
“We’ve received numerous inquiries from residency visa overstayers, asking about document processing and how to regularize their status,” said Firose Khan, operations manager at Arabian Business Centre.
However, Khan noted that they are limited in what they can say about the procedure, as they are still awaiting details from immigration authorities.
“In a few days, we expect to receive more information from the authorities, and our online portal will be updated accordingly,” he added.
Procedures and Requirements
Mohammed Dawood Shahbuddin of Seven City Document Clearing Services also reported receiving several calls daily. “These overstayers are eager to regularize their status,” he said.
Shahbuddin explained that an overstayer can submit their documents to the agency, which will then pass them on to an Amer center. Once the application is approved, an outpass will be issued, giving the illegal resident 14 days to exit the country.
“The overstayer will need to either secure a job offer and apply for a visa to stay or leave the country,” he added.
Clarifications Awaited
Many typing centers are still waiting for full instructions from the authorities.
“When news of the UAE amnesty program broke, many people approached us for detailed procedures. However, the only information we have so far concerns the application dates and duration,” said Nazeel Ahmed of Al Burj Document Clearing Services.
In the meantime, Ahmed said they are focusing on raising awareness of the importance of the amnesty scheme.
With the grace period starting on September 1, typing centers are bracing for a surge in inquiries.
“We urge everyone staying illegally in the country to take advantage of this opportunity and legalize their residency status. Don’t worry about the time it takes. Once you’re through it, you’ll have your freedom,” said Khan.