The United Arab Emirates has announced a new policy granting a two-month grace period for anyone violating the UAE residence system, effective from September 1, 2024. This announcement was made by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security on August 1.
Previously, residents, tourists, and visit visa holders who overstayed were required to pay a fine of AED50 per day. The new grace period aims to provide violators with an opportunity to regularize their status in accordance with the law, reflecting the UAE’s values of compassion and tolerance.
The validity of a UAE residence visa varies based on its type and sponsor, which can be a workplace or educational institution, with durations of one, two, three, five, or ten years. Short-term visa holders typically rely on a sponsor, while those with longer visas can self-sponsor. Applicants over 18 must complete a medical test, pass a security check, and apply for an Emirates ID.
The required documents for a UAE residence visa include:
- A medical fitness certificate (for those over 18)
- A recent coloured personal photo with a white background
- A valid copy of your passport
- A valid copy of the sponsor’s passport with a valid residence permit
- An attested birth certificate of the dependent (for children)
- An entry permit
- An Emirates ID application receipt
- A housing lease contract or proof of owning a residence
- Medical insurance or a health card
- The mother’s residence photo (for a newborn)
- For divorced or widowed women: proof of housing, a divorce or death certificate, and proof of her ability to earn a living.
