ARTICLE
22 January 2019

Visa Amnesty Program Ended: What Does The Future Hold?

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STA Law Firm

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STA is a full practice law firm headquartered in Dubai with offices across UAE (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah) and overseas (Bahrain, Delhi, Doha, Luxembourg, Moscow, Portugal and Mumbai). We work alongside several groups of companies within the Oil and Gas, Maritime, Logistics, Real estate, Construction, Hospitality and Healthcare sectors in the region and internationally providing them with our signature bespoke and cogent legal advice. We successfully represent our clients at various courts and arbitration centers across the UAE. We are also approached by several investors internationally who wish to find suitable business partners in the region.
In June of 2018, discussions first began concerning the implementation of a permanent six-month visa.
United Arab Emirates Immigration

Introduction

Towards the end of 2018, the UAE had introduced the six month amnesty period for those who had overstayed their visa expiry or were in the process of looking for new employment. There was a duration within which any who were applicable could come forward to obtain the visa or leave the country freely without incurring any penalties, and this time limit received expansions until the end of the year.

It has recently been specified and provided as a reminder to all that the time is indeed over, and the offer only stood to those who had lost their visas before August of 2018.

However, with the limited nature of the prior amnesty system, and because it is no longer applicable, it is expected that there will be something else arising in a similar vein.

New Six Month Visa Introduction

In June of 2018, discussions first began concerning the implementation of a permanent six-month visa. This visa would be available for those seeking jobs in the country, such as visitors or those with potential interest.

The idea is one which could be very promising, allowing for greater freedom for those who wish to enter the UAE seeking employment. This plan could be benefitting for both the nation and the people who this applies to. The plan is a very forward-thinking as it will allow for easier access to the city and let people make more informed decisions before finalizing their move to the UAE.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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