The United Arab Emirates has introduced a temporary measure allowing foreign residents whose visas expired while they were abroad to return to the country without paying overstay fines or applying for a new entry permit. The special provision will remain in effect until March 31.
The initiative was announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), which said the move is intended to help expatriates who were unable to return to the UAE before their residency visas expired due to travel disruptions and regional instability.
Under the new rule, residents whose visas expired while they were outside the country can re-enter the UAE directly using their existing residency documents. Authorities have also waived any penalties normally imposed for overstaying in such situations during the grace period.
Officials said the temporary policy was introduced after many residents were stranded overseas because of flight disruptions and airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East. Ongoing tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel have affected travel routes and led to cancellations or delays for several international flights.
As a result, numerous expatriates working in the UAE were unable to return to the country before their visas expired. The government’s latest measure aims to ease their return and help them regularise their residency status once they arrive.
According to authorities, returning residents will be allowed to complete the necessary procedures to renew or update their residency permits after re-entering the country. Immigration service centres and airport authorities have also been instructed to facilitate the process and assist travellers during the temporary relief period.
The UAE hosts millions of expatriate workers from around the world, including a large number from South Asia. Flexible immigration measures such as this are often introduced during emergencies to support residents and minimise administrative complications caused by unexpected travel restrictions.
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