Overstaying expats in the UAE must now submit a valid work visa to regularize their residency status, according to new legislation. This measure is part of a larger attempt to guarantee that only those with valid work are permitted to remain in the nation.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) will issue these permits. This shift, verified by a senior official, is now a vital step for expats who want to formalize their stay.

Work Permit Requirement for Overstayers

According to Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, director general of Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), overstaying expats must produce a valid MoHRE work permit to proceed with their residency applications. He made it clear that a company's offer letter is not considered a genuine document in this procedure.

The work visa, he continued, ensures that the individual has a legal job in the UAE and contributes to the economy. Al-Marri made it clear, "This measure is designed to allow only those with legitimate employment to continue residing in the country."

The purpose of implementing this requirement is to tighten residency laws and ensure that expats who remain in the UAE contribute to society.

Part of the UAE’s Amnesty Programme

The work permit requirement is a component of the UAE's continuing amnesty policy. This effort enables people who have overstayed their visas to amend their status without incurring penalties, prohibitions, or legal consequences.

Al-Marri went on to explain that the work permit acts as proof of employment and is required for foreigners who want to stay in the UAE. "Our goal is to ensure that individuals can continue their lives in the UAE legally and without delays in the regularization process," according to him.

The amnesty initiative is intended to provide an opportunity for unlawful inhabitants to change their status without facing consequences. Thousands have already benefited from the plan, and officials are pushing more overstayers to obtain all essential paperwork, including the work visa, to avoid.

Two-Month Scheme for Irregular Residents

From September 1 to October 30, the UAE implemented a two-month effort that allowed visa violators to regularize their status or depart the country without penalty. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has said that no financial fines will be levied on persons during this time.

The program allows visa violators to change their resident status without incurring bans, exit fees, or other legal consequences. The work visa requirement assures that individuals who stay are employed and contribute to the economy, which helps the country's efforts to efficiently restrict immigration.

FAQS

How long does the amnesty plan for overstayers last?

The amnesty program is presently operating for two months, from September 1 to October 30, and allows visa violators to either regularize their status or leave the country without facing legal consequences.

Is the work permit requirement applicable to all expats in the UAE?

No, the work permit requirement only applies to overstayers who want to regularize their residency status as part of the amnesty scheme. Regular expats with valid residency do not have to meet this condition.