Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

Emadeddin Khalil, Staff Reporter

On Sunday, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) commenced the processing of applications from individuals who have violated the residency system and who are seeking to rectify their status or leave the UAE within the amnesty period, which extends until Oct.30, 2024.

The applications are to be submitted via the Authority's smart services, which offer 19 different channels that are accessible 24/7, to respond to all inquiries.

The authorised typing centres in Abu Dhabi observed a considerable influx of individuals seeking to regularise their status, with several offices confirming the receipt of a substantial number of applications on the first day.

These individuals were seeking information regarding the necessary requirements and the application process.

Furthermore, a number of typing centres have announced a reduction in application fees, with the intention of facilitating the process for those in violation and ensuring the ease of submission of applications. It is anticipated that the number of applicants will increase in the coming days, they added.

The ICP called on all those who wish to obtain further information to contact the main contact centre on (600522222).

This is in addition to other channels, including the Authority's email, all social media, chatbot, smart application and others.

It should be noted that the application can be submitted through approved printing offices, without the need to visit the service centres except when notified to do so, solely for the purpose of completing the 'biometric fingerprint'.

The categories of beneficiaries of the decision can be broadly classified into four main categories. Visa violators, residency violators, those listed in administrative reports or who have stopped working, and foreign-born children born in the country whose guardian has not confirmed their residency.

Three categories are excluded from the aforementioned benefits: those who have violated their visas or residency status after 1 September 2024, those who have been listed in administrative reports after the same date, and individuals who have been deported from the UAE or GCC countries.

The amnesty period offers a range of benefits, including exemption from administrative penalties associated with residency and visa violations resulting from illegal staying in the country, fines related to establishment cards, ID cards, and Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation violations.

Furthermore, the amnesty offers exemption from cancellation fees related to residency and visas, fees associated with filing a work interruption report, departure fees, fees for residency and visa details, and departure permit fees. Furthermore, the period allows violator to leave the country after settling his/her status without having his entry ban stamp to the country.

The Authority explained that that the violator's status will be settled (either by leaving or rectifying the status, depending on the circumstances), and that the individual will be able to benefit from the grace period, commencing from the date of submission of the request and continuing until it is received by the employee or until the individual is directed to fulfil the requisite requirements.

In order to facilitate beneficiaries and enable them to obtain services at any time, the working hours at the service centres where the biometric fingerprint is registered will be extended to 8 pm on working days throughout the grace period.

The deadline for rectifying the status of violators represents an exceptional opportunity for both the state and violators to achieve a set of strategic objectives. It provides a flexible legal environment that enhances security, social and economic stability, and promotes the values of tolerance, compassion and social cohesion. Furthermore, it offers exceptional support to violators, facilitating the necessary steps to correct their status during the grace period through flexible and facilitated procedures.