Hundreds turn out as UAE's three-month visa amnesty begins

The UAE's much-publicised visa amnesty begins with thousands of undocumented workers expected to attend immigration centres set up to process them.

The new scheme will allow anyone who has overstayed their work or residency visa the opportunity to either legalise their status in the country or return home. previous amnesties in 2007 and 2013 saw more than 340,000 illegal residents taking advantage of the grace period.

Those wishing to take advantage of the programme - which runs until October 31 - can visit any of nine centres dedicated to the amnesty, including those in Al Shahama in Abu Dhabi and Al Aweer in Dubai.

Anyone living in the country without a valid visa will be allowed to return home without paying the fines usually required for overstaying, and without facing the possible threat of a jail term.

The government has also announced a one-year residency and exemption from overstay visa fines for individuals from war-torn countries.

The full list of immigration centres set up to process those seeking assistance includes offices in Shahama, Al Ain and Al Gharbia in Abu Dhabi and Al Aweer in Dubai. The remaining five offices will be in Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain.

Here's what you need to know:

How long can those opt to alter their visa status stay in the country to look for a job?

A six-month temporary visa will be issued to individuals looking for employment.

Will those who entered the country illegally be given amnesty?

Yes, but they will be instructed to leave the country and banned from returning for two years.

Can individuals with criminal cases against them apply for amnesty?

No. Anyone with criminal cases against them or who have been previously banned from obtaining a visa is not eligible.

Can people with absconding reports apply for the amnesty?

Yes. Immigration authorities will delete any absconding reports and issue an exit permit without a ban.

What documents are required to apply for an exit permit?

Residents need to submit either their original passport or an Emergency Certificate. A valid airline ticket out of the country must also be provided.

Can residents without passports apply for the amnesty?

Yes.

What is the fee for applying for an exit permit?

Dh220.

What is the fee for modifying residency status?

Dh500.

What is the time period allowed to leave the country after receiving an exit permit?

Those given exit permits are required to leave within 10 days of its issue.

What benefits will the amnesty provide to those from war-torn countries such as Syria or Yemen?

Individuals will be granted a one-year residence visa without restrictions