Thousands of undocumented Indian expatriates in the UAE face deportation as the amnesty scheme, offering relief from legal action, comes to a close on 30 October 2024. With just a few weeks left, those staying illegally without valid documents or overstaying their visas must apply for amnesty or face deportation.
Key Details:
- Amnesty Scheme: The UAE government launched the scheme on 1 September 2024, offering undocumented residents and visa overstayers an opportunity to regularize their status or exit the country without legal consequences. The scheme will run until 30 October.
- Indian Expatriates: Over 4,000 Indian nationals have sought relief under the scheme. The Indian Consulate in Dubai, in collaboration with local expatriate organizations, has issued 600 passports, 800 emergency certificates, and helped 500 people obtain exit permits.
Options for Undocumented Residents:
- Return to India: Those wishing to return home can apply for an emergency certificate at the Indian Consulate in Dubai or the Aweer Immigration Centre.
- Stay in the UAE: Residents wanting to stay can apply for a short-validity passport at any BLS center in Dubai or Northern Emirates.
Broader Impact:
- Indian Community: There are over 3.5 million Indians living in the UAE, and many have utilized this amnesty period to update their documents and secure their residency status.
- Other Countries: Pakistan and Bangladesh’s expatriates have also flocked to their respective assistance centers, with large crowds applying for relief. Many of these individuals entered the UAE illegally or violated visa rules by working on tourist visas.
Consequences After 1 November:
- Raids and Deportations: From 1 November, the Dubai administration will conduct raids in residential areas and companies to capture undocumented residents. Those caught will face heavy fines, deportation, and a permanent ban on re-entering the country.
- Final Opportunity: Major General Sultan Alnoomi, Director-General of ICP, emphasized that this is the last chance for individuals to resolve their status. So far, 20,000 people have applied for the scheme, and 7,500 have obtained exit permits.
Key Information on UAE Amnesty Scheme
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Amnesty Period | 1 September 2024 – 30 October 2024 |
| Target Group | Undocumented residents and visa overstayers |
| Indian Nationals Assisted | 4,000+ |
| Documents Issued | 600 passports, 800 emergency certificates, 500 exit permits |
| Return Option | Apply for an emergency certificate to return to India |
| Stay Option | Apply for a short-validity passport |
| Post-Amnesty Action | Raids, fines, deportations, and permanent entry bans from 1 November |
| Applications So Far | 20,000 applicants, 7,500 exit permits issued |
