The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced an extension to the two-month UAE visa amnesty period.

The deadline has been penned for December 31, 2024.

The scheme, which started on September 1, was originally scheduled to conclude on October 31.

Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director general of ICP, who revealed the extension date, said the deadline comes in conjunction with the UAE’s celebrations of the 53rd Union Day.

According to Mr Al Khaili, the decision to extend the date was made based on data and studies conducted by ICP work teams regarding the deadline and the volume of turnout witnessed by service centres across the country.

He added that the deadline represents the last chance for violators to settle their status with exemption from fines and without obtaining a ban on re-entering the country.

“The amnesty witnessed a large turnout by violators to settle their status and benefit from the benefits granted,” Mr Al Khaili said.

He, however, noted that the ICP and its strategic partners from government and private entities were keen to overcome obstacles and find solutions to the challenges faced by some categories of violators in light of the legal powers granted to them.

Thousands of residents have taken advantage of the opportunity to regularise their visa status, with government authorities waiving millions in fines for overstayers.