UAE Amnesty & Overstay Rules 2026 – Grace Periods, Eligibility, Fines, and How to Legalize Your Status

If you have overstayed your UAE visa or your residence permit expired, it is important to understand the rules, penalties, and possible relief measures. The UAE provides options to either rectify your status or exit the country legally. In some cases, the government may announce amnesty programs, offering violators a chance to leave without fines or legal consequences.

What “UAE Amnesty” Means

UAE amnesty refers to a temporary grace period announced by the government, allowing violators to:

• Exit the UAE without fines or bans.

• Renew or change visa status with reduced penalties.

These windows are limited and not always available, so applicants must act quickly if announced.

Recent Grace Periods & Policy Updates

2018 National Amnesty

From August to October 2018, the UAE allowed thousands of overstayers to legalize their stay or exit penalty-free. Nearly 100,000 expats benefited.

2024 Two-Month Grace Period

In 2024, a special two-month grace period was announced for expired residence permits, letting residents either renew or leave without fines.

2026 Outlook: What to Expect

As of 2026, there is no permanent amnesty, but the UAE may introduce future grace periods. Always confirm via official UAE authorities before acting.

Current Overstay Fines & When They Apply

The UAE standardized overstay fines to make rules simpler:

• AED 50 per day for visit, tourist, or residence visa overstays.

• Additional admin and service fees apply when exiting or regularizing.

• Fines are calculated from the day after your visa expires.

Are You Eligible if a New Amnesty is Announced?

Typically, amnesty applies to:

• Expats who overstayed visit, tourist, or residence visas.

• Foreign nationals working without valid permits.

• Those unable to leave earlier due to penalties or financial challenges.

Not eligible: Applicants with criminal or police cases must resolve those before applying.

How to Rectify Your Status in 2026 (with or without amnesty)

Option A: Legalize & Stay (Status Amendment)

1. Secure a new sponsor (employer/family).

2. Apply for status amendment with GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates).

3. Pay required fees and fines.

4. Complete medical and Emirates ID (for residence visas).

Option B: Exit the UAE (Overstay Settlement & Exit Permits)

1. Check your fine amount online.

2. Pay outstanding fines at approved channels.

3. Obtain an exit permit if instructed.

4. Leave within the specified time to avoid bans.

Documents You’ll Typically Need

• Valid passport (6+ months)

• Old visa page or residence permit copy

• Passport-size photographs

• Flight booking (for exit cases)

• Sponsorship documents (for new visa application)

How to Check Your Fines & Application Status Online

You can check your UAE overstay fines and visa status:

• On the GDRFA Dubai portal (by passport/file number).

• Through the ICP UAE website/app for other emirates.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Rejection

• Waiting for unverified rumors of amnesty.

• Submitting incomplete or fake documents.

• Failing to pay fines before attempting exit.

• Using unlicensed agents that risk rejection.

Why Apply Through Dubai Visitor Visa

• ✅ Expert guidance on the right legal path for your case.

• ✅ Assistance with fine settlement & applications.

• ✅ High approval success rate and transparent process.

• ✅ 24/7 customer support until your case is resolved.

Conclusion & CTA – Make Your Status Compliant Today

UAE amnesty programs give people a chance to start fresh, but waiting for them is risky. With fines at AED 50/day in 2026, the safest way is to settle your status now.

✨ Apply today with Dubai Visitor Visa to regularize your stay, settle fines, and avoid penalties—our team ensures a smooth, legal, and stress-free process.