The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has launched a two-month amnesty program starting on September 1, 2024, offering a lifeline to Indian nationals who have overstayed their visas in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. This program provides a window of opportunity for these individuals to either depart the country or regularize their residency status.
The Consulate General of India (CGI) in Dubai has released an advisory detailing the rules and regulations for participating in the amnesty program. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Returning to India:
* Individuals wishing to return to India can apply for an emergency certificate, which can be obtained free of charge at the Consulate. Facilitation counters will be set up at the Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Awir Immigration Centre in Dubai. These counters will be operational from September 2, 2024, between 8 am and 6 pm.
* Applicants can collect their emergency certificates the day after submitting their application between 2 pm and 4 pm from the Consulate General of India in Dubai.
Regularizing Residency Status:
* To regularize their residency status, applicants can apply for a short validity passport at any BLS center in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. No prior appointment is required.
* The details of BLS centers can be accessed on the Consulate’s website: https://www.cgidubai.gov.in/page/passport-services/
* To facilitate the process, BLS centers will be open on all Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm throughout the amnesty period.
Contact Information:
* For any queries regarding travel document procedures, individuals can contact the mobile number 050-9433111 between 8 am and 6 pm.
* They can also reach out to the PBSK helpline at 800-46342 (available 24/7) or contact points at the Indian Community Association for guidance. Contact details for the Indian Community Association are available on the Consulate website.
This amnesty program provides a much-needed relief for Indian nationals facing visa issues in the UAE. The Consulate General of India in Dubai is committed to assisting them through this process. It’s advised that individuals who are eligible for the amnesty program take advantage of this opportunity to resolve their residency status.
