UAE Announces July 9 Visa Deadline for Visit Visa Holders Affected by Flight Disruptions

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has issued a deadline of July 9 for certain visit visa holders in the UAE to either adjust their immigration status or leave the country. This measure primarily impacts individuals who received temporary waivers for overstay fines due to earlier regional airspace closures and flight disruptions.

Who is affected?

The deadline specifically targets visit visa holders who benefited from an exemption on overstay fines. This exemption was granted when flight disruptions earlier this year prevented many travellers from leaving the UAE as planned. Immigration experts noted that some visitors, who might otherwise have had to depart in March, were allowed to remain for several extra months without penalty due to these exceptional circumstances.

What action is required?

Individuals falling under this category must take action before the July 9 deadline. Options include:

• Regularising their status by obtaining a new legal visa or residency permit in the UAE.
• Completing employment-related visa procedures if they have secured a job.
• Leaving the country to avoid incurring penalties for overstaying.

The ICP has clarified that this grace period is a final opportunity to resolve immigration status, as the exceptional circumstances that led to the initial relief measure have concluded.

Important Clarification

This measure does not apply to regular residence visa holders whose visas are cancelled or expire. Residence visa holders are subject to different grace periods based on their visa category and profession. The current deadline is distinct from the standard residency visa grace-period system.