Visa violations typically involve breaking the rules set by UAE’s immigration authorities. Examples include visa expiry, overstaying beyond the allowed duration, or using fake visas.
Visitors often unintentionally overstay their visas, not realising that there is no grace period for visit visas, which could lead to fines of Dh50 per day. Resident visa holders, however, are given a grace period after their permit expires or is cancelled. The length of this grace period depends on the visa category and can range from 30 days to six months. If expats exceed the grace period, they will incur a daily fine of Dh50 for overstaying.
Authorities do recognise that visa violations can sometimes occur due to complicated situations, such as misunderstandings of immigration rules, paperwork delays, or unforeseen personal circumstances.
Fine waiver service by the UAE allows individuals to request a reduction or complete exemption from financial penalties imposed for violations of immigration laws. This guide will help you through the process of applying for a visa fine waiver in Dubai.
Click here to learn more about the Dubai residence visa, the minimum salary, and eligibility to sponsor a family in the UAE.
Eligibility for a visa fine waiver
Visa fine waivers are not available to everyone. If your employer has reported you for absconding, you can resolve the matter by clearing your record with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or by going to the immigration office.
— The fine incurred should be Dh4,000 and above.
— Individuals who have overstayed tourist, visit, or residency visas.
— Individuals who overstayed their visa due to unforeseen circumstances, such as health emergencies, job loss, or other unexpected events, and can provide valid documentation, may be eligible for a waiver.
— Individuals facing significant financial difficulties, making it impossible to pay the fines can apply for a waiver.
Require documents
1. A copy of the violator’s passport that will have the visa page
2. A letter outlining the reasons for the violation and the inability to pay the fine must be submitted. Individuals should include all supporting evidence for the stated reasons to strengthen their case.
3. Any other documents requested by the Fines Committee.
Service steps
According to Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website, individuals can visit Amer Service Centre for the services.
1. Visit the nearest Amer Customer Happiness Center
2. Obtain the automatic turn ticket, then wait.
3. Submitting the application that meets all conditions and documents (if any) to the customer service employee.
4. Pay the service fee (if any).
Service fee: The service fee is around Dh390, although this amount may vary depending on the different Amer centres.
You can also apply for a visa fine waiver in person at a GDRFA office. Visit the nearest GDRFA office in Dubai with your documents and submit your application along with the required paperwork. The team will review your submission and may request additional information or clarification. If the sponsor is an individual, a fee of Dh15.75 will be charged.
The service available at General Administration – Al Aweer Centre
Monday to Thursday: 7.30am – 7.00pm
Friday: 7.30am – 12.00am and 2.30pm – 7.00pm
Once the application and all the required documents are submitted, the GDRFA will review the case and may contact you for further information. The authorities did not specify the expected completion time of the process, which depends on the complexities of each case.