UAE amnesty programme: Indian mission in Dubai announces measures to facilitate

The Consulate General of India in Dubai has implemented several measures to assist Indians in taking advantage of the twomonth amnesty scheme commencing on Sunday in the United Arab Emirates UAE This scheme allows foreigners residing illegally in the country to either regularise their residency status or depart without incurring penalties PTI reportedThe amnesty programme covers a wide range of visa categories including expired residency and tourist visas as well as individuals without any documentationHowever those who entered the country illegally are excluded from the programmeIndividuals opting to adjust their status under the programme can have their fines and fees waived and also have the option to leave the country without facing a travel banUnder the scheme applicants who wish to return to India may apply for an Emergency Certificate EC while those intending to regularise their residency status can apply for a shortvalidity passportApplicants can request an EC at the Consulate free of charge Facilitation counters will be established at the Consulate General of India and at the Al Awir Immigration Centre in Dubai The facilitation counter at the Consulate will be operational from Monday the Indian Consulate in Dubai announced in a statement on SaturdayOnce applicants submit their EC applications they can collect the certificates from the Consulate General of India in Dubai the following day Additionally applicants can visit any of the BLS centres in Dubai and the Northern Emirates as walkins to apply for shortvalidity passports with no prior appointment requiredBLS centres in Dubai and the Northern Emirates will remain operational on all Sundays from 0900 to 1700 hours during the amnesty period to accommodate the needs of applicants wishing to benefit from the amnesty scheme the consulate statement addedThese measures are part of the Consulates efforts to streamline the amnesty process and provide clear avenues for individuals to either regularise their stay or exit the UAE smoothly By setting up dedicated facilitation counters and ensuring accessibility through BLS centres the Consulate aims to make the amnesty scheme as effective and userfriendly as possible for those affectedThe twomonth amnesty scheme represents a significant initiative by the UAE authorities to address the issue of illegal residency offering a structured and penaltyfree pathway for individuals to resolve their immigration status The Consulates proactive steps in supporting this programme demonstrate a commitment to assisting Indian nationals in navigating the complexities of immigration regulations in the UAEFor further information and assistance individuals can visit the Consulate General of India in Dubai or contact the designated BLS centres during the operational hours specifiedWith PTI inputs