If you’re worried about how to reduce overstay fine in Dubai due to a canceled visa, travel disruptions, or other unforeseen circumstances, you’re not alone. This guide will help you understand how to reduce or waive overstay fines and provide options for extending your stay legally.
Overstay Fines in UAE
Overstay fines are penalties imposed when you remain in the UAE beyond your visa’s expiration date without renewing it.
Overstay Fine Reduction Fees
Overstay fine reduction processing fee is AED 100.
Here’s a breakdown of how these fines work:
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Visit and Tourist Visas Overstay Fines:
You get a 10-day grace period after your visa expires. If you don’t extend or exit the country during this period, fines are as follows:
| Visa Type | Daily Fine | Grace Period |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | AED 200 | 10 days |
| Visit Visa | AED 200 | 10 days |
| Transit Visa | AED 200 | Immediately after visa expiry |
Resident Visas Overstay Fines:
After your visa expires, you have a 30-day grace period to change your status, renew your visa, or leave the UAE. Fines are incurred only after this period:
| Visa Type | Daily Fine | Grace Period |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Visa | AED 125 | According to contract terms |
| Residence Visa | AED 125 | 30 days |
- AED 25 per day from the second day onwards
- AED 50 per day if overstaying beyond six months
- AED 100 per day if overstaying beyond one year
Change Visa Status in UAE
According to Ministerial Resolution No. 377 of 2014, visa holders can change their visa status within the UAE without exiting the country. This applies to all visa types and must be done before the current visa expires to avoid fines.
The visa status can be changed to a tourist or residency visa only if all the necessary terms and conditions are fulfilled and the payment is made. This process must be completed before the applicant’s current visa expires to avoid incurring any fines.
Extension Options to Avoid Overstay Fines
There are several legal ways to extend your stay in the UAE, which can help you avoid overstay fines:
1. Oman Visa Run
For tourists from countries eligible for a visa on arrival, an Oman visa run is an option. This involves leaving the UAE, traveling to Oman, and re-entering the UAE to obtain a new visa. This can be done either by air or road and is a quick way to extend your stay.
2. In-Country Visa Extension
The in-country visa change process allows you to extend your visa without leaving the UAE. You can apply for a 30-day or 60-day extension. This convenient process eliminates the need for travel and can be done from the comfort of your home.
3. Airport-to-Airport Visa Change
For those already in the UAE, the airport-to-airport visa change service allows you to briefly leave and re-enter the country to obtain a new visa. This option is ideal for extending your stay for job hunting, family commitments, or business purposes.
How to Apply for a Visa Fine Waiver
If you overstay due to circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for a fine waiver. Please note that the approval or rejection of your appeal is solely at the discretion of the GDRFA authority. Here are the steps:
Requirements for Visa Fine Waiver Application
1. Judicial or Legal Causes:
- Petition letter from the sponsor company or applicant
- Relevant court or police documents
2. Health Causes:
- Petition letter from the company, sponsor, or applicant
- Medical report in Arabic from a recognized health authority
3. Personal Sponsorship (Family):
- Petition letter from the sponsor
- Passport and Visa copy of sponsor
- Sponsor’s salary certificate and supporting documents
- Any document that support the cause of overstaying
4. Company Sponsorship:
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID
- Petition letter with company stamp
- Company trade license and establishment card
5. Delay in Passport Issuance:
- Petition letter from the sponsor or applicant
- Letter from the embassy or consulate regarding the delay
- Establishment Card and Trade License for companies
- Labour contract for personal sponsorship
6. Sponsor Death:
- Petition letter from the sponsor or applicant
- Death certificate and related documents
Mandatory Documents
- Original Emirates ID and passport copy of the sponsor
- Applicant’s passport and visa details
- Visa copy with file number showing fines
- New approved e-visa or cancellation paper if applicable
- Letter of exemption or NOC in Arabic requesting a fine reduction
Overstay Fine Reduction Application Status Check
- Submit your application to the Decision Committee Counter.
- The committee will review and process your application.
- If approved, it will be forwarded for final approval.
- If rejected, notes will be updated in the inquiry system, and you may need to resubmit with complete documents.
Processing Time
The process typically takes about seven working days.
UAE Visa Overstay Amnesty
The UAE will offer a 2 month amnesty 2024 starting in September for individuals with expired residency visas, allowing them to regularize their status or leave the country without fines. Announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, this grace period aims to reflect the country’s values of compassion and tolerance.
This initiative provides a crucial lifeline for many, including job seekers who overstayed and those misled by false job promises. It offers an opportunity for those affected by financial crises or health issues to return home without the burden of fines. The decision has been welcomed by welfare organizations as a timely relief for expatriates, especially in the wake of the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to waive overstay fine in Dubai?
Apply for a fine waiver through GDRFA with a petition and supporting documents.
How much does it cost to clear overstay in Dubai?
It starts at AED 125 for the first day, then AED 25 per day, increasing to AED 50 per day after six months and AED 100 per day after one year.
How can I reduce my fines?
Apply for a fine waiver or reduction through GDRFA with supporting documents.
How to clear overstay?
Pay the fines at immigration offices or airports, and consider modifying your visa status or exiting the country.
Can visa overstay be forgiven?
Yes, in some cases, if there are valid reasons and you apply for a waiver.
What if I don’t have the money to pay an overstay fine?
Apply for a fine waiver or seek financial assistance.
Wrapping Up
Navigating the complexities of reduce overstay fine in Dubai can be challenging, but it’s crucial to understand your options and act promptly. Whether you’re dealing with an expired tourist visa or a residency visa, there are steps you can take to mitigate or waive fines, such as applying for a waiver through the GDRFA or exploring visa modification options. It’s important to gather all necessary documentation and submit your application before the situation escalates. Remember, while the process may seem daunting, timely action and compliance with UAE regulations can help you resolve the issue and avoid further penalties.
