Visa violations typically involve breaches of regulations set by UAE immigration authorities. These include visa expiration, overstaying the permitted duration, or the use of forged visas.

Visitors sometimes unknowingly overstay their stay, unaware that there is no grace period for tourist and visit visas. This oversight can result in a daily fine of AED 50.

Residency visa holders are granted a grace period after their permit expires or is cancelled. The length of this period varies depending on the visa type, ranging from 30 days to six months. If an individual remains in the country after this period, a daily fine of AED 50 is applied.

Authorities acknowledge that visa violations may sometimes occur due to complex circumstances, such as a misunderstanding of immigration rules, documentation delays, or unforeseen personal situations.

Fine waiver services in the UAE allow individuals to apply for a reduction or a full exemption from financial penalties resulting from immigration law violations.

This guide explains the steps to apply for a visa fine waiver in Dubai.

Who is eligible for a visa fine waiver?

Fine waivers are not available to everyone.

If an employer has reported an individual as absconding, the individual can resolve the issue by clearing their record through the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or by visiting the immigration department.

General application requirements include:

The fine amount must be AED 4,000 or more.

Individuals who have overstayed their tourist, visit, or residency visas in the UAE.

Individuals who overstayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, job loss, or unexpected accidents and can provide valid documentation may be eligible for a waiver.

Individuals facing serious financial difficulties who are unable to pay the fine may also submit a waiver request.

Required Documents

1. A copy of the violator's passport, including the visa page.

2. A letter explaining the reasons for the violation and the inability to pay the fine. It is recommended to attach all relevant evidence and documentation to strengthen the case.

3. Any other documents requested by the fines committee.

Steps to obtain the service

According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai website, individuals can visit an Amer center to access this service.

The steps are as follows:

1. Visit the nearest Amer Customer Happiness Center.

2. Obtain an electronic queue ticket and wait.

3. Submit the complete application along with all requirements and documents, if any, to the customer service officer.

4. Pay the service fee, if applicable.

Service Fee:

The fee is approximately AED 390, although the final amount may vary across different Amer centers.

A visa fine waiver request can also be submitted in person at one of the GDRFA offices.

To do this, visit the nearest GDRFA office in Dubai with the required documents and submit the application and necessary documentation.

The relevant team will review the case and may request further information or clarification.

If the sponsor is an individual, a fee of AED 15.75 will be charged.

This service is also provided at the General Directorate – Al Aweer Center.

Working Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM

Friday: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 7:00 PM

After submitting the application and all required documents, the GDRFA will review the case and may contact the applicant for more information.

Authorities have not specified a fixed timeframe for completing this process, as the processing time depends on the complexity of each case.