By UAE’s Visa Amnesty: A Lifeline for Pakistani Nationals
The Pakistani Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai have announced extended services to assist Pakistani nationals residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the country implements a new visa amnesty program. The initiative, which began on September 1 and will continue until October 31, 2024, offers a critical opportunity for residents with expired visas to either legalize their status or return to Pakistan without incurring penalties.
Key Details of the Amnesty Program
The UAE government introduced this amnesty scheme to help undocumented residents, including tourists and absconders, regularize their stay or exit the country without facing future travel restrictions. This initiative is particularly significant for the large Pakistani community in the UAE, which comprises around 1.7 million residents, making it the second-largest expatriate group in the Emirates.
Pakistani Missions Extend Support
In response to the amnesty program, Pakistani diplomatic missions in the UAE have adjusted their operations to provide maximum assistance to the Pakistani community. The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai have announced that they will remain open on Saturdays until the end of October 2024 to accommodate the anticipated influx of applicants.
Services Offered
During this period, the missions will offer various services, including the renewal and issuance of National Identity Cards (NICs), passport processing, attestation services, and the issuance of out-passes or emergency travel documents for those without valid passports. This support is aimed at ensuring that all eligible Pakistani nationals can fully benefit from the UAE government’s amnesty program.
A Crucial Opportunity for the Pakistani Diaspora
The amnesty scheme provides much-needed relief to Pakistani residents facing challenges due to expired visas. It allows them to either regularize their status or return to Pakistan without the burden of legal consequences, such as fines or future travel bans.
Commitment to the Community
The Pakistani Embassy and Consulate General have reiterated their commitment to supporting the Pakistani community during this critical period. In a statement, the missions emphasized their dedication to helping Pakistani nationals navigate the amnesty process effectively, ensuring they can take full advantage of this opportunity.
