Airport expected to increase its capacity to 25 million passengers annually by 2027
Dr Yousuf Al Sharif, legal adviser to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, said the authority is considering putting in place "special or pre-conditions" for jobseekers. "If pre-conditions are put in place, it will ensure that these visitors leave the country after the expiry of their visas," said Dr Al Sharif.
The tougher regulations will help the UAE authorities reduce the number of visit visa violators.
The proposal comes after the authority found out that most of the illegal residents looking to avail of the ongoing UAE visa amnesty scheme had entered the country on visit or tourist visas.
Dr Al Sharif said the authority would introduce a six-month visit visa for jobseekers after the end of the amnesty scheme. "This would give jobseekers ample time to look for jobs and avoid overstaying in the country."
According to the changes made to the job visa rules that were issued by the UAE Cabinet in June 2018, the six-month visa is granted for jobseekers who overstayed their visa but wish to work in the country. The authorities also allow individuals wishing to adjust or renew their visa to do so for a fee, without having to leave and re-enter the country.
The official said that embassies might also be obligated to bear the costs of air tickets for their citizens who overstay their visit or tourist visas. This is because of the fact that many illegal residents don't have the money to buy flight tickets to go back to their home countries, he explained.
Meanwhile, the official warned that tougher punishments, including jail, hefty fines and deportation, will be imposed on people caught violating residency laws after the end of the amnesty. "All people staying illegally should avail of this amnesty initiative to rectify their status or leave the country within the grace period that has been given to avoid facing problems."
Companies or people caught employing illegal residents will face a fine of Dh50,000 for each worker.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com
Airport expected to increase its capacity to 25 million passengers annually by 2027
Core taxi segment revenue up 15% year-on-year
The precious metal has climbed approximately 12% this year
Since last month, many residents have resorted to expensive alternatives like taxis, while others endure significantly longer travel times
In authorised school buses, drivers and nannies are trained to conduct thorough checks of the bus before locking and leaving it
Bitcoin’s scarcity remains a key driver of its value, attracting long-term investors
Plant is set to be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and Africa
The trial, the first-of-its-kind in the region, involved a small-sized drone, which can carry two passengers for up to 35km