A Race Against Time: UAE's Amnesty Deadline Looms

 

As the 31 October 2024 deadline for UAE's amnesty program approaches, a wave of uncertainty washes over the thousands of residency violators who have stepped forward to rectify their status. While the initiative has been a beacon of hope, concerns remain about whether two (2) months is sufficient time for all to comply.

Obstacles to Rectification

Several significant hurdles have impeded the process for many who wish to stay:

1. Job Market Challenges: While some companies have offered support, job mismatches and delays have hindered smooth transitions. 
2. Passport Issues: Expired or lost passports require renewal or replacement, a time-consuming process. (Thanks to UAE government -- the minimum passport validity is reduced to one month. Read related article here.)
3. Academic Credentials: Obtaining attested academic transcripts, especially for those who have lost or misplaced them, can be a lengthy and costly endeavor. 
4. Financial Constraints: Many amnesty seekers lack the financial resources to navigate the process, particularly if they are unemployed or underemployed. (Thanks to UAE government -- many fines are waived. Big relief! Thanks to kind-hearted, compassionate people who silently share their blessings to help those who badly need resources, without big talk and show.)
5. Health and Mobility Issues: Some individuals with health problems face additional challenges in accessing necessary services and completing the required procedures. 
6. Legal Issues: Those with outstanding legal issues, such as unsettled credit card loans, may face additional hurdles in rectifying their status.
   
   

The Need for Extension

Given these obstacles, many are calling for an extension of the amnesty deadline. Ambassador Alfonso Ver, head of the Philippine missions in the UAE, has expressed a similar sentiment, citing the 2018 extension as a precedent.

According to GMA News Online (Jojo Dass, 19 October 2024) --

'We’re expecting more will be going home. In fact, we may have two flights next week", said Ver, explaining that many are still out there hoping for an extension as was the case back in 2018

However, recent reports suggest that an extension may not be forthcoming.

GMA News Online wrote --

"With only two weeks remaining before amnesty ends, Ver and Consul General Marford M. Angeles renewed their call to eligible Filipinos to avail of the program in light of a recent announcement by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, confirming that there will be no extension of the amnesty period."

Alternative Solutions for Amnesty Seekers

For those who cannot secure employment before the deadline, alternative visa options / suggestions could provide a lifeline:

• Freelance Visa: While a viable option, the cost and processing time may be prohibitive for many.
• Jobseeker Visa: A short-term jobseeker visa with relaxed eligibility criteria could offer a temporary solution.
• Seasonal Work Permits: Opportunities in the retail and hospitality sectors, particularly during peak seasons, could provide a source of income and legal status.

Empowering Amnesty Seekers

To further assist amnesty seekers, the following initiatives could be considered:

• Simplified Business Startup Procedures: A streamlined process for starting small businesses, especially for knowledge workers, could empower individuals to become self-employed. (For example -- they can be offered a package in business setting up with visa good for 3 years and a virtual office, with some value add-ons for an affordable amount of AED500/month, for a year. Perhaps some incubators can help.)
• Enhanced Support Services: 24/7 access to support services, including legal aid and counseling, would be invaluable.
• Community Volunteerism: Encouraging community members to volunteer their time to help amnesty seekers navigate the process would alleviate the burden on government agencies.
• Centralized Job Board: A dedicated job board could facilitate matching job seekers with employers, streamlining the hiring process.

As the clock ticks down, it feels good to know that authorities and stakeholders work together to ensure a smooth and compassionate transition for all amnesty seekers.

We praise the UAE government for this lifeline given to amnesty seekers with many fines waived and assistance assured. We pray for the leaders and all those who make this possible and smooth, to receive more heavenly blessings.

May they consider extending the deadline or implementing alternative solutions so many more individuals can rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the UAE's economy.

I passionately 'move my mountains' so to speak, by faith every moment of my life, and it is my fervent prayer that every person losing hope find light along the way, the soonest time possible. May all keep hoping, and may their stories end up as narratives of triumph.

As Samuel Smiles said,

Hope is like the sun, which, as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us. 

---

Image: This blogger's design