UAE’s New Visa Rules Explained – November 2022 Update
Title: UAE’s New Visa Rules: Understanding Expired and Cancelled Visas
The UAE has introduced updated visa regulations, including new grace periods for residents whose visas have expired. These changes aim to provide expatriates with more flexibility while ensuring compliance with residency laws.
Grace Periods for Expired Visas
Under the new rules, residents can stay in the country for up to 60 days initially, and a maximum of 180 days depending on their visa category, provided they renew their visa within this timeframe. This extended period allows expatriates more time to find new employment or complete necessary procedures.
Who Benefits from the 180-Day Grace Period?
Skilled professionals (first and second level under MOHRE classification)
Students who have completed their studies
Golden Visa holders and their family members
Green Visa holders and their family members
Widows or divorcees
Who Gets a 90-Day Grace Period?
Property owners in the UAE
Skilled professionals under the 3rd level MOHRE classification
Other Grace Periods:
60 days for standard residencies
30 days for other visa categories
Dependents of skilled workers are granted 60 days
The extended grace period allows individuals who may have lost employment to find new opportunities without immediately leaving the country.
Changes to Freehold Visas
Freehold visas now have a validity of 2 years, reduced from the previous 3-year period. This change also affects applicants who are partners in mainland companies and their dependents.
Overall, these reforms provide more clarity and flexibility for expatriates while encouraging timely visa renewals. Residents are advised to plan accordingly and utilize the grace periods effectively to avoid fines or other complications.
Title: Why MoHRE Will Fine Companies in 2023
The UAE government’s Emiratisation policy aims to increase the participation of Emiratis in the private sector and support their career growth. Through this initiative, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) encourages companies to create job opportunities for UAE nationals, building a skilled and sustainable workforce.
Starting 1st January 2023, companies employing 50 or more professionals are required to meet the Emiratisation target of 2% in skilled jobs. Companies that fail to hire the required number of Emiratis will face a fine of AED 72,000 for every unfilled Emirati position.
The Ministry has issued reminders to all relevant companies, highlighting that they have only 50 days left to comply. To assist organizations, MoHRE offers support packages and incentives under the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis).
MoHRE emphasized:
“We are committed to developing the UAE labour market in partnership with the private sector, enhancing the business environment, and attracting companies, investors, entrepreneurs, and talented professionals from around the world, particularly in strategic sectors.”
Complying with Emiratisation requirements is not only mandatory but also beneficial for private sector companies, helping them strengthen their workforce while contributing to the nation’s long-term economic development.
