ABU DHABI: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has reduced the passport validity requirement for violators seeking to amend their status, from six months to just one month. This applies during the grace period that started on September 1st and will run until October 31st, 2024, aimed at assisting violators in rectifying their status.
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The adjustment is designed to make it easier for violators to either leave the country without receiving an entry ban or to secure a job and stay. Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of ICP, explained that this change applies to residency and visa violators, children born abroad, and those on administrative lists. The new rule eliminates the need for violators to renew their passports if they have less than six months of validity, addressing the lengthy process of passport renewal through embassies.
This decision, alongside the fine exemptions offered during the grace period, aims to encourage violators to take advantage of this opportunity to amend their status. The updated passport validity requirement is applicable only during this grace period and will help violators avoid delays caused by passport renewal processes.
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Major General Al Khaili emphasized that the ICP is committed to addressing the challenges violators face during this period and providing solutions that fall within the law. The Authority is actively communicating with the target group, understanding their needs, and devising solutions to facilitate the status amendment process.
He urged violators to contact the ICP’s call centre to raise any concerns or challenges they may encounter, so the Authority can study them and provide appropriate resolutions.
