UAE Announces Visa Amnesty: Pakistani Nationals Urged to Take Advantage of Opportunity

UAE Announces Visa Amnesty: Pakistani Nationals Urged to Take Advantage of Opportunity; Consular Services Extended

Pakistani nationals living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are being strongly encouraged to utilize the UAE government’s newly launched visa amnesty scheme, aimed at helping individuals legalize their residency status. This amnesty program, which began on September 1, 2024, will continue until October 31, 2024, providing a crucial opportunity for many to rectify their visa situations.

Extended Consular Services

To assist Pakistani nationals during this period, both the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai are extending their operating hours. For the duration of the amnesty, these missions will remain open on Saturdays, ensuring that residents have ample time to access essential consular services. This extended schedule will facilitate the following:

• Renewal or Issuance of National Identity Cards: Pakistani citizens needing to renew or obtain new national identity cards can do so with ease during the extended hours.
• Passport Services: Individuals requiring passport renewals or new issuances will be accommodated, ensuring their travel and identification needs are met.
• Attestation Services: Various documents requiring official attestation can be processed, supporting residents in their legal and administrative requirements.
• Emergency Travel Documents: For those without valid passports, outpass or emergency travel documents will be issued to facilitate their return to Pakistan.

Government Support and Commitment

The Pakistani missions in the UAE have expressed their full support for the UAE government’s amnesty initiative. In a statement released on Monday, they emphasized their dedication to assisting Pakistani nationals in taking full advantage of the scheme. The missions have called upon all eligible Pakistani residents to utilize this opportunity to address and resolve their visa issues.

“The Embassy and Consulate General of Pakistan remain fully committed to supporting fellow Pakistani community members during this period,” the statement read. “We urge all eligible Pakistani nationals to take advantage of this opportunity offered by the UAE government to regularize their status.”

Significance for the Pakistani Community

Pakistani nationals are the second-largest expatriate community in the UAE, following Indian nationals. Out of the UAE’s total population of approximately 9.7 million, about 1.7 million are Pakistani residents. The country has seen significant migration from Pakistan, with more than 230,000 Pakistanis arriving in 2023 alone in search of better job prospects and living conditions.

The visa amnesty scheme represents a vital chance for many Pakistani residents to address any irregularities in their residency status and continue their lives in the UAE with renewed legal standing. By offering extended consular services, the Pakistani missions are providing essential support to help their citizens navigate the amnesty process effectively.