The UAE’s amnesty program for illegal residents is set to end tomorrow. Following this deadline, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), in collaboration with the police and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), will launch extensive operations to identify and penalize violators.
This program, which began on October 31 and was extended until the end of December, provided an opportunity for illegal residents to regularize their status or return to their home countries without penalties. After the deadline, fines and legal actions will be enforced, with inspections focusing on ensuring compliance with residency and labor laws.
New Laws and Stricter Penalties
Following amendments to labor laws in August 2024, the UAE government introduced harsher penalties for the illegal employment of workers and minors. Fines range from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million per violation and apply to the following cases:
Employing workers without proper legal permits.
Misusing work permits.
Ceasing business operations without settling workers’ dues.
Combating Fake Emiratisation
The updated law also imposes severe penalties for fraudulent employment practices, including fake Emiratisation. Employers involved in such violations face fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million, depending on the number of employees involved.
Additionally, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has the authority to settle related cases out of court upon the employer’s request, provided that at least 50% of the minimum fine is paid.
These measures reflect the UAE’s commitment to strengthening oversight of labor and immigration laws and addressing violations in these areas.
