The Pakistani Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai have announced extended support and services for Pakistani nationals in the UAE in light of the country’s new visa amnesty scheme.
Starting September 1 and running through October 31, 2024, the amnesty scheme is designed to assist residents with expired visas in either legalizing their status or returning to Pakistan without facing penalties. This initiative, launched by the UAE government, offers undocumented residents, including tourists and those who have overstayed their visas, an opportunity to regularize their stay or exit the country without incurring future travel bans.
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In response, the Pakistani diplomatic missions have adjusted their operations to provide maximum assistance to the Pakistani community in the UAE. A statement from the missions highlighted their dedication to supporting the UAE government’s amnesty efforts, encouraging all eligible Pakistani nationals to utilize the scheme fully.
“The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai are offering comprehensive support to Pakistani nationals living in the UAE to help them take full advantage of the UAE government’s amnesty scheme,” the statement said.
To handle the anticipated increase in applicants, the Pakistani missions will remain open on Saturdays until the end of October 2024. Services provided will include the renewal and issuance of National Identity Cards (NICs), passport processing, attestation services, and the issuance of out-passes or emergency travel documents for those lacking valid passports.
This support is especially important given the large Pakistani expatriate community in the UAE, which is the second-largest in the Emirates, with around 1.7 million residents. The amnesty scheme is expected to offer significant relief to those struggling with expired visas, allowing them to either regularize their status or return to Pakistan without facing legal repercussions.
The diplomatic missions reaffirmed their commitment to assisting the Pakistani community during this crucial period. “The Embassy and Consulate General of Pakistan remain fully committed to supporting our fellow Pakistani nationals during this time,” the statement concluded.
