The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) of the United Arab Emirates, has apprehended six thousand illegal settlers in the UAE for visa violations during an inspection campaign which commenced in January 2025.
Reports indicate that the UAE carried out 270 inspection campaigns following the expiration of an amnesty program organized by the UAE in 2024 to help residents address their visa issues and ensure compliance with the country’s immigration laws.
The deportation of about 93% of the violators caught during the inspection campaigns titled ‘Towards a safer society’ that took place throughout January are underway.
Director-General of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), Major-General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili noted that the inspection campaigns will still carry on in full force. “Inspection campaigns will continue, so we advise the public not to take such violations or violators lightly,”
The ICP official engaged by journalists also noted that proper measures have been put in place to ensure the smooth operation of the inspection campaign and won’t need any modifications for visa renewal.
The United Arab Emirates 2024 amnesty scheme provided all settlers with a four-month grace period from September 1 to December 31 last year, violators were given the opportunity to either leave the country without receiving a re-entry ban or to secure a new work contract and remain in the UAE legally.
