UAE permits re-entry for residents with expired visas, waives fines until March 31

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced a temporary rule allowing some residents of the United Arab Emirates to re-enter the country even if their residency visas expired while they were abroad. The measure will remain in effect until March 31, 2026, and also waives related fines for eligible residents.

The rule applies to foreign residents whose visas expired while they were outside the UAE. Under the temporary measure, they can return to the country without applying for a new entry permit.

Re-entry allowed until March 31

Authorities said the rule covers residents whose visas expired on or after February 28, 2026, while they were outside the UAE.


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Eligible residents can re-enter the country and then complete the process to renew or regularise their residency through immigration authorities.

The measure also removes penalties linked to visa expiry during the period residents were abroad. This means individuals will be able to return and restore their residency status without paying fines related to overstaying outside the country.

Residents must enter the UAE by March 31, 2026, to benefit from the relief measure. After this date, standard immigration rules will apply again.

Documents required for travel

Travellers are expected to carry their expired Emirates ID or a digital copy of their residence visa when checking in with airlines.

Authorities said the step is intended to help residents who were stranded abroad and to ease travel disruptions affecting the region.

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Once they return, residents can complete the necessary procedures with immigration authorities to renew and regularise their residency status. The temporary relief comes as the UAE introduces flexible visa measures and other steps in response to travel disruptions across the Middle East.