UAE says no further extensions to visa amnesty
Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship says amnesty for workers will come to an end this week
The UAE, a major hub for migrant labourers, will end an amnesty for workers who entered the country without a visa or overstayed their work permit on Thursday, with no further extensions planned.
The UAE's Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship on Thursday said the amnesty, that was extended for a further month in October, will end on November 30.
"The amnesty initiative ends on November 30. No more extensions for the scheme," an official from the authority was quoted as saying in the Khaleej Times.
Authorities told the paper that they will then step up campaigns to crack down on those still living illegally in the country.
Last month's extension came as centres continued to see "heavy demand" by people wishing to take advantage of the amnesty.
The government previously said those who entered the UAE illegally or overstayed their visas and who come forward before the deadline will not be fined or charged if they choose to leave the country voluntarily.
The amnesty also grants those looking for employment a six-month visa to find a job. It excludes, however, those who are "blacklisted" or with legal cases pending.
The UAE, the fourth largest oil producer in the OPEC oil cartel, is home to a huge workforce from Asia and Africa.
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