No Curbs on Travelling soon after obtaining Exit pass, clarifies Faic

Ismail Sebugwaawo

ABU DHABI — An illegal resident can leave the country immediately after obtaining an exit pass or permit, an official from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) has clarified.

“The procedure for the exit pass takes a period from one day to one week, depending on the nature of the case,” Abdul Azeez Al Maamar, head of media relations department at the authority, told Khaleej Times on Monday.

He also confirmed that former UAE residents who left the country with an entry ban as a result of visa violations cannot make use of the amnesty scheme.

“The aim of the amnesty initiative is to rectify the status of the residency rule violators who are within the UAE. Amnesty doesn’t include people who are outside the country.” Al Maamar added.

The official was clarifying about the confusing statements on whether people earlier deported for violating residency laws can have their entry ban lifted under the amnesty scheme and apply for new visas to re-enter the UAE and look for jobs.

Meanwhile, officers at the Consulate-General of India (CGI) confirmed that they are providing air tickets to families and individuals on a case-to-case basis, depending on their economic condition. Prem Chand, consul for passport, attestation and community welfare at the CGI, said: “As the immigration offices has a pre-requisite of additional 10 days before residents to exit the country, we are waiting to gain clarity on the same before issuing the tickets.” However, if people want to leave immediately, they are free to do so.

He added that the Indian consulate has been issuing up to 50 emergency certificates per day, since the beginning of amnesty. A total of 300 travel documents have been issued by the mission since August 1.