The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has rolled out a unified nationwide fine of AED 50 (USD 13.60) per day for any foreign visitor or resident who remains in the UAE beyond the validity or cancellation of their visa.
The policy, announced on 11 February 2026 and endorsed by both the ICP and Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), replaces the previously fragmented structure of fines that differed by visa category and emirate. Tourist, visit and residence visa penalties have now been consolidated under a single framework. Immigration platforms have been updated to reflect the revised structure, enabling travellers to check and settle outstanding fines instantly via the ICP or GDRFA applications using UAE Pass.
The update delivers greater predictability for global mobility managers. Organisations can now forecast compliance costs using a uniform daily rate for employees and dependants across all emirates. However, the previous 10-day grace period for most tourist visas has been withdrawn, meaning penalties are imposed immediately after visa expiry. Individuals overstaying beyond 30 days must also secure an exit permit (out-pass), typically costing between AED 250 and AED 300, prior to departure.
For businesses and individuals requiring operational support in managing these revised regulations, VisaHQ provides a consolidated digital platform via its UAE portal. The service offers updated visa guidance, simplified application processing and real-time tracking tools designed to help users maintain compliance and mitigate overstay penalties.
Enforcement mechanisms are also being strengthened. Smart-gate systems at UAE airports now identify travellers with unpaid fines, while employers are automatically notified to submit absconding reports if sponsored employees fail to regularise their status. Immigration specialists caution that repeated overstays may result in departure restrictions, entry bans, or blacklisting across the broader GCC region.
HR departments are advised to implement proactive measures, including automated alerts well in advance of visa expiries, verification of fine balances through the updated digital dashboards at least 48 hours before travel, and encouraging business travellers to allow additional time in-country should technical issues temporarily delay file clearance. The ICP has confirmed that humanitarian fine exemptions remain possible, though applications must be submitted online with supporting documentation such as medical records or evidence of flight cancellations.
