What is the rule if my visa or residence permit ends?
Article 5 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners requires a foreigner to leave the UAE on the expiry or cancellation of a visa, unless a residence permit has been obtained, and to leave on cancellation or expiry of a residence permit unless it is renewed.
The periods in which you must leave, and any extension, are set by the Executive Regulation.
What is the fine for overstaying?
Article 11 provides an administrative fine for each day a person stays illegally after the permitted periods end. The amount is set by a Cabinet resolution.
Article 13 allows the Chairman or an authorised representative to exempt a person from all or part of the fine.
When does overstay become a criminal matter?
If the fine is not paid. Article 29 provides imprisonment not exceeding three months or a fine not exceeding AED 4,000, and the court may order deportation.
Cancellation of a visa or permit by the Chairman is also possible at any time for public interest or violations (Article 10).
Can I return after I leave or am deported?
A foreigner who has been deported may not return without permission from the Chairman (Article 18(1)).
One who is expelled because the permit expired or was cancelled may not be given another entry permission unless the conditions and procedures for entry are met (Article 18(2)).
What should I do first?
Check your exact dates and fines
Do not rely on informal advice about the amount.
Ask about an exemption
Article 13 allows the Chairman to waive all or part.
Settle the fine before it becomes a case
Non-payment can lead to prosecution.
Do not travel without checking
Unpaid fines can lead to detention at the airport.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Is overstaying a crime?
The overstay itself carries an administrative fine for each day (Article 11). Failing to pay the fine is the offence under Article 29.
Can the fine be waived?
The Chairman or an authorised representative may exempt all or part of it (Article 13).
Will I be banned?
A person who has been deported may not return without permission (Article 18). Ask a lawyer how it applies to your case.
Does a new born child need a residence?
Under Article 12 a foreigner must establish the new-born's residency within four months, with a daily fine for delay.
Related guides
Immigration & Visa Offences overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewIllegal Entry
What the law says about entering the UAE unlawfully, helping others to do so, and the consequences.
Read the guideVisa Fraud
What the law says about forging or using a forged visa or residence permit, the penalty, and why deportation is not optional.
Read the guideSources
Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 (Entry and Residence of Foreigners), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active and last updated on 16 September 2021. The Arabic text prevails over translations.
This page is general information, not legal advice.