أسئلة وأجوبة
How can an investor exit the UAE with unpaid Free Zone fines and limited funds?
Dear Lawyers,
I am an investor and have a fine exceeding 10k. I applied for an exit permit under the current amnesty, but it was not approved. I was advised to cancel the facility card.
To do so, I need to cancel the license and pay the immigration card fine, which has been expired since September 2023. My company is a Free Zone company in Shams with three visas under the license. I am willing to return home with an exit permit.
However, I don’t have enough money—only a small amount that is not sufficient to cover all the fines and visa cancellation fees. Free Zone costs are much higher than those in the mainland.
Please advise on the best option I should follow to exit.
Dear Questioner,
Quick Steps for Exit:
1. Follow Up on Exit Permit: Contact authorities for an update on your application.
2. Negotiate Fines: Ask for a waiver or reduction of fines due to your financial situation.
3. Cancel Facility Card and Visas: Contact SHAMS to inquire about canceling your facility card, license, and visas, mentioning your financial constraints.
4. Explore Payment Plans: Request a payment plan if fines cannot be waived.
5. Look for Financial Support: Reach out to local charities for assistance.
6. Plan Your Exit: Outline steps to settle fines, cancel visas, and secure your exit permit.
7. Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and agreements.
By following these steps, you can work towards a successful exit under the current amnesty.
Welcome,
- Exit Permit: If your exit permit has not been approved yet, follow up with the relevant authorities under the current amnesty program, which may include partial waivers of fines.
- Cancel Facility Card and Licenses: You can cancel your facility card, license, and immigration card, but you may need to pay off any fines. Try negotiating with the Freezone to reduce fines or agree on a payment plan.
- Closing Freezone Company: Since Freezone costs are higher, consider closing the company to save costs, but ensure fines are settled first.
- Next Steps: Follow up on your exit permit application, contact the Freezone to cancel the licenses, and explore payment options for any fines.
Our office specializes in legal advice related to immigration and business matters, and we’re happy to assist you in navigating these processes or negotiating fines.
We are honored to provide you with legal support. For further inquiries about your topic, you can come to our office or contact us via phone, WhatsApp, or email.
Hello,
I fully understand the challenges you are facing in your current situation. Given that you have outstanding fines exceeding AED 10,000 and you wish to leave the country with an exit permit, it is advisable to follow the following steps:
- Contact the Free Zone Authority:
Contact the Free Zone Authority to which your company belongs directly. Explain to them your current financial situation and your desire to cancel the establishment card and associated visas. They may have special procedures or facilities for investors in your situation.
- Request for payment facilities or reduction of fines:
Inquire from the Free Zone Authority or the relevant authorities about the possibility of paying fines in installments or obtaining discounts based on your financial situation. Some authorities may provide facilities in special cases.
- Contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs:
Contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai to explain your situation and request assistance in obtaining an exit permit. They may have solutions or exceptions for similar cases.
For assistance, please contact us via phone or WhatsApp at [---------].
Dear Questioner,
Thanks for your inquiry!
As an investor, you have the option to apply for a temporary exit permit under the current amnesty program.
However, if your exit permit is not approved, you may need to cancel your facility card, license, and immigration card in order to leave the country.
To cancel your facility card, you will need to contact the relevant free zone authority and follow their procedures for cancellation. This may involve paying any outstanding fines or fees.
To cancel your license and immigration card, you will need to contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate where your company is registered.
They will provide you with the necessary forms and procedures to cancel your visa and immigration card. This may also involve paying any outstanding fines or fees.
If you are unable to afford the fines and fees, you may need to seek assistance from your embassy or consulate in the UAE. They may be able to provide you with financial assistance or advice on how to proceed.
It is important to note that leaving the country without properly canceling your visa and immigration card may result in future immigration and legal issues. Therefore, it is recommended to follow the proper procedures for cancellation before leaving the country.
Please feel free to contact us at [----------] for further guidance.
Greetings,
