Return to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after being deported is not merely a matter of booking a flight. The approach and strict conditions of re-entry are determined under UAE immigration laws concerning the nature of the deportation-whether the deportation was made because of a criminal case, some civil matter, or extradition.
In this article, eligibility for a deportee to return to the UAE will be explained with respect to the laws, requirements, and documentary evidence for the return of deportees. This is of particular interest regarding those who were previously deported but have a job offer in the UAE.
What Does UAE Law Say About Re-Entry After Deportation?
Article 18(1) of the Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021 Concerning the Entry and Residence of Foreigners, states that a person who is previously deported from the UAE should not re-enter the United Arab Emirates without prior approval of the President of the UAE. The law states as follows:
“The Foreigner who has previously been deported may not return to the State without a permission from chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.”
So when a person is deported-from whatever cause-that person cannot come back into the UAE without him or her receiving special permission from the government beforehand.
Re-Entry After Deportation!
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Why Deportation Happens in the UAE
There can be a number of reasons for deportation from the UAE.
Reasons for deportation include:
- Participating in a criminal case (theft, assault, drug-related charges)
- Financial disputes or bounced cheque cases
- Violations of immigration laws (such as overstay visas)
- Extradition by way of other legal issues with another country
If anyone was extradited due to a financial dispute that escalated into a physical altercation, it is likely that the UAE authorities issued a formal deportation order, making them ineligible to return without prior approval.
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Is It Possible to Return to the UAE After Deportation?
Yes, but this requires prior permission from the UAE government. Deportation itself tends to be permanent unless some special decision is made.
An application for re-entry into the UAE must adhere to the official process and evidence along with valid reason for entry.
How to Apply for Re-Entry Permission After Deportation?
It is important to make a request to the relevant authorities when a deported person intends to come back to the UAE.
Steps to follow:
-
Submit a Re-Entry Application
The applicant must prepare and submit an application for re-entry to any of the following authorities:
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP)
- UAE Ministry of Interior
The application must justify the re-entry request, like a valid job offer from a UAE company or family reunification.
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Attach Supporting Documents
The application should be supported by relevant documents, including:
- Valid passport copy
- Person’s old UAE Emirates ID (if any)
- Copy of a deportation or extradition order
- A very thorough explanation of the purpose of return
- A job offer letter or an employment contract from a UAE company
- Character certificate or clearance from the country of current residence (if applicable)
-
Wait the Government Decision
When the application is finally submitted, it will be reviewed by the officials and may take time to get the decision. The result of any application is not assured as such final decisions are purely at the discretion of the Chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.
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Can a Lawyer Help with the Re-Entry Process?
Yes, the hiring of a licensed legal consultant or immigration lawyer in the UAE is substantially recommended.
Such professionals could:
- Review your case history
- Draft the re-entry request in accordance with the laws
- Liaise with the right UAE government departments
- Ensure these are filled out correctly and completely
Adhere to legal procedures, thus improving the chance of approval.
What Happens If the Request Is Denied?
In case your application is rejected, the individual would not legally be allowed to enter UAE, and any attempts to do so would be punished with fines or arrest or perhaps further ban. The judgment of UAE authorities should be respected and there should not be any unlawful entry into the country.
If the situation changes or if better supporting documents come forth, one might file a new application later in time.
Conclusion
According to Article 18 of the Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021, the foreigner who has previously been deported may not return to the State without a permission from the Chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security. Whether the deportation was due to a financial issue, criminal matter, or any other reason, a legal re-entry is only possible through a formal application process.
A proper request with supporting documents and a clear reason to return-say, a job offer-might likely improve chances of approval-by working with proper legal consultant.
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How HHS Immigration Lawyers in Dubai Can Assist You
At HHS Dubai Lawyers, we practice immigration law in the UAE, including complex cases involving deportation and re-entry procedures. Whether you are someone who has been deported from the UAE or know one that has and wishes to return legally, we can:
- Review your legal history
- Take you through the entire re-entry process
- Prepare and submit formal applications
- Communicate with the UAE authorities on your behalf
Let us guide you to understand UAE legal laws with confidence and clarity. Call HHS Labour Lawyers in Dubai today for a consultation with our immigration and legal experts.