Residency in the UAE comes with a set of rules and regulations that residents must follow to maintain their legal status. Among these regulations are those concerning the allowed duration for residents to stay outside the country. In this article, we will explain the allowed duration for residents to leave the UAE and the reasons that may allow them to stay outside the country for longer than the specified period.
1. Allowed Duration for Staying Outside the UAE
According to UAE laws, residents are permitted to stay outside the country for up to six consecutive months without losing their residency. If a resident exceeds this period without returning to the UAE, their residency visa may be canceled, requiring them to obtain a new visa if they wish to return.
2. Exceptions to the Six-Month Rule
Certain circumstances and reasons may allow residents to stay outside the UAE for longer than six months without losing their residency. These exceptions may require prior approval from UAE authorities and the submission of supporting evidence. Below are some of these situations:
- Long-Term Medical Treatment
If a resident requires long-term medical treatment outside the UAE, they can provide documented medical reports to obtain an exception allowing them to stay outside the country for more than six months. - Academic Studies
Residents pursuing academic studies abroad can request an exception from the six-month rule, provided they submit official documents from the accredited educational institution proving their ongoing studies. - Working for a UAE Company Abroad
If a resident is assigned by their UAE-based company to work abroad, they can submit documents detailing the assignment and duration of their stay abroad, which may allow for an extended stay outside the country. - Accompanying a Sick Relative
If the resident is accompanying a close relative receiving treatment outside the UAE, they can submit medical reports proving the need for their presence with the patient, which may grant them an exception. - Humanitarian Reasons
In exceptional cases involving humanitarian reasons, such as emergencies or family crises, residents can submit an application for an exception with a detailed explanation of the reasons and evidence.
3. Procedures for Obtaining an Exception
To obtain an exception from the six-month rule, the resident or their sponsor must submit a formal application to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in the emirate where the residency was issued. The application should include:
- A cover letter explaining the specific reason for staying outside the country for a longer period.
- Supporting documents, such as medical reports, letters from educational institutions, or letters from the employer.
- Written approval from the sponsor if required based on the case.
After reviewing the application and submitted documents, the authorities will decide whether to grant the exception.
4. Legal Consequences of Staying Outside the UAE Beyond the Allowed Duration
If a resident exceeds the allowed duration of staying outside the UAE without obtaining an exception, their residency will be automatically considered void. This means that upon returning to the UAE, they will need to apply for a new visa from scratch, requiring them to meet all necessary conditions and submit the required documents.
Conclusion
The UAE imposes strict regulations regarding long-term stays outside the country for residents. The allowed duration is six consecutive months, but exceptions can be obtained for justified reasons such as medical treatment, studies, work assignments abroad, or humanitarian circumstances. It is crucial for residents to be aware of these regulations and to take appropriate measures if they need to stay outside the UAE for a longer period. Complying with the laws and procedures can help you avoid legal consequences and maintain your residency in the UAE.