Ukrainians in UAE can get one-year residency visa, says embassy

Ukrainian citizens can reside in the UAE for one year without the need for a sponsor under a scheme created to help nationals of countries facing wars or crises.

In a statement, the Embassy of Ukraine in the UAE confirmed that citizens can opt for a one-year residency permit through Tasheel centres from April 12.

Stranded tourists who arrived in the UAE before the crisis will also be able to stay in the country for up to one year without being subject to overstay fines.

“Ukrainians who have been in the UAE for more than 30 + 10 days are exempt from paying fines for overstaying,” the statement said.

The procedure follows a 2018 resolution issued in the UAE to grant citizens of crisis-stricken countries and war zones an extendable one-year permit, offering them a chance to improve their living conditions until they are ready to return home.

“We truly thank the UAE government and leadership for their solidarity and support for Ukrainian nationals trying to improve their living conditions before returning home,” the embassy added.

Last month, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) confirmed that Ukrainian citizens will continue to have a visa-free entry upon arriving to the UAE.

“The UAE provides critical services to Ukrainian nationals in the UAE who require assistance, in coordination with the Embassy of Ukraine in the UAE,” the ministry had said.