Abu Dhabi, Jun 20: Widows and divorced women residing in the UAE can soon apply for a one-year visa extension, it was announced on Tuesday. In the latest of a series of changes to visa legislation, the UAE Cabinet adopted the decision to grant these women and their children a visa extension option for one year from the date of the divorce or the death of the spouse.
"The decision grants widows and divorced women and their children a one-year residence without the need for a sponsor. It aims to give women the opportunity to adjust their social and economic status," the Cabinet said.
The decision takes into consideration the humanitarian conditions of widows and divorcees, and facilitates their stay in the country after the loss of the head of the family. "It also aims to maintain family stability and social cohesion, and affirms the UAE's position as a welcoming country to all nationalities in line with its history and values of extending a helping hand," the Cabinet said.
The resolution will be implemented in the fourth quarter of this year.
Currently, women sponsored by their husbands have to leave the country in the event of a divorce. In cases of a husband's death, women can stay till the remainder of their residency visa validity.
Social workers and legal experts have lauded the move, saying it would bring relief to hundreds of women residing in the UAE.
"I have dealt with such cases and this Cabinet decision will act as a balm to those women in distress. This will be a great relief for widowed or divorced women, who find themselves in a helpless situation. It will give them enough time to adjust and decide their future and that of their children," Abu Dhabi-based social worker M.M. Nasar Kanhangad said.
Ashish Mehta, founder and managing partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates, called the decision an "extremely important one for common expats in the UAE". "It will address concerns of women who may find themselves in a state of shock in the event of a sudden death or divorce. It gives them the confidence to consider their options and take a well-informed decision.
"The decision offers hope to these women, as their children will be able to continue their education in the country.
"This announcement shows the UAE's big heart and is testament to the fact that the government's decisions are based on humanitarian grounds."
The decision grants widows and divorced women and their children a one-year residence without the need for a sponsor. It aims to give women the opportunity to adjust their social and economic status.
The resolution will be effective as of the fourth quarter of this year and is part of the continuous efforts to develop government decisions and legislations that cater for larger segments of UAE's residents and visitors and meets their main needs.
The decision takes into consideration the humanitarian conditions of widows and divorcees, and facilitates their stay in the country after the loss of the head of the family. It also aims to maintain family stability and social cohesion, and affirms UAE's position as a welcoming country to all nationalities in line with its history and values of extending a helping hand.
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