New Regulation: Unpaid Traffic Fines Will Halt Visa Renewal

The Ministry of Interior has officially announced a new regulation that will affect residents who have not paid their traffic fines. According to Deputy Director-General for the Legal Council at the Ministry of Interior for Immigration, Residency and Ports Affairs, Brigadier General Dr Rashid Sultan Al Kidhr, those who have outstanding traffic violation fines will not be able to renew their residential permits.

This regulation, though just officially announced, has been in place for several months, catching some residents off guard. One resident, Ishaque Ahmed, shared his experience of being asked to pay his traffic fines before renewing his visa two months ago.

Dr Al Kidhr explained that the payment of traffic fines is now linked with the immigration department at the federal level, meaning that individuals with unpaid fines will not be able to renew their visas or engage in any other immigration-related transactions. Additionally, traffic violators will not be allowed to leave the country until their fines are cleared.

The ministry is also considering expanding this regulation to include bank defaulters, particularly credit card holders who have not paid off their debts. Dr Al Kidhr emphasized that the recovery of fines will be added to all government departments, with no one being spared.

Furthermore, individuals who fail to pay their traffic fines may also risk having their accommodation contracts cancelled. Those leaving the country will need to prove they have no liabilities at the traffic department if they have vehicles registered in their names.

This new regulation highlights the importance of clearing traffic fines promptly to avoid any disruptions to visa renewals or other government transactions. Residents are advised to stay updated on any changes and ensure they comply with all regulations to avoid any inconveniences.