A woman from Kerala, stranded in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after her visa expired, has returned home safely. This 37-year-old woman had gone to Sharjah to work, but got into trouble as the agent demanded a huge amount in the name of visa renewal. With legal intervention and the help of social workers, he could be brought back to India.
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How did the woman get trapped and what was the whole matter?
The woman, a resident of Arimpur in Thrissur district, had gone to Sharjah about two years ago on a housemaid visa. When her visa expired, she was not able to renew it because her agent demanded 9,000 dirhams (about Rs 2.2 lakh) for it.
Due to his inability to pay the money, his legal situation deteriorated. After this, his sponsor lodged a complaint against him for ‘absconding’. This is considered a serious immigration offense in the UAE. She was detained by Sharjah Police when she went to buy goods at a local supermarket.
Legal help and return home process
After the woman was taken into custody, her family in Kerala contacted Manalur MLA Murali Perunelli. After this the matter reached UAE based Yab Legal Services who talked to the local administration.
Paperwork: Law firm CEO Salam Pappinissery coordinated with Sharjah Police and immigration officials.
Outpass: Within just two days, an exit pass was arranged for the woman.
Fine disposal: Immigration penalties and absconding complaints were resolved through the legal process.
Return: After all the procedures were completed, the woman was sent back to Kerala by Air India Express flight.
Important rules for those living in UAE
This incident is a lesson for Indians living in Gulf countries. Now strict action is being taken in UAE for violating visa rules and fine rates are also fixed.
New rules and penalties (by February 2026):
Rules Details Overstay fine 50 dirhams (about Rs 1150) per day Exit permit 250-300 dirhams for overstaying more than 30 days Grace period No relaxation on tourist visa, fine from the next day of expiry
Experts say that before trusting any agent, you should check your visa status online. To avoid any kind of ‘absconding’ complaint, it is better to renew the visa in time or leave the country. Staying illegally can lead to huge financial losses and legal troubles.
