Saudi Arabia Clarifies Exit/Re-Entry Visa Rules for Expats

In a recent announcement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has provided much-needed clarity on its visa regulations for expatriates.

The official statement underscores that foreign residents possessing exit/re-entry visas can return to the kingdom, given that their visas remain valid until the expiration date.

Smooth Re-entry Process for Visa Holders

The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia has taken steps to streamline the re-entry process for foreign individuals holding exit/re-entry visas.

These visa holders have the option to electronically extend their visas while being abroad. This can be achieved by making the necessary payments through either the Absher platform or the Muqeem portal.

Validity Requirements for Passports and Visas

It is essential to note that expatriates seeking exit/re-entry visas should ensure that their passports remain valid for at least 90 days.

Additionally, a minimum validity of 60 days is required for those applying for the final exit visa. These stipulations are crucial to facilitate a smooth visa issuance process.

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Limitations on Visa Conversion

The General Directorate of Passports has made it clear that it is not permissible to convert an exit/re-entry visa into a final exit visa if the individual is currently located outside the borders of Saudi Arabia. This regulation underscores the importance of adhering to the correct visa type while abroad.

Diverse Expat Community in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia stands as a significant destination for migrant workers, particularly from various Asian countries. The latest census data, reported by the KSA General Authority for Statistics in May, reveals that the total population of the kingdom reached 32.2 million.

Among these, foreigners constitute approximately 13.4 million individuals, accounting for 41.5 per cent of the population.

Predominance of Asian Nationals

The census further highlights the prominence of Asian nationals within the expatriate community of Saudi Arabia. These individuals from three distinct countries collectively contribute to over 42 per cent of the entire foreign population in the kingdom.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s recent visa clarifications aim to enhance transparency and facilitate smoother processes for expatriates, as the country continues to host a diverse and vibrant international community.