Jawazat Saudi Arabia: How to Exit and Re-Enter the Kingdom Without Issues

Saudi Arabia has strict immigration and residency laws, and expats working in the Kingdom must comply with regulations set by the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat). One of the most important aspects for foreign workers is obtaining an Exit/Re-Entry Visa when traveling outside Saudi Arabia temporarily. Failure to follow the proper procedures can result in fines, travel bans, or even deportation.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about exiting and re-entering Saudi Arabia smoothly.

Understanding the Exit/Re-Entry Visa System

An Exit/Re-Entry Visa is mandatory for expatriates in Saudi Arabia who want to leave the country temporarily and return without canceling their Iqama (residency permit). This visa is issued through Jawazat and the Absher platform, with specific validity conditions and requirements.

Types of Exit/Re-Entry Visas

Jawazat issues two types of Exit/Re-Entry Visas:

1. Single Exit/Re-Entry Visa – Allows a one-time departure and return within the validity period.

2. Multiple Exit/Re-Entry Visa – Allows multiple exits and re-entries within a specified period.

Validity Period

• Single Exit/Re-Entry Visa: Valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on employer approval.
• Multiple Exit/Re-Entry Visa: Usually valid for three to 12 months but requires additional fees.

How to Apply for an Exit/Re-Entry Visa?

The application process for obtaining an Exit/Re-Entry Visa is now digital and can be done through the Absher platform or by the employer’s HR department. Here’s how:

Applying via Absher (For Dependents or Domestic Workers)

1. Log in to Absher: Visit the Absher.sa portal and log in with your credentials.

2. Go to ‘My Services’: Navigate to ‘Passports’ and select ‘Visa Services.’

3. Choose the dependent: If you are applying for a family member or domestic worker, select their name.

4. Select Visa Type: Choose between Single or Multiple Exit/Re-Entry Visa.

5. Confirm and pay the fee: Payment must be made through Sadad or online banking.

6. Submit the request: Once approved, the visa details will be available in Absher.

Applying via Employer (For Employees)

1. Submit a request to HR: Employees must request their company’s HR or sponsor to apply for the visa.

2. Payment of Fees: The company or employee pays the visa fee.

3. Approval from Jawazat: The employer applies through Muqeem (Jawazat’s online system).

4. Receive visa details: Once processed, the visa details will appear in Absher and Muqeem.

Fees for Exit/Re-Entry Visa

• Single Exit/Re-Entry Visa: SAR 200 (for up to 2 months) + SAR 100 for each additional month.
• Multiple Exit/Re-Entry Visa: SAR 500 (valid for three months) + SAR 200 for each additional month.

Essential Requirements for Exiting Saudi Arabia

Before leaving the Kingdom, ensure that you meet these conditions to avoid issues at the airport:

1. Valid Iqama: Your residency permit (Iqama) must be valid during your exit and return.

2. Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

3. No Pending Fines: Any unpaid traffic violations, government fines, or pending dues should be cleared.

4. Employer Approval: Your employer must approve the visa request (for workers under sponsorship).

5. Exit Within Visa Validity: Leaving the country after the visa expires may result in penalties or travel bans.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Issue 1: Visa Expiration While Abroad

If your Exit/Re-Entry Visa expires while you are outside Saudi Arabia, you may face difficulty returning. Here’s what you should do:

• Your employer must apply for an Iqama Renewal & Exit/Re-Entry Extension through Absher or Jawazat.
• The extension request must be made before the visa expires.
• If the visa expires and is not extended, you may need to apply for a new work visa from your home country.

Issue 2: Travel Ban Due to Pending Fines

Before traveling, check if you have any pending government fines through Absher. Unpaid fines may prevent you from boarding your flight.

Issue 3: Employer Refusal to Approve Exit/Re-Entry

Some employers may delay or deny visa approval. If this happens:

• Communicate with your employer to understand the reason.
• Check for contract obligations that may affect approvals.
• Seek help from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MOHRSD) if your employer is unreasonably withholding approval.

Re-Entering Saudi Arabia Without Issues

Returning to Saudi Arabia is usually smooth if all requirements are met. Here’s what you need to ensure before re-entry:

1. Valid Exit/Re-Entry Visa: The visa must still be valid on the date of your return.

2. COVID-19 and Health Regulations: Stay updated on any health or vaccination requirements (if applicable).

3. Employer Notification: Inform your employer or sponsor about your return in advance.

4. Iqama Validity: Your residency permit should still be valid.

What If You Face Issues at Immigration?

• If you face problems at the airport, visit the nearest Jawazat office for assistance.
• If your visa details do not match immigration records, contact your employer for clarification.
• If you are denied entry, contact your employer or sponsor to check for administrative errors.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the Jawazat Exit/Re-Entry Visa process in Saudi Arabia requires attention to detail and compliance with the latest regulations. By ensuring your Iqama is valid, clearing fines, obtaining employer approval, and planning your travel within the visa validity, you can avoid unnecessary delays or complications. Always check the Absher portal for updates and consult your employer for any visa-related concerns.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth departure and return to Saudi Arabia without issues. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Re-entry/Exit Jazawat Saudi Arabia

1. Can I extend my Exit/Re-Entry Visa while abroad?

Yes, your employer can request an extension through Absher or Jawazat before the visa expires.

2. What happens if I overstay my Exit/Re-Entry Visa?

Overstaying can result in fines, travel bans, and possible deportation. You may need to apply for a new work visa if your visa expires.

3. Can I leave Saudi Arabia without an Exit/Re-Entry Visa?

No, expatriates under sponsorship must have a valid Exit/Re-Entry Visa to leave and return.

4. How can I check my Exit/Re-Entry Visa status?

You can check your visa status through the Absher or Muqeem portal.

5. What if my employer refuses to issue an Exit/Re-Entry Visa?

You can escalate the issue to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development for resolution.