Saudi Grants 30-Day Grace to Expired Visit Visa Holders

Saudi Arabia Opens Final Exit Window

The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has launched a new initiative. To allow holders of expired visit visas to leave Saudi Arabia legally. Starting 1 Muharram 1447 AH, which corresponds to June 26, 2025, the Kingdom is offering a 30-day grace period to foreign visitors with expired visas. This move allows individuals to regularize their status and exit the country without facing detention or legal complications.

Jawazat confirmed that the initiative applies to all types and categories of visit visas, including both single-entry and multiple-entry permits. The primary goal of the grace period is to provide an orderly and humane way for overstayers to depart the Kingdom while also reducing the burden on enforcement operations.

Tawasul Platform Enables Visa Extension

Eligible visitors must pay all applicable penalties and fees before requesting their exit. The process is fully digital and runs through the “Tawasul” service available on the Ministry of Interior’s “Absher” platform. Once applicants clear their outstanding dues, they can apply for an extension that grants them legal permission to leave Saudi Arabia within the 30-day period.

Jawazat urged all affected individuals to act quickly, stressing that the grace period is temporary. Officials warned that the opportunity will not be extended beyond the announced deadline. They also reminded applicants to check the Absher platform regularly for updates and instructions related to their visa status and exit process.

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Overstayers Face Strict Penalties After Deadline

Saudi Arabia’s move comes after authorities detained thousands of individuals for residency and visa violations in recent weeks. The grace period is part of a broader campaign to enhance compliance with residency laws and facilitate voluntary departures. By offering this limited-time solution, Saudi officials hope to ease pressure on immigration facilities and encourage overstayers to resolve their legal status peacefully.

The government expects a high response from overstayers who want to avoid arrest or blacklisting. This grace period provides a rare chance to exit the Kingdom without severe legal consequences.