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New initiative allows legal exit for visitors with expired visas in Saudi Arabia/ Image: File
TL;DR
- A 30-day grace period is now available for all types of expired visit visas in Saudi Arabia.
- The grace period starts from Safar 1, 1447 AH (July 26, 2025).
- Visitors must pay any required fees/fines and apply through Tawasul on Absher.
Saudi Arabia has announced a new grace period for visitors whose visit visas have expired. The move comes as part of a broader effort by the Kingdom to improve compliance with its residency and immigration rules, while also giving overstaying visitors a legal way to exit without additional penalties.In a statement posted on X, the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) stated that starting Saturday, July 26, 2025 (1 Safar 1447 AH), visitors who stayed beyond their visa validity will get a 30-day window to leave the country. This applies to all types of visit visas, regardless of category.The initiative was first introduced in June and now extended by the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), which is overseeing the process.
It aims to help individuals regularize their status and leave the country without facing escalated fines or legal issues.To use this grace period, individuals must follow a few steps, including paying any applicable fees and submitting their request online.
Who Can Benefit?
Anyone in Saudi Arabia on a visit visa that has already expired can apply for the 30-day exit grace period. This includes:
- Family visit visa holders
- Business visit visa holders
- Multiple-entry or single-entry visit visas
There is no restriction on visa type, as long as it's a visit visa and has expired before the grace period starts.
What You Need to Do
To take advantage of this grace period, here’s what’s required:
- Pay the necessary fees and fines: This includes any penalties for overstaying before the grace period was announced.
- Apply through Absher: Use the Ministry of Interior’s digital platform, Absher, and access the Tawasul service. Submit a request for visa extension or final exit based on your situation.
- Act within the 30-day window: The grace period begins July 26, 2025 and is valid for 30 days only. There will be no extensions beyond this period.
The Jawazat has urged all eligible individuals to make use of this time and not delay. Ignoring the grace period could lead to more fines, possible deportation bans, or other legal consequences.
Why This Matters
Saudi Arabia’s move shows a push for better immigration control, but it also offers a practical solution for visitors who may have overstayed for personal or financial reasons.
Instead of facing harsh legal actions, people now have a clear path to exit the country in a legal and organized way.This also helps reduce congestion in the system, ensuring that overstayers aren’t stuck or forced into desperate choices.
How to Access the Tawasul Service on Absher
- Log into your Absher account
- Navigate to “Tawasul” under services
- Submit your request with required documents
- Wait for the response and further instructions
Make sure your contact information on Absher is correct so you don’t miss important updates.FAQs1. What happens if I miss the 30-day grace period?You may face higher fines, possible entry bans, or other legal action. It’s best to act now.2. Can I extend my visit visa through this initiative?No, this is strictly for final departure. It's not an extension to stay longer.3. I have dependents with me, can we apply together?Yes, but each person must be included in the application. Make sure their details are submitted properly.
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