Saudi Jawazat Explains Fines, Procedures for Final Exit Overstay

The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) in Saudi Arabia has clarified what happens when a resident with a final exit visa does not leave the Kingdom within the visa’s validity period. The announcement—shared via Jawazat’s official social channel—reinforces the importance of timely departure, valid residency documents, and the sponsor’s responsibilities. This guide summarises the rules, penalties, employer obligations, and practical steps for expatriates and sponsors to follow.

Key rule: 60 days and the SAR 1,000 cancellation charge

Jawazat confirmed that a final exit visa is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. If a resident does not depart within that window, a fee of SAR 1,000 is required to cancel the expired final exit visa. Cancellation or other exit-related procedures can only be completed if the resident’s iqama (residence permit) remains valid at the time of cancellation.

Why iqama validity matters

The iqama must be valid both when issuing and when cancelling a final exit visa. A lapsed iqama can block cancellation and other immigration procedures. If your iqama is close to expiry and you have a final exit visa, check renewal options immediately, or arrange the cancellation while the iqama is still valid.

What the final exit visa means

A final exit visa ends an expatriate’s legal right to remain in Saudi Arabia. It is used when a foreign national permanently leaves the Kingdom. Under recent labour reforms—such as provisions that stem from the Labor Reform Initiative—qualified workers with ended employment contracts may be able to apply for certain exit services through online platforms (Absher or Qiwa) if their iqama is valid and there are no outstanding legal objections from the employer. Employers retain limited time to object on legal grounds (for example, unresolved claims).

Visitors and dependents linked to a sponsor with a final exit visa

Jawazat stresses that any visitors or dependents sponsored by the expatriate who received a final exit visa remain recorded under the sponsor’s file until they also leave the Kingdom. This means the sponsor is responsible for ensuring all sponsored persons depart and settle any outstanding fines or administrative fees.

30-day grace period for expired visit visas (June 2025 update)

Separately, a new initiative introduced in June 2025 provides a 30-day grace period for holders of expired visit visas (tourist, family, or business). During this period visitors may depart without facing the usual overstay fines or an immediate entry ban, provided departure is processed through official channels and any administrative fees are cleared. Note: this grace period applies to exit only — it does not permit change of status or visa extension.

Re-entry requirements

Entry into Saudi Arabia requires a valid visa and a valid travel document (passport). Overstaying or violating immigration rules can result in fines, entry bans, or other restrictions that may prevent future travel to Saudi Arabia. Always check visa eligibility and ensure all fines and holds are cleared before seeking re-entry.

Employer duties after issuing a final exit visa

Employers are reminded that issuing a final exit visa is not the end of their responsibilities. The employer must follow up to ensure the sponsored resident actually leaves the Kingdom. If the employer cannot locate the resident, the employer should cancel the visa and, when appropriate, file an absence (huroob) report or other required documents with the relevant authorities.

Consequences of non-compliance

• Monetary fines (including the SAR 1,000 cancellation charge after 60 days).
• Potential future entry bans or restrictions.
• Administrative action such as detention, deportation, or legal proceedings in severe cases.
• Blocked government services or inability to complete final procedures until fines and dues are cleared.

Practical steps for expatriates and sponsors

If you or a sponsored resident is facing a final exit situation, follow these steps:

1. Confirm the final exit visa issue date and calculate the 60-day departure deadline.
2. Ensure the resident’s iqama is valid. If it will expire before departure or cancellation, arrange renewal immediately or contact Jawazat for guidance.
3. If the resident cannot depart within 60 days, prepare to pay the SAR 1,000 fee to cancel the expired visa. Payments and cancellations are commonly handled via official e-services.
4. Sponsors/employers should check the sponsor’s record for any visitors or dependents and arrange their exit or settlements.
5. Clear all outstanding fines, labour claims, or government dues that might block exit or cancellation.
6. If the employer cannot find the resident, cancel the visa and file an absence report (huroob) as required by Jawazat procedures.

How to use official services

Jawazat and other Saudi government services provide online platforms to check visa status, submit cancellations, and pay administrative fees. Useful official portals include:

• Absher — the Ministry of Interior’s e-services portal for residents and sponsors (visa checks, payments, some visa services).
• Qiwa — labour-related services and employer tools relevant to employment termination and related objections.
• MOI – Passports (Jawazat) — official information, contact points and sector news from the Ministry of Interior.

When to seek help

If you are unsure about deadlines, iqama status, or the payment and cancellation process, contact Jawazat or the Ministry of Interior through their official channels. Employers with unresolved disputes or claims should consult legal advice or use Qiwa/Absher employer channels to manage objections and documentation correctly.

Final reminders for the expat community

Follow these final, practical reminders:

• Track the 60-day window closely after a final exit visa is issued.
• Keep the iqama valid until the exit or cancellation is completed.
• Employers must actively ensure sponsored residents and dependents depart or take proper cancellation steps.
• Always use official portals (Absher, Qiwa, MOI) for payments, cancellations and status checks.

For the Saudi expat community, staying informed and acting promptly prevents unnecessary fines and future immigration complications. When in doubt, reach out to the official MOI/Jawazat channels listed above — early action can save time, money and legal headaches.