How to Issue a Final Exit or Vacation Exit Visa in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide
Table of Contents
How to Issue a Final Exit or Vacation Exit Visa in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide
Why Exit Visas Are Necessary ?
In Saudi Arabia, expatriates under the Kafala (sponsorship) system are required to obtain an exit visa to legally leave the country. This ensures that expatriates settle any financial or legal obligations, such as debts or fines, before departing. There are two main types of exit visas: Final Exit Visas for permanent departures and Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visas for temporary leaves.
Types of Exit Visas in Saudi Arabia
- Final Exit Visa
This visa is issued when an expatriate leaves Saudi Arabia permanently, usually after completing their work contract. The expatriate must leave the country within 60 days of receiving the visa. Re-entry to Saudi Arabia is not possible unless a new visa is obtained. - Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visa
This visa is for expatriates leaving Saudi Arabia temporarily, often for vacations or family visits. It allows re-entry to the country within a specified period, typically between 1 and 6 months.
Requirements for Issuing Final Exit or Vacation Exit Visas
For Final Exit Visa:
- Sponsor Approval: The employer or family head must approve the application.
- Valid Iqama: The expatriate’s Iqama (resident permit) must be valid. Expired Iqamas need to be renewed before applying for a final exit visa.
- Clear Financial Obligations: All debts, including loans and utility bills, must be settled.
- No Legal Cases: The expatriate must not have pending legal cases.
- Settlement of Property: Ownership of cars or properties must be transferred or settled.
For Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visa:
- Sponsor Approval: The sponsor must authorize the leave.
- Valid Iqama: The Iqama must remain valid for the entire travel period.
- Specify Return Date: The expatriate must return within 1 to 6 months as per the visa
Issuing Exit Visas Through the Absher Portal
Both Final Exit Visas and Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visas can be processed via the Absher portal:
- Log in to Absher at https://www.absher.sa
- Navigate to “Services” under the Passports section.
- Select the expatriate for whom the visa is being requested.
- For Final Exit Visa, confirm and submit the application, then pay any applicable fees.
- For Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visa, specify the duration and complete the application.
- Print the visa for use during travel.
You can also download Absher Mobile Apps
- For Android: Download from Google Play Store
- For iPhone: Download from the App Store
or visit this link to read in detail how abshar app works
Iqama Validity and Expiry
Iqama validity typically lasts for one year, after which it must be renewed. Employers are responsible for renewing the Iqama before it expires, but it’s advisable for workers to stay informed to avoid any fines or complications.
- Iqama Expiry Penalties: If an Iqama is not renewed before the expiration date, the first offense results in a SAR 500 fine, and the second offense incurs a SAR 1000 fine. Continued non-renewal may lead to deportation.
Dependent Exit Visa Issuance for Re-Entry and Final Exit
In Saudi Arabia, a family head under the sponsorship system can issue Dependent Exit/Re-Entry Visas or Final Exit Visas for their dependents (spouse or children). This process can be managed through the Absher portal, allowing the family head to control their dependents’ visa processes.
Steps to issue visas for dependents:
- Log in to Absher using the family head’s credentials.
- Go to the Passports section and select the dependent.
- Choose either the Dependent Exit/Re-Entry Visa or Final Exit Visa option.
- Submit the application and pay the required fee.
- Once approved, print the visa for travel purposes.
Difference Between Final Exit Visa and Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visa
Purpose:
- Final Exit Visa: Permanent departure.
- Vacation Exit/Re-Entry Visa: Temporary exit and re-entry within the visa duration.
Duration:
- Final Exit Visa: Requires expatriates to leave within 60 days.
- Vacation Exit Visa: Allows return within 1 to 6 months.
Return:
- After a Final Exit Visa, the expatriate cannot return without a new visa.
- The Vacation Exit Visa permits re-entry within the specified period.
Conclusion
Issuing a Final Exit or Vacation Exit visa is necessary for expatriates to leave Saudi Arabia, whether temporarily or permanently. These visas can be easily processed through the Absher portal with the sponsor’s approval. Family heads can also issue exit visas for their dependents, ensuring a smooth process for expatriates planning to travel or leave the Kingdom.
Disclaimer :
The information provided in blog articles and how-to guides on the LinkArabia website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For more information , please read linkarabia disclaimer policy.