Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh

Riyadh, Sep 20: As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms, women aged 21 and above can now apply for passports and travel internationally without requiring consent from a male guardian, a royal decree first issued in 2019 and still in force. The move marks a significant shift in the kingdom’s long-standing travel restrictions for women.

The reform also extends to wider civil rights, allowing women to register births, marriages, and divorces directly with the Civil Status Department, obtain family documents like children’s national IDs, and act as legal guardians for minor children in several administrative matters. These changes have eased women’s access to essential services including education, healthcare, and family travel arrangements.

Women below the age of 21, however, still need guardian approval for passports and travel except in special cases such as married women under 21, students on government scholarships abroad, or employees travelling for official duties. Other scenarios, like leaving detention centres or protection shelters, may require additional court orders.

Women over 21 can apply for passports via the Jawazat (Passports Department) or the Absher e-portal, providing valid ID, photographs, and proof of address. Fees can be paid online or at authorised centres, but travellers are advised to check foreign visa rules and airline requirements.

Officials describe these reforms as “irreversible steps” toward gender equality and increased participation of women in public and economic life, though advocates stress the need for consistent enforcement across the country.