Daijiworld Media Network- Riyadh

Riyadh, Jul 29: In a move aimed at easing the burden on foreign visitors, Saudi Arabia has announced a 30-day grace period for individuals whose visit visas have expired, allowing them to exit the country without facing penalties. The decision, confirmed by the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), came into effect on July 26.

The grace period is applicable to all categories of visit visas, including family, tourist, business, single-entry, and multiple-entry, provided the visa expired on or before the date of the announcement. This special window is strictly intended for final departure and does not permit visa extensions or status changes. It is applicable only to those currently within Saudi Arabia.

Visitors must complete their exit procedures within 30 days from the effective date. The application process requires logging into the Absher platform, using the Tawasul service to submit a final exit request, and settling any overstay fines or fees. No extensions will be provided beyond this period, and overstaying beyond the grace period may lead to fines, deportation, or long-term entry bans.

The Saudi government has stressed full digital compliance through the Absher system, reinforcing its efforts to manage immigration effectively during peak travel periods.