Relief For Visit Visa Holders: Saudi Arabia Announces 30-Day Grace Period For Final Exit

Saudi authorities have announced an initiative that allows individuals with expired visit visas to apply for a short-term extension to finalise their exit from the Kingdom.

The program, set to begin on Muharram 1, 1447 AH (June 27, 2025), grants a 30-day grace window for eligible visitors to correct their legal status and depart the country without facing further legal action.

According to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), the extension will apply to all categories of expired visit visas, regardless of the type or issuing reason. The decision aims to ease the departure process for those whose stay has unintentionally exceeded the permitted duration.

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To take advantage of this opportunity, applicants are required to settle all due fees and applicable penalties. Requests for the extension must be submitted through the Tawasul service on the Ministry of Interior’s Absher electronic platform.

Authorities stressed that this measure is part of a broader effort to uphold public order and maintain the integrity of the Kingdom’s immigration system. It also follows recent advisories issued to Hajj pilgrims, reminding them to respect visa deadlines and depart the country in a timely manner following the completion of their pilgrimage.

Officials reiterated the importance of compliance with Saudi regulations, urging all visitors to use this temporary window to avoid potential legal consequences and exit the country smoothly and legally.

Here’s What Indian Travellers Need to Know About the Saudi Visa:

If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit Saudi Arabia, it’s important to understand the visa requirements and application process before booking your trip.

Saudi Arabia is not visa-free for Indian nationals. All Indian travellers must obtain a visa before entering the Kingdom. There are several options available depending on the purpose of your visit, including e-visas, tourist visas, business visas, and those issued through embassies or authorised visa centres.

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Expedited processing is available, with e-visas typically issued within 12 to 72 hours under urgent service. This is ideal for last-minute travellers, provided all documents are in order and the application is complete.

Applying for a Saudi visa has become easier with the introduction of the online application system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official Saudi visa portal.

2. Fill out the online form with accurate personal and travel information.

3. Upload the required documents, including passport copies and photographs.

4. Pay the visa fee using the secure online payment gateway.

5. Once processed, the visa will be sent to your registered email address.

Applicants are advised to double-check all details and requirements before submission to avoid delays or rejections.