Understanding the Exit Reentry Visa Rules in Saudi Arabia
Introduction
Navigating the regulations surrounding exit reentry visas is crucial for expatriates in Saudi Arabia. Here’s a breakdown of the rules and exceptions:
3-Year Ban for Violations
- Expatriates failing to return within the exit reentry visa’s validity face a 3-year ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia.
- Decision No. 825, issued in 1395, imposes a fine of SR 10,000 for contract violations alongside the ban.
- The ban begins two months after the exit reentry visa’s expiry date.
Exceptions to the Rule
- The ban doesn’t apply if the same employer issues the visa to the same employee.
- Additionally, if the previous employer provides a No Objection Certificate (NOC) endorsed by the Chamber of Commerce and MOFA, the ban is waived.
Dependent Iqama Exemption
- Dependents holding Iqamas in Saudi Arabia are exempt from the 3-year ban for moving without a final exit.
- Permanent family visas or family visit visas can be applied for without facing this ban.
Converting Exit Reentry Visa
- Unfortunately, there’s no direct method to convert an exit reentry visa to a final exit visa while outside Saudi Arabia.
- However, for dependents, the family head can cancel their Iqamas at Jawazat and reapply for permanent family visas, circumventing the ban.
Entry on New Visa Types
- Expatriates with ban violations face restrictions on certain visa types:
- Work Visa: Not Allowed
- Hajj Visa: Allowed
- Umrah Visa: Allowed
- Permanent Family Visa: Not Allowed
- Family Visit Visa: Not Allowed
- Business Visa: Not Allowed
- Tourist Visa: Not Allowed
Travel to Other GCC Countries
- No hindrance exists for expatriates traveling to other GCC countries on work visas.
- While a GCC-wide ban for expatriates has been proposed, it’s yet to be implemented.