Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced measures to address the status of foreign nationals holding expired visas who have been unable to leave the Kingdom due to ongoing regional circumstances.
The ministry said the measures apply to holders of all types of visit visas, as well as Umrah, transit, and final exit visas that expired on or after 25 February 2026 (8/9/1447 AH).
Visa Extension Option
According to the ministry, sponsors may apply to extend expired visit visas on behalf of their guests through the Absher platform. Extensions will be granted until 18 April 2026 (1/11/1447 AH), upon payment of applicable statutory fees.
To request an extension, the sponsor must log in to their Absher account, navigate to “My Services,” then “Passports,” and select “Tawasul” to submit a new request, specifying the relevant department and service before uploading the required documents.
Fee-Free Departure Option
The ministry also stated that eligible visa holders may depart through international border crossings directly, without renewing their visas or paying any fees or overstay fines.
Travelers wishing to depart under this exemption are not required to take any advance steps. The ministry said all departure procedures will be completed at the border crossing, describing the process as straightforward.
Deadline and Warning
The ministry urged all beneficiaries to depart before 18 April 2026, warning that those who remain in the Kingdom beyond that date will be subject to applicable regulations and penalties.
The ministry stated that the measures were issued in implementation of royal directives from the Kingdom’s leadership.