Types of Exit Re-Entry Visas in Saudi Arabia

M. AMEENLast Updated: May 24, 2023

What is an exit re-entry visa?

An exit re-entry visa is a document issued by the Saudi Arabian government that allows a foreign resident to temporarily leave the country and then re-enter at a later date. It serves as a permission slip for residents to travel internationally while maintaining their legal status in Saudi Arabia.

Why do you need an exit re-entry visa?

You need an exit re-entry visa if you are a foreign resident in Saudi Arabia and plan to temporarily travel outside the country. Without this visa, your legal residency status may be at risk, and you could face difficulties when attempting to re-enter Saudi Arabia. It is essential to obtain an exit re-entry visa to ensure smooth travel and comply with the regulations of the Saudi government.

What are the different types of exit re-entry visas in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia offers different types of exit re-entry visas to accommodate various travel needs and they are:

Single Exit Re-Entry Visa

A single exit re-entry visa in Saudi Arabia is a type of travel document that allows a foreign resident to leave the country temporarily and then return once. It is typically issued for a specific duration, such as 30 days or 90 days, depending on the individual’s needs. This visa is suitable for residents who plan to travel outside Saudi Arabia for a short period and intend to return without multiple exits and entries during their trip.

Multiple Exit Re-Entry Visa

A multiple exit re-entry visa in Saudi Arabia is a travel document that permits a foreign resident to enter and exit the country multiple times within a specified validity period. Unlike the single exit re-entry visa, which allows only one entry after leaving the country, this visa provides flexibility for residents who need to travel frequently or have longer-term plans. With a multiple exit re-entry visa, residents can travel outside Saudi Arabia multiple times and return without the need to apply for a new visa each time, as long as the visa remains valid.

Exit Re-Entry Visa for Dependents

Additionally, there are family-based exit re-entry visas designed for dependents of residents, allowing them to travel together. The specific type of exit re-entry visa required depends on the individual’s circumstances and travel plans.

Prerequisites for Issuing Exit Re-Entry Visas

To obtain an exit re-entry visa in Saudi Arabia, certain prerequisites must be met, including:

Valid Passport: The applicant’s passport should have a validity period of at least 60 days to ensure it does not expire during travel.
No Outstanding Traffic Fines: There must be no pending traffic fines associated with the applicant’s name.
Visa Fee Payment: The visa fee should be deposited using the applicant’s iqama number, which is the resident permit issued in Saudi Arabia.
Presence in Saudi Arabia: The applicant must be physically present within Saudi Arabia during the visa application process.
Valid Iqama: The applicant’s iqama, or resident permit, must be valid and not expired.
Registered Fingerprint: To be eligible for visa issuance, the applicant’s fingerprint must be registered in the Jawazat system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia offers different types of exit re-entry visas to cater to the varying travel needs of foreign residents. The single exit re-entry visa allows for one temporary departure and return, suitable for short trips. On the other hand, the multiple exit re-entry visa provides flexibility for frequent travel or longer-term plans, allowing multiple entries and exits within a specified validity period. Additionally, family-based exit re-entry visas are available for dependents of residents. It is essential for foreign residents to understand the different types of exit re-entry visas available and choose the appropriate one based on their specific circumstances and travel requirements. By obtaining the right visa, residents can ensure smooth travel while maintaining their legal status in Saudi Arabia.

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