Understanding exit and re-entry visa rules is essential if you plan extended travel outside Saudi Arabia.
The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) recently issued important clarifications regarding visa validity, especially for stays longer than one year.
Here’s what you need to know.
Can You Get an Exit and Re-Entry Visa for More Than One Year?
The short answer: No, not initially.
Jawazat confirmed that:
- A multiple exit and re-entry visa is usually issued for three months to one year, depending on employer approval.
- The maximum initial duration is 12 months (one year).
However, following the proper procedures, you can renew the visa for another year.
This means you could stay abroad for up to two years if everything is done correctly.
What Are the Requirements for a Visa Extension?
If you want to extend your stay, you’ll need to meet a few conditions:
1. Active Iqama
Your residency permit (Iqama) must stay valid during the entire visa period, including any extensions.
2. Employer or Sponsor Approval
Your employer or sponsor must handle the application through platforms like Absher or Muqeem.
3. Visa Renewal Before Expiry
If you’re already outside Saudi Arabia, your employer must extend the visa before it expires.
Important: Your Iqama must still be valid at the time of the request.
4. Special Cases (Students, Family Members)
Students studying abroad and certain other cases may get additional extensions with valid documentation, such as a certificate of enrollment.
Important April 2025 Update: How Visa Duration is Calculated
Jawazat recently clarified how visa validity works:
- The visa validity (for single or multiple-entry visas) is three months from the date of issuance.
- The actual stay duration is calculated from the travel date, not the date the visa was issued.
- Multiple-entry visas must still not exceed one year unless properly extended.
Example:
If you get your visa on April 1st but travel on May 15th, the stay duration starts from May 15th, not April 1st.
Quick Summary: Exit and Re-Entry Visa Durations
| Visa Type | Standard Maximum Duration | Extension Allowed | Total Possible Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Exit/Re-Entry | 30–90 days | Yes | Varies case-by-case |
| Multiple Exit/Re-Entry | 6–12 months | Yes (one year) | Up to two years |
Why Is It Important to Follow the Rules?
Failing to extend your visa or overstaying can lead to:
- Heavy fines
- Travel bans
- Problems re-entering Saudi Arabia in the future
Always check with your employer or sponsor and monitor your visa status regularly on Absher to avoid any issues.
FAQs About Exit Re-Entry Visa Rules
Q1: Can I apply for a two-year exit and re-entry visa directly?
A: No. You can apply for up to one year first, then renew for another year.
Q2: Can my visa be extended while I’m outside Saudi Arabia?
A: Yes, but your Iqama must be valid, and your employer must request it through Absher or Muqeem.
Q3: What happens if I overstay my exit re-entry visa?
A: You may face heavy fines, a travel ban, or difficulty re-entering Saudi Arabia.
In Saudi Arabia, you cannot initially get an exit and re-entry visa for more than one year.
However, renewing it properly allows you to enjoy up to two years abroad without complications.
Stay informed, stay compliant, and travel safely!
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Owais Qarni is a Co-Founder, Chief Editor, and Author of Saudi Scoop. He is passionate about tech, cars, and traveling. A Dreamer, Explorer & Optimist!
