Minimum Validity of Iqama for EXIT visa issuance- Jawazat update 2025

The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) in Saudi Arabia has specified that a foreign worker's residency permit (Iqama) must have a minimum validity of 30 days to issue a final exit visa.

Key Points Jawazat update 2025:

• Iqama Validity Less Than 30 Days: If an Iqama has less than 30 days remaining, it must be renewed before applying for a final exit visa.

• Iqama Validity Between 30 and 60 Days: A final exit visa can be issued, but its duration will match the remaining validity of the Iqama.

• Iqama Validity of 60 Days or More: The final exit visa will be issued with a duration of 60 days.

  
  

Application Process:

Employers and heads of families can issue final exit visas for their workers and dependent family members through "Absher," "Absher Business," and the "Muqeem" portal. This electronic service is free of charge.

Examples:

1. Iqama Validity of 25 Days: An employer must renew the worker's Iqama before applying for a final exit visa, as the remaining validity is less than 30 days.

2. Iqama Validity of 45 Days: A final exit visa can be issued with a validity of 45 days, matching the remaining Iqama validity.

3. Iqama Validity of 75 Days: A final exit visa will be issued with a standard validity of 60 days, as the Iqama has more than 60 days remaining.

   
   

Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smooth and compliant process for obtaining a final exit visa in Saudi Arabia.

In Saudi Arabia, expatriates intending to permanently depart the Kingdom are required to obtain a Final Exit Visa. This visa signifies the termination of their residency status and grants permission to leave the country.

Key Considerations:

• Employer Approval: Securing a Final Exit Visa necessitates the consent of the employer, who plays a pivotal role in the application process.

• Prerequisites:

  • Passport Validity: The expatriate's passport must be valid for at least 60 days.

  • Iqama Status: The residency permit (Iqama) should be valid for a minimum of 30 days. If the Iqama's validity is less than 30 days, it must be renewed prior to applying for the Final Exit Visa.

  • Financial Obligations: All outstanding fines, including traffic violations, must be settled.

  • Vehicle Ownership: The expatriate should not have any registered vehicles under their name.

  
  

• Validity Period: Once issued, the Final Exit Visa is valid for 60 days (or remaining days per Iqama validity, read above), during which the expatriate must depart Saudi Arabia. Failure to leave within this period may result in fines.

  
  

Important Considerations Before Departure:

• Bank Accounts: It is advisable to withdraw all funds and close bank accounts prior to processing the Final Exit Visa.

• Employment Contracts: Ensure that employment contracts are properly terminated, and any end-of-service benefits are settled.

• Personal Belongings: Arrange for the shipment or sale of personal belongings, as baggage allowances may be limited.

Re-Entry into Saudi Arabia:

After exiting on a Final Exit Visa, individuals may return to Saudi Arabia on a new visa without issues, provided all previous obligations were fulfilled.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smooth departure and arrival process and compliance with Saudi regulations.

Final exit visa minimum validity of Iqama