Saudi Arabia has introduced streamlined procedures for issuing Exit Re-entry Visas (خروج وعودة) through the Absher platform, allowing both employees and their dependents to apply digitally. These reforms simplify travel management while ensuring compliance with Saudi labor and immigration regulations. This guide provides detailed instructions, requirements, and practical tips for obtaining single or multiple exit re-entry visa in KSA.
Types of Exit Re-entry Visa in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi government offers two main types of exit re-entry visas:
Single Exit Re-entry Visa – Allows the holder to exit and re-enter Saudi Arabia once within the visa validity period.
Multiple Exit Re-entry Visa – Enables multiple exits and entries within the visa validity period.
Choosing the right visa type depends on your travel plans and the frequency of entry required during the validity period.
Self Exit Re-entry Visa – Employees
Employees in Saudi Arabia can now apply for a self exit re-entry visa through Absher. This procedure requires specific eligibility conditions.
Requirements for Employees
Passport validity: Minimum of 3 months beyond the visa duration.
Iqama validity: At least 3 months beyond the requested visa period.
Maximum visa duration: 30 days.
Failure to meet these requirements will prevent the system from generating a request. In such cases, employees may ask their employer to issue the visa through traditional methods.
Common Error:
“Sorry, you are not eligible to create a visa request, please contact with General Directorate of Passports.”
Select either Single or Multiple Exit Re-entry Visa.
Ensure the selected period matches the fee paid.
Click Confirm to issue the visa.
Print the visa using the available option.
Important: Travel must occur within 3 months of visa issuance. If travel plans change, cancel the visa to avoid fines.
Minimum Iqama and Passport Validity Requirements
Visa Type
Passport Validity
Iqama Validity
Self Exit Re-entry
3 months beyond visa
3 months beyond visa duration
General Exit Re-entry
3 months beyond visa
Must return 7 days before Iqama expiry
Ensuring compliance with these validity requirements is critical to prevent delays or rejection.
Single vs Multiple Exit Re-entry Visa – Considerations
Single Exit Re-entry Visa: Best for short-term travel or single trips.
Multiple Exit Re-entry Visa: Ideal for frequent travelers who may need to leave and re-enter multiple times.
Practical Tip: Choose the visa type that aligns with your travel frequency to avoid additional fees or complications.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Ineligible Request: Ensure passport and Iqama validity meet the minimum requirements.
Employer Delays: Communicate with your employer to prevent delays in approval.
Missed Travel Window: Travel must occur within 3 months; otherwise, fines apply.
Dependent Documentation: Dependents must have valid Iqama and no unpaid violations.
Status Check and Updates
After submission, applicants can check the status of their exit re-entry visa through Absher. This ensures timely planning for travel and visa issuance.
Steps to Check Status:
Log in to Absher.
Navigate to My Services > Passports > Visa Requests.
View the current status, including approval, pending, or rejected requests.
Monitoring visa status prevents last-minute travel issues.
Practical Insights for Employees and Dependents
Always maintain updated passport and Iqama.
Keep digital and printed copies of your exit re-entry visa.
Coordinate with your employer for smooth approval.
Plan travel in advance to align with visa validity.
Cancel the visa if plans change to avoid fines.
These precautions ensure hassle-free travel within Saudi Arabia.
FAQs – Exit Re-entry Visa Saudi Arabia
Q1: Can I apply for multiple exit re-entry visas simultaneously? A: Yes, employees and dependents can select multiple exit re-entry visas based on travel needs.
Q2: What is the maximum duration for self exit re-entry visa? A: 30 days is the maximum allowed for self exit re-entry visas.
Q3: What happens if my employer does not respond? A: If no response is given within 10 days, the request is considered approved.
Q4: Can a newborn dependent apply without Iqama? A: No, only dependents with valid Iqama are eligible.
Q5: How do I check the status of my visa request? A: Status can be checked through Absher > My Services > Passports > Visa Requests.
Conclusion
The Exit Re-entry Visa system in Saudi Arabia via Absher simplifies travel for employees and dependents. By understanding the requirements, procedures, and rules, applicants can obtain their visas efficiently and plan their trips without complications. Following the step-by-step instructions and adhering to validity conditions ensures a smooth exit and re-entry process.
This digital approach not only streamlines workflow but also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s modern labor reforms, providing convenience and compliance for residents across the Kingdom.
