Saudi Arabia: No refunds for canceled exit and re-entry visas

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has clarified the rules regarding the cancellation of exit and re-entry visas, stating that fees paid for these visas are non-refundable, regardless of whether the visa is canceled or not. This announcement follows a public inquiry from a resident seeking clarity on visa procedures as many expatriates prepare for summer travel.

According to Jawazat, if an exit and re-entry visa is canceled, the fees remain non-refundable. Currently, the fee for a single exit and re-entry visa is 200 Saudi riyals, valid for up to two months, with an additional 100 riyals for each extra month within the validity of the resident’s iqama (permit). Multiple exit and re-entry visas cost 500 riyals for up to three months, with an additional 200 riyals per extra month.

For residents outside Saudi Arabia needing to extend their visas, the extension fees are higher: 200 riyals for a single exit and re-entry visa extension (valid for one month) and 400 riyals for a multiple visa extension.

Jawazat highlighted that all visa processes, including cancellation and extension, can be managed through the Absher digital platform. To cancel an exit and re-entry visa, users should log in to Absher, navigate to "Services for Sponsors," select the relevant individual, and confirm the cancellation request. However, the visa fees are non-refundable even after cancellation.

For those renewing visas while abroad, such as domestic workers and dependents, Jawazat explained that renewals can be completed online through Absher. Users can access "Worker Services" or "Family Member Services" and follow the prompts to renew exit and re-entry visas for themselves or their sponsored individuals.

Employers or sponsors handling professional workers outside Saudi Arabia can use the Absher Business platform to extend visas by accessing "My Business Services" and selecting "Visas."