Saudi Arabia's Riyadh, The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has announced a new rule that requires residency permits, or Iqama, to be valid for at least 30 days before final exit visas may be issued. This is a major change for expats. This decision, which takes effect immediately, attempts to guarantee adherence to residency laws and expedite the departure procedure for foreign employees.
Importance of the Rules and Regulations (Exit/ Re-entry visa): The Jawazat claims that the new regulation requires that a foreign worker's Iqama be renewed prior to submitting an application for a final exit visa if it has fewer than 30 days left on its validity. The goal of this measure is to avoid circumstances in which foreign nationals trying to depart the country end up in problematic residency statuses. During a press briefing, a Jawazat official said, "We urge employers and heads of families to ensure that Iqamas are renewed well in advance of applying for final exit visas.
30-Day Minimum Validity: The rule also makes it clear that a final exit visa can still be granted to an expatriate if their Iqama is valid for 30 to 60 days. In this instance, the exit visa's duration will match the Iqama's remaining validity time. A 60-day final exit visa will be granted for Iqamas that are valid for 60 days or more.
As part of its continuous efforts to control foreign residency and guarantee adherence to labor regulations, Saudi Arabia has implemented this new requirement. Many people have applauded the move since it gives businesses and international employees more precise instructions about the leaving process. Employers now have an additional obligation to proactively manage the residency situations of their staff members, nevertheless.
Saudi Arabia Enhances Labor Laws to Support Expatriates Amid Economic Reforms: For expatriates in Saudi Arabia, where a sizable population of foreign workers contribute to a variety of industries, including construction, healthcare, and hospitality, the announcement is especially relevant. As part of larger economic reforms under its Vision 2030 project, which seeks to diversify the economy and improve the standard of living for citizens, the Kingdom has been attempting to improve its labor laws.
This new rule, foreign nationals are urged to keep track of their residency status and make sure their Iqamas are renewed on time in order to prevent issues when making travel plans. Additionally, employers have been reminded of their responsibility to help their staff members through these procedures.
The Jawazat has underlined that these actions are intended to uphold order in the immigration system as well as safeguard the rights of foreign nationals. Saudi authorities hope to lower the number of cases of overstaying and unlawful residency by imposing a minimum validity duration on residency permits prior to issuing final exit visas.
Saudi Arabia Implements Minimum Validity for Residency Permits to Enhance Workforce Management: The adoption of this policy is another step in Saudi Arabia's efforts to establish a more structured and effective framework for managing its diverse workforce while guaranteeing compliance with national laws. However, it is crucial that expatriates stay aware of their residency permits and follow all rules established by Saudi authorities as they navigate this new environment.
Since this adjustment has taken effect, companies and expatriates must cooperate to guarantee seamless leaving procedures, which will ultimately help to create a more stable work climate in the Kingdom.
