Saudi Exit Re-Entry Visa: Rules and Your Rights
Travelling outside Saudi Arabia while employed requires an exit re-entry visa. Under the old kafala system, your employer controlled this entirely. Since the Labour Reform Initiative of March 2021, private sector workers can now issue their own exit re-entry visas through Absher. Here is how the system works now.
How to Apply Through Absher
Log into your personal Absher account at absher.sa. Navigate to "My Services" then "Passport Services" then "Exit Re-Entry Visa Issuance." Select single or multiple exit, choose your travel dates, and pay the fee online.
Single exit re-entry: SAR 200. Valid for 60 days. Allows one departure and return.
Multiple exit re-entry: SAR 500 for 3 months, SAR 500 for 6 months, SAR 500 for 12 months. Allows unlimited departures and returns within the validity period.
Eligibility Requirements
Valid iqama with at least 60 days remaining
No outstanding traffic fines or legal violations
Private sector employee registered on Qiwa (government sector has different rules)
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
Critical warning: If you do not return before your exit re-entry visa expires, your iqama is automatically cancelled and you may be flagged as "huroob" (absconder). This can result in a travel ban to Saudi Arabia. Always ensure you return before the visa expiry date.
What If Your Employer Blocks Your Travel
Under the Labour Reform Initiative, your employer cannot block your exit re-entry visa if you apply through Absher yourself. However, some employers attempt to circumvent this by filing a "huroob" (absconding) report or claiming the worker has obligations.
If your employer files a huroob report against you while you are traveling, you can contest it through Absher or by calling HRSD at 19911. You have 60 days to contest a huroob report. If the report is found to be malicious, the employer faces penalties.
Your contract may include clauses requiring you to notify your employer before traveling. While the Labour Reform Initiative gives you the right to travel, failing to follow contractual notice requirements could be considered a breach of contract. Review your contract terms before booking travel.
Dependents and Family Exit Re-Entry
If you have dependents on your iqama (spouse, children), you can issue exit re-entry visas for them through your Absher account. Each dependent visa costs the same as the worker's visa. Dependents under 18 cannot travel alone — they must be accompanied by the iqama holder or have authorized travel permission through Absher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get exit re-entry without employer approval?
Yes, since March 2021. Private sector workers apply directly through Absher. No employer approval needed.
How long is the visa valid?
Single exit: 60 days. Multiple exit: 3, 6, or 12 months. Cannot exceed iqama expiry date.
What if I overstay?
Your iqama is cancelled automatically and you may be flagged as an absconder. This can result in a Saudi travel ban.
Can my employer cancel my visa?
Not if you issued it yourself through Absher. Always apply through your own account, not through the employer.
Check Travel Restrictions in Your Contract
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