General Directorate of Passports has introduced a new initiative allowing holders of expired visit visas to extend their stay solely for final departure from Saudi Arabia, regardless of the visa type or category.
The move aims to streamline exit procedures and regulate residency by facilitating the departure of individuals who have overstayed their visas.
According to Jawazat, the extension process must be completed Absher platform, specifically through the “Tawasul” service.
Authorities urged eligible individuals to apply promptly, cautioning that no further extensions or exemptions will be allowed after the specified deadline.
Earlier this month, Saudi security forces detained nearly 15,000 individuals during a nationwide crackdown targeting illegal residency and labour violations.
Between May 8 and May 14, a total of 14,987 violators were arrested, including 9,212 for breaching residency laws, 3,502 for border security violations, and 1,873 for labour-related offences across various regions of the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia bans entry to Makkah without permit
Saudi Arabia earlier announced that expatriates and residents without official permits will be barred from entering Makkah from April 13, as part of new regulations introduced for the upcoming Hajj season.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, Public Security confirmed that the permit requirement has come into effect, and only individuals with valid authorisation will be allowed entry into the holy city.
The restrictions apply to anyone who does not hold a valid Hajj permit, a work permit for the Holy Sites, or a residency ID issued in Makkah. Authorities have set up strict checkpoints, where those failing to meet the requirements will be turned back.
In addition, April 18 has been set as the final deadline for Umrah pilgrims to leave the country. From the same date, Umrah permits issued through the Nusuk platform will be suspended until May 31. Entry into Makkah will also be restricted for all visa holders except those with valid Hajj visas.
The government officials added that permits for Hajj season workers will be issued digitally through platforms such as Absher and Muqeem Portal, integrated with the Tasreeh system.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors to strictly comply with the new rules, warning that violations will result in penalties, as the measures are aimed at ensuring safety and smooth pilgrimage operations.
Also read: Hajj 2026 operation begin: when will first flight depart?
