Saudi Arabia launches 30-day grace period for expired visit visas ahead of Hijri New Year

To mark the beginning of the Hijri New Year, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has introduced a 30-day grace period for holders of expired visit visas. The measure gives visitors an extended timeframe to legally stay and exit the Kingdom without facing penalties.

The initiative, effective from June 26–27, 2025 (1 Muharram 1447 AH), applies irrespective of visa type or designation: visit visas, including tourist, family, and business types.

Visitors whose visas have expired will be allowed to apply for an exit visa during the grace period. They must regularize their status by paying any required fees and fines via the Tawasul service on the Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform.


Officials have urged eligible individuals to use this one-time extension before the deadline, underlining the move’s goal to ease the departure process and ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s immigration regulations.

In tandem with this announcement, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah recently reminded pilgrims to exit before their visas expired—emphasizing the importance of respecting the Kingdom’s legal and spiritual guidelines.

Why it matters:

• Legal safety: The 30-day window prevents visa overstay penalties and potential future travel restrictions.
• Streamlined exits: Online processing through Absher simplifies the extension process.
• Cultural respect: Saudi authorities frame this initiative as a gesture of consideration linked to the sacred Hijri New Year.

How to apply:

1. Log in to Absher and access the Tawasul service.
2. Submit a request for exit visa extension.
3. Pay any associated fines and fees.
4. Plan departure within the 30-day grace period.

This one-week-old initiative offers a practical solution for those unintentionally overstaying in Saudi Arabia, blending administrative efficiency with cultural sensitivity.