News developments
Saudi Arabia: Expired visit visa holders may exit without fines until 18 April 2026
4 April 2026: Expired visit visa holders will be allowed to leave Saudi without paying overstay fines, provided they exit before 18 April 2026, following temporary relief measures issued by the Ministry of Interior.
Saudi authorities have announced a grace period for visitors whose visit visas expired on or after 25 February 2026, allowing them to depart Saudi without paying fines or penalties if they leave before 18 April 2026. The measure was introduced in response to regional travel disruptions that prevented many visitors from exiting on time.
The relief applies to visit visas, Umrah visas, transit visas, and final exit permits. Affected individuals may either exit Saudi Arabia directly through any international airport or border crossing without extending their visa or paying fees, or apply for a temporary extension through the Absher platform, subject to payment of the applicable government fees.
Saudi authorities have urged all eligible visa holders to act before the 18 April 2026 deadline, warning that standard overstay fines and legal consequences will apply once the grace period expires. The measure is described as temporary and exceptional, aimed at preventing penalties for overstays caused by circumstances beyond travellers’ control.
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