The measures apply to holders of all visit visas, including Umrah, transit, and final exit visas, who were unable to leave the kingdom
According to a Saudi Press Agency report, the measures apply to holders of all visit visas, including Umrah, transit, and final exit visas, who were unable to leave the kingdom due to prevailing circumstances.
Under the new directives, expired visas may be extended upon request by the visitor’s host until April 18, 2026, after payment of applicable fees through the Absher platform.
Option to exit without penalties
In a significant concession, authorities also confirmed that affected visa holders may depart the kingdom directly through international exit points without needing to extend their visas or pay any fees or penalties.
“The ministry called on all beneficiaries of these directives to depart before April 18, 2026, to avoid the enforcement of applicable regulations in the kingdom against violators,” the report stated.
Officials emphasized that the initiative aims to ease travel challenges while ensuring compliance with national regulations.
Separately, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on March 18, reiterated key deadlines for Umrah pilgrims as part of broader efforts to streamline pilgrimage logistics.
The ministry announced that the first of Shawwal marks the final date for issuing Umrah visas, while the 15th of Shawwal is the deadline for entry into the kingdom. All Umrah visa holders must depart by the first of Dhul-Qi’dah.
“These measures come in line with the leadership’s directives to care for pilgrims and ensure they can perform their rituals and return to their countries with ease and reassurance,” the ministry said.
https://gulfbusiness.com/en/2026/saudi-arabia/saudi-allows-extension-of-expired-visas-key-