Introduction: Obtaining a Final Exit Visa in KSA
Leaving a host country permanently as an expatriate involves several crucial steps, and one such important aspect is obtaining a final exit visa, especially when your Iqama has expired. This guide is designed to lead you through each step with precision, ensuring a clear and straightforward understanding of the entire process of how to get a final exit visa with an expired Iqama.
Understanding the Basics:
The Iqama, or residency permit, plays an important role for expatriates living in Saudi Arabia. When planning a permanent departure, securing a final exit visa is essential. Even if your Iqama has expired, there are ways to navigate this process seamlessly.
1. Final Exit Visa with Expired Iqama Through Online (With Kafeel):
The process becomes more straightforward if your Iqama has expired within the last 30 days. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Sponsor Login
The sponsor (Kafeel) must log in to their Ministry of Labor account.
Step 2: Work Permit Issuance
Select “issue work permit for the final exit” and choose the employee. Opt for the “release” option.
Step 3: Fee Payment
Pay the Maktab Amal Fee to initiate the process.
Step 4: Work Permit Duration
A work permit will be issued for 180 days.
Step 5: Final Exit Visa Issuance
Use the Muqeem portal to issue the final exit visa.
Note: This process is time-sensitive, and the final exit visa can only be issued within 30 days of Iqama expiry.
2. Final Exit on Expired Iqama through the Ministry of Labor Office (Without Kafeel)
For cases where the Iqama has expired more than 30 days ago, an alternative approach can be taken:
Step 1: Sponsorship Transfer
Transfer sponsorship without Kafeel’s approval.
Step 2: Immediate Acceptance
The request to transfer sponsorship will be promptly accepted.
Step 3: Fee Payment
Pay the required fee for the transfer of sponsorship.
Step 4: New Kafeel Procedure
The new Kafeel will follow a similar procedure to issue the final exit visa.
Step 5: Final Exit Issuance
Obtain the final exit visa, even with an expired Iqama.
3. Final Exit without Iqama
For those who have just arrived in Saudi Arabia, you can work for the first 3 months on a work visa without needing an Iqama. Employers can issue a final exit visa without an Iqama through the Absher platform within 90 days of your arrival.
Final Exit Visa Rules for Individuals:
When utilizing Absher, applicants must adhere to the final exit rules in Saudi Arabia. These rules, crucial for a seamless process, are outlined below:
1. Prompt Issuance by Workers
Upon the employer’s visa approval, workers must issue the Saudi Arabia exit visa within 5 days.
2. Employer Response Time
Employers must approve or reject the exit visa request within 10 days.
3. MOL Review and Decision
In cases where the employer rejects the visa, the Ministry of Labor (MOL) will review the application and make a decision within 10 days.
4. Automatic Acceptance
The visa is accepted if the employer does not accept the application within the stipulated 10 days.
How do I initiate the final exit visa application through Absher?
To commence the application process, follow these steps on the Absher platform:
Step #1. Open and Log In to Absher Account
Open and log in to your Absher account.
Step #2. Navigate to Services in My Services
Navigate to the ‘Services’ option within the ‘My Services’ entry.
Step #3. Select Passport
Among the displayed options, select ‘Passport.’
Step #4. Click on Visa Applications
Click on ‘Visa Applications.’
Step #5. Progress to Next Page
Progress to the next page.
Step #6. Initiate Visa Application
Upon scrolling down, you’ll find the option to initiate a visa application.
Step #7. Choose a Definitive Exit Visa
Choose ‘Definitive Exit Visa’ as the visa type.
Step #8. Accept Terms and Conditions
Accept the provided terms and conditions.
Step #9. Confirm Selection and Request Final Exit Visa
Confirm your selection and proceed to request the final exit visa.
It’s imperative to note that failure to meet the specified requirements for the final exit visa application may result in an error message. Typically, this message will indicate, “Sorry, you are not eligible to create a visa application. Please contact the General Directorate of Passports for further assistance.”
4. Final Exit without Kafeel:
While challenging, securing a final exit visa without involving a Kafeel is possible. This requires filing a case in the Saudi Labor Court. For additional assistance, contact the HR Ministry at 19911, available in Arabic, English, Urdu, and other languages.
Final Thought:
In conclusion, obtaining a final exit visa with an expired Iqama is a manageable process, offering both online and in-person solutions. By following the outlined steps, expatriates can navigate this transition smoothly. The Ministry of Labor and Social Development is just a call away for any uncertainties or queries.
What is the significance of a final exit visa?
A final exit visa is essential when an expatriate plans to leave a host country permanently. It formalizes the departure process and is especially crucial if the Iqama has expired.
Can I secure a final exit visa with an expired Iqama through online methods?
Yes, if your Iqama has expired within the last 30 days, you can follow a straightforward online process through Absher. This involves the sponsor’s login, work permit issuance, fee payment, and final exit visa issuance.
Is there an alternative approach for those whose Iqama has expired more than 30 days ago?
Certainly. In such cases, a sponsorship transfer without the sponsor’s approval is an option. The process includes immediate acceptance, fee payment, and the new sponsor following a similar procedure for final exit visa issuance.
What if I have recently arrived in Saudi Arabia and don’t have an Iqama yet?
If you’ve just arrived, you can work for the first 3 months on a work visa without needing an Iqama. Employers are now allowed to issue a final exit visa without an Iqama through the Absher platform within 90 days of your arrival.
How can I initiate the final exit visa application through Absher?
To initiate the process, log in to your Absher account, navigate to ‘Services,’ select ‘Passport,’ click on ‘Visa Applications,’ and choose ‘Definitive Exit Visa.’ Accept terms, confirm, and proceed.
