Three-year ban lifted for foreign workers who did not return to the Kingdom before the expiry of their exit and re-entry visa

31 January 2024 - The Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has lifted the three-year ban on foreign workers who did not return to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) before the expiry of their exit and re-entry visas.  

The Jawazat office has notified various departments and entry ports, including land, sea, and airports, of its decision to lift the ban and allow the entry of foreign workers into the Kingdom who were unable to return before the expiration of their exit and re-entry visas.

This decision is an amendment to the existing policy and was made effective on 16 January 2024.

Deloitte’s view

The decision by the Saudi authorities to lift the three-year ban on foreign workers who did not return to the Kingdom before the expiry of their exit and re-entry visa is a positive one. It demonstrates their commitment to enhancing the processes for both employers and foreign workers in the Kingdom.