Leaving Saudi Arabia as an expatriate resident demands a meticulous process, particularly when dealing with expired documents such as the Iqama. Understanding the intricacies of securing a Final Exit Visa under these circumstances is crucial for a seamless departure. In this comprehensive guide, we will navigate through the steps and options available to obtain a Final Exit Visa despite an expired Iqama.
Final Exit Visa with Expired Iqama Through Online (With Kafeel)
When confronted with an expired Iqama, expatriates often seek solutions that involve their sponsors or employers, known as “Kafeel” in Saudi Arabia. Fortunately, the online platform provided by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development offers a streamlined process for this scenario.
- Consulting Your Sponsor: Begin by contacting your sponsor or employer, informing them of your intention to obtain a Final Exit Visa despite the expired Iqama. Your sponsor can facilitate this process by issuing a special work permit for the additional stay period. This permit incurs a nominal fee, which varies depending on the duration of the extension.
- Navigating the Ministry’s Website: Your sponsor can then proceed to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s website to initiate the issuance of the work permit. Through the online portal, they can navigate to the relevant section and submit the necessary details and payment for the work permit.
- Finalizing the Exit Visa: Once the work permit is successfully processed and paid for, your sponsor gains the authority to proceed with issuing the Final Exit Visa. This can be done conveniently through the sponsor’s Absher account or by visiting the Jawazat office. Importantly, there are no additional fees associated with obtaining the Final Exit Visa through this method.
Final Exit on Expired Iqama through the Ministry of Labor Office (Without Kafeel)
For expatriates seeking independence from their sponsors in the Final Exit Visa process, an alternative route is available through the Ministry of Labor office. This method allows individuals to navigate the bureaucratic procedures independently, albeit with certain requirements and considerations.
- Leveraging Labor Office Support: Initiate the process by registering a formal complaint with the Labor Office of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. This complaint should highlight the expired status of your Iqama and the need for a Final Exit Visa. The Labor Office will then intervene by notifying your sponsor and urging them to renew your Iqama promptly.
- Sponsor’s Responsibility: It’s crucial to understand that the timely renewal of your Iqama and work permit remains the responsibility of your sponsor. Failure to adhere to these obligations may result in penalties, which the sponsor is obliged to bear. Therefore, while pursuing the Final Exit Visa through this channel, maintaining communication with your sponsor is essential to ensure compliance with renewal procedures.
- Seeking Assistance: Should you encounter any obstacles or require further clarification during the process, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development offers customer support through its dedicated hotline at 19911. Assistance is available in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Tagalog, catering to the diverse expatriate community in Saudi Arabia.
In conclusion, obtaining a Final Exit Visa on an expired Iqama necessitates a systematic approach, whether through the involvement of your sponsor or independently via government channels. By adhering to the prescribed procedures and leveraging available resources, expatriates can navigate this transition smoothly, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and facilitating a hassle-free departure from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
