Saudi Arabia makes free extension of residency permits, visit visas

Riyadh: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Monday extended the validity of Iqamas (residency permits) for expatriates outside the kingdom for free of cost in the country, the local media houses reported.

The extension approved by the finance minister at the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques will also favour the visitors for their exit and re-entry visas who are in the country due to travel ban.

According to local media reports, the extension will be free of charge till June 2 as a part of ongoing efforts to deal with Covid-19

Jawazat ( General Directorate of Passports) has confirmed that the extension will automatically take place in collaboration with the National Information Centre, without the need to report to the directorate of passports offices.

In addition, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued guidelines for institutional quarantine procedures and for those who are non-Saudis citizens, not immunized and those coming from red-listed countries, Arab News reported. Along with details on the insurance policy, the guide reiterates the importance of following regulations and protocols in the airports, the use of Tawakkalna and the health and vaccination requirements for travel and those arriving.

The Kingdom's temporary arrival suspension covers countries with coronavirus outbreaks to avoid a surge in infections.