6-month jail and SR50,000 fine for sponsors who fail to report departure of overstaying expats

 April 23, 2025

Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Ministry of Interior announced on Wednesday that a maximum imprisonment of six months and a fine of up to SR50,000 will be imposed on any sponsors, who fail to report the departure of those expatriate workers under their sponsorship, after the expiry of their entry visas. The sponsor, who is a foreigner, will be deported after serving the jail term and payment of the fine.

The ministry also emphasized the importance of adhering to Saudi Arabia's official Hajj and Umrah guidelines and instructions.

The ministry announced a similar penalty on Tuesday for the overstaying expatriates also. It stated that expatriates who fail to leave Saudi Arabia after the expiry of their entry visas may face a fine of up to SR50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, and deportation.

The ministry had previously announced a maximum fine of SR100,000 for Hajj and Umrah service providing companies and establishments that fail to report any Hajj or Umrah pilgrim who overstayed their visas.

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