Overstaying in Saudi? Face Jail, Fines & Deportation

Saudi Arabia has recently tightened its immigration and residency regulations, sending a strong message to all visitors, expatriates, and workers. Overstaying your visa is no longer a minor offense—it could lead to hefty fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

With thousands of Pakistanis, Indians, Bangladeshis, and other expats working or visiting the Kingdom, the announcement has caused a stir across South Asia and the Gulf region.

• Saudi Arabia introduces massive penalties for visa overstays

• Overstayers could face jail, heavy fines, and permanent deportation

• Crackdown targets Hajj and Umrah overstayers, tourists, and workers

• Authorities advise all visitors to strictly follow visa durations

• The penalties apply to GCC nationals, residents, and foreigners alike

The Saudi government, under Vision 2030 reforms, is enforcing stricter measures to regulate foreign presence. The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has announced a renewed campaign to crack down on individuals overstaying their visas.

Penalties include:

• First Offense: Fine up to SAR 15,000 (PKR 1.1 million approx.)

• Second Offense: Fine up to SAR 25,000 + Jail time

• Third Offense: Deportation and permanent ban from entering the Kingdom

These measures are part of Saudi Arabia’s effort to manage its labor market, reduce illegal immigration, and maintain internal security.

This rule applies to all categories of visa holders, including:

• Hajj and Umrah pilgrims

• Tourists and business visitors

• Seasonal workers and laborers

• Residents with expired iqamas (residency permits)

According to the Interior Ministry, there will be no exceptions for nationality, purpose of visit, or religious tourism. Everyone is required to exit the country before their visa expires.

In an official press release, the Saudi General Directorate of Passports stated:

“All foreign nationals must respect the laws of the Kingdom. Overstaying a visa is a serious offense, and violators will be held accountable through fines, imprisonment, and deportation. Visitors must leave before their visa expires, and sponsors must ensure compliance.”

Pakistan is among the top five countries with the largest number of workers and pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. With over 2.5 million Pakistanis living in the Kingdom, this policy is of immense importance.

• Over 250,000 Pakistanis visit Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah annually

• Around 65,000 Pakistani laborers enter Saudi Arabia each year

• Thousands of Pakistani tourists and business professionals travel every month

A minor oversight, like overstaying for even a day or two,o could now result in harsh penalties.

Understanding why visitors overstay can help avoid unintentional violations:

• Miscommunication about visa expiry dates

• Delays in flights or travel arrangements

• Confusion between multiple-entry and single-entry visas

• Hajj or Umrah pilgrims extending their stays for tourism

• Dependency on agents or sponsors for legal status

Saudi authorities have already deported thousands of illegal residents in the past few months. According to local reports:

• Over 50,000 foreigners have been fined or jailed in 2024

• The Ministry of Interior is running regular raids across major cities

• Special attention is being paid to Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Jeddah

Security forces are working closely with Jawazat, the police, and labor offices to detect violators using digital surveillance and border checks.

The majority of overstaying cases have been linked to pilgrims who come on Hajj or Umrah visas and then attempt to overstay for work or other purposes.

• Hajj and Umrah visas are strictly non-renewable

• Pilgrims must leave immediately after completing rituals

• Any delay is now treated as a criminal offense

Authorities will also punish sponsors or companies who fail to report overstaying visitors under their responsibility.

The policy has received mixed reactions on social media and expat forums.

“It’s about time Saudi Arabia took a firm stance to manage its population and resources.”

“Not all overstays are intentional. There should be some leniency for minor delays.”

Still, the consensus is clear—follow the rules or face consequences.

Saudi Arabia’s updated policy is a wake-up call for all visitors, especially from South Asian countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

With strict penalties for overstaying, now more than ever, travelers must:

• Be aware of their visa terms

• Avoid relying on word-of-mouth or agents

• Take personal responsibility for their legal stay

• Act swiftly in case of any delay or confusion