If you’re an employer who needs to end an expat employee’s residency, or an employee looking to leave Saudi Arabia permanently, the process is fully online — no need to visit the passport office. This article explains the conditions and step-by-step procedure.
Who it’s for: Employers and expat employees
Where to do it: Through Absher for Business or the Qiwa platform (qiwa.sa)
Cost: Free — no fees for issuing the visa
Timing: Instant — visa validity is 60 days from the date of issue
What Is a Final Exit Visa?
A final exit visa allows an expat employee to leave Saudi Arabia permanently. Once issued, the iqama is cancelled, and the employee cannot return without a new visa from a different sponsor.
Conditions for Issuing a Final Exit Visa
- The employee’s passport must be valid for at least 60 days
- No unpaid traffic violations on the employee
- No absconding report (huroob) registered against the employee
- All financial dues settled (end-of-service benefits, salary)
- No existing un-cancelled previous visa
Steps to Issue a Final Exit Visa via Absher for Business
- Log in to Absher for Business with the establishment account
- Select My Services then Establishment Services
- Choose Employee Management
- Select the employee you want to issue the visa for
- Click Issue Final Exit Visa
- Confirm the process — the visa is issued instantly
- Download the visa PDF and send it to the employee
Alternative Method: Via Qiwa Platform
- Log in to Qiwa (qiwa.sa)
- Select Employee Services
- Choose Issue Final Exit Visa
- Select the employee and confirm the request
Important Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuance fee | Free |
| Visa validity | 60 days from date of issue |
| Processing time | Instant |
| Fine for not leaving | 1,000 SAR + entry ban |
| Dependents | A separate visa must be issued for each family member |
⚠️ Warning: If the employee doesn’t leave within 60 days, a 1,000 SAR fine is imposed and they may be banned from entering the Kingdom. If they want to stay, the visa must be cancelled before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the employee request a final exit without the sponsor’s consent?
During the probation period (first 90 days) and if recently hired without an iqama — yes. After the probation period, the employer’s approval is required.
Can the employee return to Saudi Arabia after final exit?
Yes — but with a new work visa from a new sponsor. There’s no ban period as long as the exit was legal.
Do dependents need a separate visa?
Yes — each family member (wife, children) needs their own final exit visa.
Official links:
Absher for Business — Qiwa Platform
