Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior, through the Absher business platform, has recently updated its service fees. According to the new regulations, the fee for exit and re-entry visas is set at 103.5 Saudi Riyals, while the fee for Iqama renewal is 51.75 Riyals. The fee for a departure visa is fixed at 70 Riyals. Additionally, the fee for requesting employee-related reports is 28.75 Riyals, and updating passport information will cost 69 Riyals. These fees apply only to additional services and are not part of the employer’s annual package.

The Absher platform has also introduced a new service for reporting absconding visitors on visit visas. This will enhance Saudi Arabia’s internal security system. The service comes with five conditions: the visitor visa must be for personal or family purposes, reports can only be submitted up to seven days after the visa expires, and reports cannot be submitted after 14 days of expiration. Only one report can be filed per visitor, and once submitted, it cannot be canceled.

These changes and new services are crucial for all foreigners residing in Saudi Arabia, particularly those looking to renew their Iqama, extend their visa, or update passport information. Despite official claims of low visa costs, expatriates often end up paying double the amount for family visit visas. Since 2019, there have been calls from expatriates for reducing family visit visa fees, as many bring their families to Saudi Arabia for Umrah in Mecca. The official family visit visa fee is listed at 300 Riyals.