To facilitate easier travel for non-Saudi relatives and friends of Saudi citizens, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced personal visit visas. This visa simplifies access for visitors wishing to perform Umrah, visit cultural sites, and explore different regions across the Kingdom.
Overview of Personal Visit Visa
The Personal Visit Visa offers visitors the chance to explore Saudi Arabia beyond religious tourism. Here are the key benefits:
- Perform Umrah and Visit Riyadhul Jannah: Holders can visit the Holy Rawdah (Riyadhul Jannah) and perform Umrah in Makkah.
- Explore Various Regions: It allows visitors to travel across the Kingdom and visit tourist attractions, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.
- Flexible Stay Options: The visa supports both single-entry and multiple-entry options, with a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Tourism-Focused, Not for Hajj: While it grants broad travel access, this visa cannot be used for performing Hajj.
The personal visit visa complements other visa categories, such as family visit, work, and transit visas, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s vision to promote tourism and ease entry for foreign visitors.
New Rules for Temporary Work Visas: Penalties for Misuse
Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter regulations to govern the temporary work visas issued for employment during Hajj and Umrah seasons. These rules aim to prevent misuse and ensure that these visas are used only for their intended purpose.
Prohibited Activities
- It is illegal to sell, transfer, or use the temporary work visa for purposes outside the designated activity (e.g., services related to Hajj or Umrah).
Penalties for Violations
- Fine: Up to SR50,000 for any violation.
- Ban: A five-year ban on participating in temporary employment for Hajj and Umrah services may be imposed.
- Liability: Offenders must pay back any profits earned from the misuse of the visa.
Additionally, an applicant who submits incorrect data or documents could face a fine of SR15,000.
Temporary Work Visa Guidelines and Financial Guarantees
The new regulations also introduce financial safeguards:
- Financial Guarantee: A SR2,000 guarantee per worker is required to cover the cost of their return to their home country. This amount will be refunded if the worker departs on time or the visa is canceled.
- Duration of Stay: The temporary visa allows a stay of 90 days from the date of entry, with an option to extend for another 90 days through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
- No Hajj Permission: This visa does not permit participation in Hajj or staying in Makkah.
- Non-Convertible: Temporary work visas cannot be converted to permanent employment visas.
Impact on the Labor Market
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources highlights that these new measures will make the job market more attractive. The private sector can now use temporary visas with greater flexibility based on their operational needs, especially during the Umrah season that begins after the conclusion of Hajj each year.
Conclusion
The introduction of personal visit visas and the new temporary work visa rules reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving visitor access and ensuring the integrity of visa services. These initiatives align with the Kingdom’s efforts to boost tourism and support the labor market, while maintaining strict oversight on visa misuse.
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