Saudi Arabia Passport Rules: New decree of Saudi Arabia, changed rules regarding validity of passport, definitely know before traveling

There is a very important news for those traveling from Saudi Arabia and expatriates living there. The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has issued strict rules regarding the validity i.e. time limit of passport. If your passport is under-expired, you may run into trouble at the airport or your trip may be put on hold.

Travel rules for Saudi citizens

The Saudi government has made it clear that when citizens of the country travel abroad, the validity of their passport will depend on where they are going.

• Travel to Arab countries: Validity of passport should be at least 3 months.
• Travel to other international countries: Validity of passport must be at least 6 months.

Passport activation and digital ID alert

According to the update of January 8, 2026, after renewing the passport, it is mandatory to activate it electronically. For this, citizens can go to any passport department, branch or office located at the international port. The good thing is that no appointment will be required for this.

It has also been clarified that the Digital National ID Card or Family Register Card issued from Absher and Tawakkalna platforms cannot be used for international travel.

Rules for foreign travelers coming to Saudi Arabia

For all travelers coming to Saudi Arabia from outside, passport validity should be at least 6 months. Saudi immigration officials and airlines are enforcing this rule very strictly.

Visa and Passport Rules for Expats

Below are the rules related to exit and entry visas for expatriates living in Saudi Arabia:

• Exit Re-Entry Visa: To obtain this visa, the passport must have a validity of at least 90 days. However, to request this permit, the passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
• Final Exit Visa: For final exit visa, the passport must have a validity of at least 60 days. Also, the validity of the Resident ID (Iqama) should be at least 30 days. If the validity of Iqama is less than 30 days, then it will have to be renewed.