Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Visit visas cannot be extended for more than 180 days, the Passport Department (Jawazat) announced on Tuesday.

Visa extension requests can be made seven days before the expiry of visit visas.

The Jawazat said the final exit visa will be valid for 60 days and is issued free of charge.

It said dependents and companions of expatriate workers will not be affected by the rule which bans entry of those who go out and do not return on time.

The Jawazat urged Haj and Umrah pilgrims to observe the validity of their entry visas. Those who perform Haj without a permit will be banned from entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

According to the Jawazat, as many as 12 million entry visas were issued last year for Haj and Umrah pilgrims.

It expected that the number of Haj and Umrah pilgrims will rise to 30 million by 2030.

All preparations are being made by way of infrastructure development to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims and help them perform their rituals with ease and comfort.