Saudi Arabia warns overstaying expats could lead to fines and jail.
Saudi Arabia has warned expatriates that remaining in the Kingdom after the expiry of their entry visas could result in fines of up to SR50,000, imprisonment for up to six months and deportation.In a statement, the Interior Ministry urged visa holders to comply with the country’s immigration rules and reminded the public to report violations of residency, labour and border security regulations. Reports can be made by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in all other regions.The warning comes as Saudi authorities continue to tighten enforcement of immigration laws. Last week, the Ministry of Interior said more than 15,000 people were arrested during a nationwide campaign targeting residency, labour and border security violations, underscoring the government’s ongoing crackdown on immigration-related offences.Officials have repeatedly said they will continue enforcing the Kingdom’s residency and border regulations and have urged both residents and visitors to comply with the law to avoid legal action.
