The Saudi Ministry of Interior has reiterated that violations of residency rules鈥攕uch as overstaying a visa鈥攁ffect not only expatriates but also their sponsors. Sponsors may face serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and even deportation if they are foreign nationals.
Failure to report the departure of a sponsored individual after their visa expires can result in up to six months in prison and a fine of up to 50,000 Saudi riyals (approximately USD 13,300). Saudi authorities are tightening enforcement measures, targeting not only expatriates in breach of their visa conditions but also negligent sponsors, whether Saudi or foreign.
The warning serves as a reminder of the sponsor's responsibilities. These go beyond ensuring compliance with visa durations and extend to observing all regulations in force within the Kingdom.
To avoid penalties, sponsors are urged to inform the Ministry of Interior promptly once a sponsored individual leaves the country. Authorities recommend acting well before the expiration of the residence permit to avoid last-minute complications.
