Changes to exit/re-entry visas
Currently, KAUST pays the fees for a one-year multiple exit/re-entry visa for eligible employees and postdocs and their eligible dependents (SAR 500 per person per year). In October 2016, the Saudi Arabian government announced changes to the fees for and durations of exit/re-entry visas for all Iqama holders and visitors visas. This announcement covers the changes to visa fees for Iqama holders only.
New visa durations and fees for Iqama holders as of October 2016
A single exit/re-entry visa now costs SAR 200, allowing a duration of up to two months for any single trip outside the Kingdom. The duration can be extended to a total of 12 months with each additional month costing SAR 100 (SAR 1,200 for 12 months).
A multiple exit/re-entry visa now costs SAR 500, allowing travel multiple times outside the Kingdom for up to three months. The duration can be extended to a total of 12 months with each additional month costing SAR 200 (SAR 2,300 for 12 months).
Both visa types still need to be used for travel outside the Kingdom within 90 days of the date of issue.
KAUST to pay subsidy for visas for Iqama holders
The University has decided to increase its contribution towards the fees for exit/re-entry visas. KAUST will make an annual one-time payment (through payroll) SAR 1,000 toward the exit/re-entry visa fees for each eligible employee and postdoc and their eligible dependents. For 2017, the payment will be made in the April payroll. The payment will provide individuals with the flexibility to choose the visa type that suits their travel needs for the year. For the purpose of business travel, the University will continue to pay the fees for exit/re-entry visa.
Further information
For further guidance on the new visa fees, including when the subsidy will be paid, how to pay for a visa and how to obtain a visa from April 1, 2017, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions.
Human Resources will also provide question and answer sessions on these changes every Monday and Wednesday throughout March. For further information on these sessions please click here.
Henk Kriek
Chief Financial and Human Resources Officer