Saudi Arabia Introduces Strict Rule For Foreign Workers’ Families
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The Saudi Arabian General Directorate of Passports (GDP) has issued a directive requiring all expatriates in the Kingdom to immediately register the fingerprints of their family members aged six or older.
This initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance security measures for individuals living, working, or visiting Saudi Arabia.
Improved Service Access
Registering fingerprints for dependents is essential for accessing government services and obtaining official documents, facilitating smooth interactions with authorities.
Read more :Â Saudi Arabia Limits Multiple Visits To Roza-e-Rasool
Digital Visa Extensions
Saudi authorities have introduced convenient visa options for expatriates. Exit/re-entry visas now allow foreign residents to return until the expiration of their valid visas, providing greater ease of movement.
Remote Visa Extension
To simplify procedures, the GDP has announced electronic visa extensions for exit/re-entry visa holders outside Saudi Arabia. This can be done through the Absher platform or Muqeem portal, with online payment options.
Visa Validity Requirements
For efficient processing of exit/re-entry and final exit visas, foreign nationals should ensure passports have at least 90 days of validity for exit/re-entry applications and 60 days for final exit visas.
Expat Community in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia hosts a diverse expatriate community contributing significantly to the Kingdom’s economic and social landscape. Foreigners make up about 41.5% of the total population of 32.2 million.
Leading Nationalities
Asian nationals, particularly Bangladeshis (2.1 million), Indians (1.88 million), and Pakistanis (1.81 million), dominate the expatriate population. Other notable communities include Yemenis, Egyptians, Sudanese, Filipinos, and Syrians.
The mandatory biometric registration reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to administrative efficiency and creating a secure environment for both citizens and expatriates.
