How to Pay Your Saudi Arabia Re-Entry Visa Fee: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the process of paying your Saudi Arabia re-entry visa fee can seem daunting, especially with the ever-evolving digital landscape and government regulations. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed, step-by-step explanation of the various methods available, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. We will cover online payment options, ATM transactions, and other relevant information to help you successfully complete this crucial step in your visa renewal process.
Understanding the Re-Entry Visa Fee
Before diving into the payment methods, it’s crucial to understand what the re-entry visa fee covers and its significance. The re-entry visa allows foreign residents (Iqama holders) in Saudi Arabia to leave the country and return within a specified timeframe. This visa is essential for maintaining your residency status and employment rights. Failure to obtain a valid re-entry visa before departing Saudi Arabia can result in the cancellation of your Iqama and the inability to return.
The re-entry visa fee is a government charge levied for granting this permission. The amount varies depending on the duration of the visa, typically ranging from a few months to a year. It’s imperative to know the exact fee amount applicable to your specific circumstances to avoid payment errors and potential delays.
Checking Your Re-Entry Visa Fee and Validity
Before initiating the payment, verifying the fee and the validity of your existing Iqama and the intended re-entry visa duration is paramount. This prevents unnecessary payments or complications later.
- Absher Platform: The Absher platform (more on this later) allows you to check your Iqama expiry date and the status of your re-entry visa application, if any.
- Muqeem Portal: The Muqeem portal, primarily used by employers, can also provide information regarding your re-entry visa status and related fees. Contact your employer’s HR department for assistance.
- Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports): While less convenient, visiting a Jawazat office is an option to inquire about your re-entry visa status and fee. However, this typically involves longer waiting times.
Online Payment Options: The Absher Platform
The Absher platform, managed by the Saudi Ministry of Interior, is the primary and most convenient method for paying your re-entry visa fee. It offers a secure and user-friendly interface for various government services, including visa-related payments.
Step 1: Registration and Login to Absher
- Registration: If you haven’t already, you need to register for an Absher account. This requires your Iqama number, mobile number registered in Saudi Arabia, and a valid email address. The registration process involves verifying your identity through fingerprint scanning at designated Absher kiosks or banks.
- Login: Once registered, access the Absher platform via the website (www.absher.sa) or the Absher mobile application (available on both iOS and Android). Enter your username (usually your Iqama number) and password. You may also be required to enter a one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number for added security.
Step 2: Navigating to the Visa Services Section
After logging in, navigate to the “My Services” section. This section provides access to various government services, including passport services, traffic services, and, importantly, visa services.
- Click on “My Services.”
- A list of available services will appear. Look for ” جوازات (Jawazat)” or “Passport Services” and click on it.
- Under “Passport Services,” you will find options related to visa applications, renewals, and payments.
Step 3: Selecting the “Re-Entry Visa” Option
Within the “Passport Services” section, locate the option for “Re-Entry Visa” or its Arabic equivalent. This option allows you to initiate the re-entry visa application and pay the associated fee.
- Carefully read the available options and choose the one that specifically relates to re-entry visa issuance or renewal.
- The exact wording may vary slightly depending on updates to the Absher platform.
Step 4: Providing Required Information
The system will prompt you to provide the necessary information for the re-entry visa application. This typically includes:
- Iqama Number: Your valid Iqama number.
- Passport Number: Your passport number.
- Visa Duration: The desired duration of the re-entry visa (e.g., 3 months, 6 months, 1 year). The fee will vary based on the chosen duration.
- Family Members (if applicable): If you are applying for a re-entry visa for your dependents (family members under your sponsorship), you will need to provide their Iqama numbers as well. Ensure that their Iqama and passport details are accurate.
Step 5: Reviewing the Fee and Terms and Conditions
After entering the required information, the system will display the applicable re-entry visa fee based on the duration you selected. Carefully review the fee amount and the terms and conditions associated with the re-entry visa.
- Fee Calculation: Double-check that the fee displayed matches your expectations based on the visa duration.
- Terms and Conditions: Read the terms and conditions carefully, as they may contain important information about visa validity, usage restrictions, and other relevant details.
- Confirmation: Confirm that all the information you have entered is accurate before proceeding to the payment stage.
Step 6: Selecting a Payment Method
Absher offers various payment methods, primarily through SADAD (Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency Direct Access System). SADAD is a national electronic bill payment system that facilitates secure online transactions.
- SADAD Account: Select the “SADAD” option. This will generate a SADAD invoice number.
- Bank Account: You will need access to your online banking account with a Saudi bank that supports SADAD payments. Most major Saudi banks are integrated with the SADAD system.
Step 7: Paying Through Your Bank’s Online Platform
Log in to your bank’s online banking platform using your credentials. Navigate to the bill payment section and select the “SADAD” option.
- Bill Payment Section: Look for options like “Bill Payments,” “Government Payments,” or “SADAD Payments.”
- Service Provider: You may need to search for the service provider. Look for options like “Ministry of Interior,” “Jawazat,” or simply “MOI.”
- Invoice Number: Enter the SADAD invoice number generated by the Absher platform.
- Amount: The amount due will usually be automatically populated based on the invoice number. Verify that the amount is correct.
- Confirmation: Confirm the payment and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transaction. You will typically receive a transaction confirmation message or receipt.
Step 8: Verifying the Payment Status on Absher
After making the payment through your bank, return to the Absher platform to verify the payment status. The system should automatically update to reflect that the fee has been paid.
- Check Payment Status: Refresh the “Re-Entry Visa” section on Absher. The status should change from “Pending Payment” to “Paid” or a similar indication.
- Print Receipt: If available, print or save a copy of the payment receipt for your records. This can be useful as proof of payment if any issues arise.
ATM Payment Option (Less Common but Still Available)
While online payment through Absher is the preferred method, paying through ATMs is also possible, although less convenient.
Step 1: Obtain the SADAD Invoice Number
Follow steps 1-5 of the Absher online payment process to generate the SADAD invoice number. This number is crucial for making the payment through an ATM.
Step 2: Locate a Bank ATM
Find an ATM of a Saudi bank that supports SADAD payments. Most major banks offer this service.
Step 3: Navigate to the Bill Payment Section
Insert your ATM card and enter your PIN. Navigate to the bill payment section on the ATM screen. The exact wording may vary depending on the bank.
- Look for options like “Bill Payments,” “Government Payments,” or “SADAD Payments.”
Step 4: Select the Service Provider
Choose the service provider as “Ministry of Interior,” “Jawazat,” or “MOI.” You may need to browse through a list of service providers.
Step 5: Enter the SADAD Invoice Number
Enter the SADAD invoice number generated by the Absher platform.
Step 6: Confirm the Payment
The ATM will display the amount due. Verify that the amount is correct and confirm the payment.
Step 7: Obtain a Receipt
The ATM will print a receipt confirming the payment. Keep this receipt as proof of payment.
Step 8: Verify the Payment Status (If Possible)
Unlike online payments, verifying the payment status through the ATM is not always possible. You may need to check the status on Absher later or contact the Jawazat if you have any concerns.
Important Considerations for ATM Payments:
- Availability: ATM payment options may not be available at all ATMs. Check with your bank for availability.
- Verification: Verifying the payment status after an ATM transaction can be challenging. Keep the receipt safe.
- Convenience: ATM payments are generally less convenient than online payments through Absher.
**Paying Through Banks Directly
