visit visa
How to Extend Your Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia
If you are in Saudi Arabia on a tourist or family visit visa and want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension before your visa expires. Extensions are handled online through the Absher Visitor platform. This guide explains the process, eligibility, and what to do if your extension is denied.
Who Is This For?
Visitors currently in Saudi Arabia on a tourist or family visit visa who need to extend their stay beyond the original visa duration.
What You Need Before Starting
- ✓A valid visit visa that has not yet expired — you cannot extend an already-expired visa
- ✓A passport with sufficient validity (at least 6 months remaining)
- ✓Access to the Absher Visitor platform (visitor.absher.sa) or the Muqeem portal
- ✓A payment method for the extension fee
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Go to visitor.absher.sa on your browser or download the Absher Visitor app.
- 2Register or log in using your passport number and visa details.
- 3Select 'Extend Visit Visa' from the services menu.
- 4Confirm your current visa details and choose the extension duration — typically up to 90 additional days.
- 5Pay the extension fee online. The fee varies but is typically SAR 200–500 depending on duration and visa type.
- 6Your extension is usually approved instantly or within a few hours. Download or screenshot the extension confirmation.
- 7You will receive an updated visa document by email — save this as it is your proof of legal stay.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Waiting until the visa expires before applying — you cannot extend an expired visa. Apply at least 1 week before expiry.
- ✗Assuming the extension is automatic — it must be applied for and approved before the original visa expires.
- ✗Not saving the extension confirmation — carry it alongside your original visa document.
- ✗Applying for a family visit visa extension without the sponsor's approval — family visit visas require the sponsoring resident to initiate or approve the extension through their Absher account.
Timing & Fees
Extension fee: approximately SAR 200–500 depending on visa type and duration. Processing is usually instant online. Extensions are typically granted for up to 90 additional days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times can I extend my tourist visa?
Tourist visas can generally be extended once for up to 90 additional days. After that, you would need to exit Saudi Arabia and re-enter on a new visa if you wish to stay longer.
What if my extension request is denied?
If denied, you must leave Saudi Arabia before your current visa expires. Contact the Jawazat (Passport Authority) helpline or visit a Jawazat office to understand the reason and your options.
Can I extend a family visit visa?
Yes, but the extension must be initiated by the Saudi resident who sponsored your visit. The sponsor needs to log into their Absher account and request the extension on your behalf.
What happens if I overstay while waiting for the extension decision?
If your original visa expires before the extension is approved, you are technically overstaying. Always apply for extensions at least a week before expiry to avoid this situation.