How to Check Exit Re-Entry Visa Status
An exit and re-entry visa lets you leave Saudi Arabia temporarily and return without ending your residency — and before you travel, you must confirm it has actually been issued and covers your whole trip. This guide explains how to check your exit and re-entry visa status, the difference between single and multiple visas, and what to verify before you book flights.
An exit and re-entry visa is what an Iqama holder needs to leave Saudi Arabia and return. Check its status through Absher or the MOI portal using your Iqama number. Before travelling, confirm the visa is valid, covers your entire trip with a buffer, and matches whether you need a single or multiple-entry type. If it expires while you are abroad, returning can become complicated.
What an exit and re-entry visa is
As a resident, your Iqama lets you live in Saudi Arabia, but it does not by itself let you leave and come back. For that you need an exit and re-entry visa, which preserves your residency while you are out of the country. It is different from a final exit visa, which ends your residency for good.
These visas come in single-entry and multiple-entry forms, and each has a validity period and a maximum duration you can stay outside. Choosing the right type for your travel plans, and checking it before you go, is what keeps your return smooth.
How to check your exit and re-entry visa status
Confirm your visa has been issued and is valid through these official services before you travel.
Via Absher
Absher is the main government portal for residents and citizens.
- Go to the Absher portal at absher.sa and log in with your username and password, or register through the Nafath app.
- Open the 'My Services' section and choose 'Services'.
- Select 'Reports' and then 'Documents' (or 'Alien Control').
- Your Iqama details, including the expiry date, will be displayed on screen.
Via MOI (Ministry of Interior)
MOI (Ministry of Interior) is the Ministry of Interior e-services portal.
- Open the MOI e-services portal at moi.gov.sa.
- Switch the language to English from the top menu if needed.
- Go to 'E-Services' and then the 'Passports' (Jawazat) services.
- Choose the query service, enter your Iqama number and the verification code, then submit.
What to check before you travel
The most important checks are simple but easy to skip. Confirm the visa is actually issued, not just requested. Confirm its validity period covers your entire trip, ideally with a few days' buffer in case of delays or changed plans. And confirm it is the right type — a single-entry visa is consumed once you return, so if you plan multiple trips you need a multiple-entry one.
Also worth a quick look: that you have no unpaid fines or other flags that could complicate travel. A couple of minutes of checking prevents the nightmare scenario of being stuck abroad on an expired visa.
Is your Iqama about to expire?
Find out exactly how much renewal costs and what steps to follow before the expiry date.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference from a final exit visa?
An exit and re-entry visa lets you return; a final exit visa ends your residency permanently. They serve opposite purposes, so make sure you have the right one. See our final exit visa guide.
What if my exit and re-entry visa expires while I am abroad?
This can make returning difficult and may require your sponsor's help from outside the country. Always ensure the visa covers your full trip with a buffer before leaving.
Single or multiple entry — which do I need?
A single-entry visa covers one trip out and back. If you plan several trips within the period, a multiple-entry visa is the right choice.
Can I check this for free?
Yes. Checking your status through the official government portals is free of charge. You only pay when you carry out a paid transaction such as a renewal.
Do I need an Absher account?
Not always. While Absher is the most complete option, several checks also work through the MOI and labor ministry portals without a personal Absher login.
What details do I need?
Usually your Iqama number is enough. Some portals also let you search using your passport number, border number, date of birth or other details.