RIYADH — Public security has called on citizens and residents to report visitor visa holders who overstay their authorized period, warning that failure to notify authorities of a visitor’s departure after the visa expires could result in a fine of up to R50,000 and up to six months in prison.
The authorities said that if the violator is a non-Saudi resident and fails to report the overstay, the sponsor could also be deported, stressing that violations expose sponsors to severe legal penalties.
Recent statistics released by the General Directorate of Passports show that during the month of Rajab, 19,559 administrative decisions were taken against nationals and residents for violations of regulations regarding residence, labor and border security.
Penalties include imprisonment, fines, and deportation according to relevant laws and regulations.
The General Directorate of Passports called on citizens, residents, business owners, and individuals not to transport, employ, or protect violators of residence, labor, or border security laws, nor to hide or provide assistance to violators in securing employment, housing, or transportation.
It also asked for cooperation in reporting violators and assured that all reports will be treated as completely confidential and that informants will not be held liable.

