Saudi Jawazat Imposes Over 22800 Penalties for Visa and Labor Violations

The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia issued 22,894 administrative decisions during the Islamic month of Rabi Al-Awwal 1448 AH against both citizens and expatriates found in violation of residency, labor, and border security regulations. According to figures published by the Saudi Gazette on September 16, 2026, these enforcement actions involve a combination of imprisonment, financial fines, and deportation.

The penalties are being applied to various infractions, including visa overstays, working while on an unauthorized visa—such as a visit visa—as well as the harboring or employment of illegal workers and breaches of border security. The Jawazat has issued a formal warning to all citizens, expatriates, and business owners, prohibiting them from transporting, employing, sheltering, or assisting violators in securing housing, jobs, or transportation.

Reporting Violations and Public Safety

Authorities have instructed the public to report suspected violations by dialing 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions of the Kingdom. All reports will be handled confidentially. This latest enforcement data follows a broader trend in 2026, during which hundreds of thousands of migrants have already been deported for residency and labor irregularities.

How to Verify Visas and Avoid Penalties

To ensure compliance, the Jawazat advises workers to verify the validity of their iqama or visit visas via the Absher and Muqeem portals. Individuals are reminded that working on visit, Umrah, or transit visas is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, those involved in labor or financial disputes are encouraged to check the Najiz platform for any existing enforcement files or travel bans. Employers are cautioned against housing or transporting workers with irregular legal status, and all parties are advised to maintain current records of employment contracts, salary transfers, and exit-reentry documentation.