Saudi Launches Two-Month Yemeni Status Correction Drive
The Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has officially launched a massive two-month regularization campaign for Yemeni citizens residing in the Kingdom. Commencing today, October 11, 2026, the initiative provides a vital window for Yemeni nationals to correct their legal status and ensure their residency is compliant with Saudi law.
The campaign follows high-level directives from King Salman bin Abdulaziz and a formal request from Dr. Rashad al-Alimi, Chairman of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council. By regularizing these statuses, the Kingdom aims to maintain stability within essential economic sectors, including construction, agriculture, and domestic labor.
Four Specific Categories for Regularization
The Jawazat has identified four distinct groups of Yemeni nationals who are eligible to participate in this status correction process:
- Those without documentation: Individuals who currently lack passports or valid identification can apply for a six-month free visit visa. To proceed, applicants must secure an appointment via the Absher platform, select an appropriate correction center, and present proof of nationality, such as a passport or travel documents issued by the Yemeni Embassy.
- Holders of expired visitor IDs: For those with expired visitor visas or IDs whose biometric data is already on file, the process is even simpler. If they hold a valid passport, they will receive an automatic six-month electronic extension without the need to visit a Jawazat office in person.
- Individuals with expired Iqamas: Yemeni nationals holding expired residency permits (iqama) but possessing valid travel documents have the option to transfer their services to a new employer. This can be completed digitally through the Absher, Qiwa, or Musaned platforms. Alternatively, they may opt for a final exit visa, which will be granted without a future re-entry ban.
- Those with 'Huroob' (Absconding) status: In a significant move for labor mobility, individuals reported for absconding who hold valid passports may have their absconding reports canceled. This allows them to transition to new employment via the Qiwa or Musaned platforms.
Where to Apply: 23 Correction Centers Established
To ensure the campaign runs smoothly across the Kingdom, the government has deployed 23 dedicated correction centers. These centers are strategically located to serve various regions:
- Riyadh: 4 centers
- Asir: 3 centers
- Eastern Region: 3 centers
- Makkah: 2 centers
- Jazan: 2 centers
- Al-Jawf: 2 centers
- Single centers located in: Najran, Madinah, Al-Baha, Northern Borders, Tabuk, Qassim, and Hail.
The Yemeni Embassy has confirmed that for those who have access to nearby passport offices, no additional documentation is required beyond the appointment scheduled through the Absher platform.