Saudi Arabia to open two-month status regularization program for Yemenis

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports will start a two-month program on October 11 for Yemeni nationals living in the country through irregular means.

The move follows a request from Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council president, Rashad al-Alimi, and directives from King Salman.

Yemenis without passports or other travel documents can apply for a free six-month visit visa, using an online appointment and proof of Yemeni nationality.

Some people with expired visitor documents can have their visas extended electronically for six months if their biometric data is registered and they have a valid passport.

Residents with expired permits may be able to transfer to a new employer through government platforms or leave Saudi Arabia with a final-exit visa.

Workers reported absent from their jobs may also be able to cancel the report and transfer to another employer if their travel documents are valid.

The program will operate across Saudi Arabia, with correction centers for people who violated border-security rules in regions including Riyadh, Mecca, Jazan and the Eastern Province.