Saudi Arabia Continues Nationwide Residency Enforcement

Saudi authorities are continuing nationwide enforcement campaigns targeting violations of residency, labour, and border security regulations across the Kingdom in 2026. The ongoing checks aim to ensure compliance among residents, employers, and workers.

Members of the public can report violations through 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and through 999 or 996 in the rest of the Kingdom.

Penalties for violations

Anyone who facilitates illegal entry, transports, shelters, or assists violators faces up to 15 years' imprisonment, a fine of up to SAR 1,000,000, and confiscation of vehicles or houses used in the offence. Employing expatriates illegally, or allowing workers to work for others, can bring fines of up to SAR 100,000.

For residence-permit violations, the first offence carries a penalty equal to the iqama renewal charge, while a second violation is doubled.

Official fees to keep in mind

Staying compliant means keeping documents up to date. Current government fees include an iqama renewal charge of SAR 650, a dependent fee of SAR 400 per month, and an أبشر processing fee for iqama issuance or renewal of SAR 51.75.

The work permit levy is SAR 800 per month, dropping to SAR 700 per month in some smaller-establishment cases, while a Premium Residency work permit through قوى costs SAR 100. Processing an exit/re-entry visa extension costs SAR 103.50, and a final exit visa costs SAR 70.

The campaigns underline the importance for residents and employers alike of keeping permits valid and following official procedures to avoid heavy penalties.

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