Sponsors who neglect to record the departure of the expatriate workers they support after their entrance visas expire risk a maximum penalty of six months in prison and a fine of up to SR50,000, the Ministry of Interior said on Wednesday. Following the completion of the jail sentence and payment of the fine, the foreign sponsor will be deported.
The ministry also stressed the significance of following Saudi Arabia's official rules and guidelines for the Hajj and Umrah.
A similar punishment for overstaying expatriates was also announced by the ministry on Tuesday. Expats who do not depart Saudi Arabia after their entrance permits have expired risk deportation, a fine of up to SR50,000, and up to six months in jail, according to the statement.
The government had previously stated that businesses and enterprises who provide services for the Hajj and Umrah and neglect to inform any pilgrims who have overstayed their visas might be fined up to SR100,000.
