In these extenuating circumstances, we are predicting that extensions will be granted.

Nevertheless, we will use our local PRO network to confirm the current position directly with the relevant government authorities as soon as offices reopen on Monday, March 2. We will share a further update as soon as this is confirmed.

We will use our local PRO network to confirm the current position directly with the relevant government authorities as soon as offices reopen on Monday, March 2. We will share a further update as soon as this is confirmed.

We are reaching out to relevant embassies/consulates and local authorities, where appropriate, to understand what support may be available, including whether emergency travel documentation may be issued in urgent cases.

We recommend that affected individuals and employers:

• confirm their current visa status (if a tracked employee or dependent with Vialto, we will have this information);
• confirm which embassy/consulate currently holds the passport;
• assess whether there is any urgent or essential travel requirement; and
• contact us so we can help review the available options and possible escalation routes based on the specific circumstances.

We will share further updates as more information becomes available.

If embassy staff are operating under a “shelter in place” instruction, this would generally indicate that the closure is security-related rather than an administrative delay. In these circumstances, it is not possible to assume reopening the following day.

We recommend monitoring official embassy communications closely and reassessing once further updates are issued.

We therefore would not recommend attempting to cross a land border (including to a neighbouring country) while the valid passport remains with the embassy. Doing so may result in refusal at the border and could create additional complications.

• revised collection procedures;
• reduced operating capacity; or
• delays linked to the reason the passport was submitted (for example, visa or consular processing status).

For this reason, immediate retrieval cannot be assumed, even after reopening. We recommend checking the embassy’s official communications and confirming collection arrangements directly (or through support channels) once services resume.

Recommended interim steps include:

• Do not attempt border travel until the valid passport has been returned.
• Monitor official embassy communications closely for reopening and passport collection updates.
• If the closure becomes prolonged, consider whether the individual’s home country consulate may be able to advise on emergency travel documentation or other support options (subject to eligibility and local requirements).
• Contact us so we can help review the circumstances and support with enquiries/escalation where appropriate.

At present, the most practical approach is to remain in-country and continue monitoring updates until clearer guidance becomes available.

In many cases, it is possible to renew an employee’s Iqama (Residence Permit) and Exit/Re-Entry Permit while the individual is outside Saudi Arabia, subject to the employee’s status and the employer’s ability to process the renewal through the relevant systems and authorities.

Please contact us with the employee’s details and expiry dates, and we can review the specific circumstances and advise on the available renewal options.

If an extension cannot be granted, it may still be possible to request written confirmation or evidence that the traveller has notified the authorities and sought guidance. This may be helpful to retain and present when departing the country, if needed.

We also recommend that travellers:

• keep records of cancelled flights, rebooking attempts, and airline communications; and
• avoid leaving the airport/immigration area (where applicable) without understanding the potential immigration implications.

Vialto can assist with contacting local authorities and supporting extension requests, where possible, depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances.

Whether an employee or family members should leave an affected country will depend on the specific circumstances, including:

• local security conditions;
• official travel and embassy guidance;
• airport/airspace operational status; and
• the individual’s immigration/travel documentation status.

We recommend that employers and employees do not make travel decisions based on unverified information and continue to monitor official updates closely.

Please reach out to your Vialto contact for further guidance based on the relevant location and circumstances.