Saudi citizens renewing their passports must have their previous passports checked and new passports activated, while first-time passports do not require activation.
RIYADH: The Saudi Passports Directorate has clarified passport activation requirements for Saudi citizens, stating that passports issued for the first time do not require activation.
However, citizens who have renewed their passports must have their previous passports checked and their newly issued passports activated before using them, said a report of Saudi Gazette on Monday.
Passport activation requirements
According to the directorate, citizens who renew their passports can complete the checking and activation procedures at any passport office, branch office or international port of entry.
Citizens do not need a prior appointment to complete either the passport-checking or activation process.
To complete the procedure, citizens must present their previous passport and verify the activation status of their new passport through the Absher platform.
The clarification is aimed at helping citizens understand the procedures applicable to renewed passports and avoid difficulties when using their newly issued documents.
Saudi passport services available through Absher
The clarification comes as Saudi authorities continue expanding electronic government services to make passport-related procedures more accessible to citizens.
The Saudi Passports Directorate has enabled citizens to apply for and issue passports electronically through the Absher platform, reducing the need to visit passport offices during the application process.
Citizens can complete the electronic passport issuance procedure after submitting the required application and fulfilling all applicable conditions and requirements.
How to apply for a Saudi passport online
The electronic passport issuance process begins when the applicant logs into the Absher platform and selects “My Services”, followed by “Passports” and then “Issuance of Saudi Passport.”
Applicants can then submit a request to issue their passport and specify the required validity period.
They must agree to the applicable conditions and declarations before proceeding with the application.
The applicant is also required to provide a delivery address and select an available delivery method.
After reviewing the information entered in the application, the applicant can proceed with payment of the applicable passport fees.
Electronic service reduces office visits
The electronic service is designed to streamline passport issuance and renewal procedures while reducing the need for citizens to visit government offices in person.
The directorate has advised citizens who renew their passports to ensure that their previous passports are presented for checking and that their new passports are properly activated before using them.