Maid fails to get exit visa after sponsor’s death (Saudi Arabia)

[davidinalameda]

Lawyers and human rights activists have demanded changes to sponsorship rules after a housemaid in Taif was reportedly denied a final exit visa after the death of her sponsor.

Taif passport police were alleged to have told the Asian maid to transfer sponsorship to her employer’s son before she could leave the Kingdom.

Lawyers have slammed the decision and said housemaids should be granted a final exit visa if their sponsor dies.

Jeddah Law Center Chairman Awad Al-Hibaili is among those calling for changes to sponsorship rules. “Authorities should give the employee the option to go home on a final exit visa or to transfer sponsorship,” he said.

http://arabnews.com/saudiarabia/article96128.ece

[riderinthestorm]

1. Slavery. Sorry but that is what this reminds me of.

That maid is stuck there without recourse, and unable to leave after her sponsor dies? That's bullshit. Maids in KSA are treated abysmally. The family she works for will ensure she is virtually enslaved forever if this rule stands (which I'm sure it will knowing the despicable actions of the KSA in regards to slavery).

[Travis_0004]

2. There is no need for an exit visa

Why does any county need an exit visa? If you don't have any warrants for your arrest, you should be free to leave at any time.

[riderinthestorm]

3. This is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

They operate differently than virtually anywhere else on the face of the planet, with the overt and covert support of the US. We let them get away with this shit since we need their oil.