Syrians on Haj Umrah visas can stay on

(MENAFN- Arab News) The Kingdom has decided to allow Syrians to stay in the country without iqamas as long as their visit Haj or Umrah visas are valid but they would have to correct their status later.

According to the Minister of Justice Mohammed Al-Issa the ministry would allow Syrians holding these visas to live here legally. Sources indicate the ministry asked the General Directorate of Passports to inquire into the possibility of granting Syrians this concession.

'The Directorate General of Passports replied that this would be permissible as long as the visit visa granted to the individual is valid' said sources quoted by the local media.

The ministry issued a circular to all courts ordering them to implement the decision for eligible Syrians.

The new decision comes after the Ministry of Interior exempted Syrian workers in violation of the residency or labor regulations from deportation during inspection campaigns.

Maj. Gen. Mansour Al-Turki the security spokesman at the ministry said the current circumstances in Syria do not allow for the deportation of Syrians in violation of regulations and the ministry will allow violators an opportunity to correct their status.

Last week Prince Mohammed bin Naif minister of Interior called on the general supervisor of the Saudi national campaign to support Syrians to cover tuition expenses for children of Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

A number of officials praised these humanitarian efforts while many refugees in Lebanon sent letters and telegrams in which they expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the support to allow their children to continue their education in Lebanese schools.