Is there a specific period prescribed in the Shari'ah for a man who is away from his wife while seeking a livelihood and traveling, and is it prescribed in the Shari'ah that the man should ask his wife for permission regarding the period of his absence when he returns?

The questioner : This is a Sudanese resident in Saudi Arabia who asks: Is there a specific period prescribed in the Shari'ah for a man who is away from his wife while seeking a livelihood and traveling, and is it prescribed in the Shari'ah that the man should ask his wife for permission regarding the period of his absence when he returns?

The Shaykh : Yes. If a man is away from his wife in search of a livelihood with her consent and he is safe from harm to her, then there is no blame on him and no sin on him, even if the period is long. However, if she demands her right, he is allowed six months.