What is the criterion for the duration of a migrant worker's separation from his wife?

Question:
Is it permissible for a husband to be away from his wife for more than six months because he is in Saudi Arabia and she is in Egypt?

Answer:
This varies depending on the circumstances. One may be compelled to extend the period, or it may be shortened. There is no fixed limit for travel. It is narrated that 'Umar ibn al-Khattab set a limit of six months for soldiers, but there is no clear evidence for this. That is to say, a person may need more than six months to seek a livelihood, while two or three months may suffice for another.
In any case, one should consider the public benefit, fear Allah, and strive to do what is right. If he fears for his family, he should not be absent for six months; he should work with them in their country, or they should travel with him, or the period should be less than six months, such as two or three months. He should seek the best course, for he knows himself best, knows his family best, and knows the risks best. Therefore, the period is not fixed at six months, nor two, nor three, but depends on the circumstances.