Who Is Eligible For Family Visa In Saudi Arabia? Fees, Process Covered
The Saudi family residence visa, also known as a dependent visa, is a vital document for expatriates in Saudi Arabia who wish to bring their immediate family members to live with them. This visa is intended for spouses, sons under the age of 18, and unmarried daughters, allowing them to reside in the Kingdom legally. Before applying for the family visa, the expatriate sponsor must first obtain authorization from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Who is Eligible for a Family Visa in Saudi Arabia?
To understand who is eligible for a family visa in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to note that this visa is primarily available to the immediate family members of expatriates legally employed in Saudi Arabia. Eligible family members include the spouse, sons under 18 years old, and unmarried daughters. Applicants must provide proof of relationship, such as a marriage certificate for spouses or birth certificates for children, during the application process. Additionally, the expatriate sponsor must obtain prior approval from MOFA before initiating the visa application.
Key Features of the Saudi Family Residence Visa
The Saudi residence visa for family members has seen a significant change with the introduction of electronic visas (e-visas). Traditional visa stickers have been replaced with QR codes, which are now used to streamline the visa application process. This change applies to several countries, including India, as part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to digitize consular services. The e-visa allows for quicker data processing, making immigration procedures more efficient.
However, it is crucial to note that the family residence visa Saudi Arabia does not permit visa holders to seek employment within the Kingdom. Additionally, visa holders must obtain an exit visa before leaving Saudi Arabia. The exit/re-entry visas can be extended online while abroad through platforms like Absher or Muqeem, provided the passport has at least 90 days of validity for exit/re-entry visas and 60 days for final exit visas.
Requirements for Family Visa in Saudi Arabia
Applying for a dependent visa in Saudi Arabia involves meeting specific criteria. The required documents include:
- An original passport valid for at least six months, with two consecutive blank visa pages.
- A completed online visa application form accessible through the MOFA website.
- A visa referral note from MOFA or its branches in Jeddah or Dammam, detailing the visa number and date.
- Proof of relationship to the sponsoring expatriate, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Proof of legal residency in the country where the family member currently resides.
- A medical report from a licensed physician confirming the applicant is free from contagious diseases, along with three passport-size photos with a white background. Medical reports must be less than three months old.
- Children under 16 are exempt from the medical report requirement.
- A notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian if a minor (under 18 years) is traveling alone or with one parent.
Saudi Family Residence Visa Fees and Processing Time
When applying for a Saudi permanent family visa, understanding the fee structure is essential. The Saudi Arabia family visa fees are approximately SAR 50 (around USD 13). The processing time for the visa typically ranges from 2 to 7 working days, depending on various factors, including the accuracy of the submitted documents, the applicant’s country of origin, and compliance with Saudi Arabia’s residency regulations, such as maintaining a valid Saudi Arabia Iqama.
It’s also important to be aware of labor laws like Article 77 of the Saudi Labor Law, which outlines employee rights and employer obligations. Although this article primarily addresses employment termination, understanding it can be valuable for expatriates as they navigate residency and employment in Saudi Arabia. Adhering to these laws and ensuring that all necessary documentation is accurate and complete will help expedite the family visa process and avoid any legal complications.
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Where to Apply for a Saudi Family Residence Visa
Applicants can apply for the family residence visa Saudi Arabia through several channels:
- In-Person: At the Saudi Arabian Embassy in the applicant’s home country.
- By Mail: Directly to the Embassy’s address.
- Through Authorized Agencies: Particularly for U.S. citizens, applications can be submitted via travel agencies authorized by the Saudi Embassy.
Common Challenges and Solutions in the Saudi Family Residence Visa Application Process
Applying for a Saudi family residence visa can be complex, with various challenges arising during the process. Common issues include document verification, delays in approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), and misunderstandings regarding eligibility requirements.
Solutions:
- Document Verification: Ensure all documents, such as marriage and birth certificates, are properly authenticated and translated into Arabic if required. It’s advisable to consult with the Saudi Embassy or a legal expert to confirm the specific requirements.
- Approval Delays: To avoid delays, make sure all forms are accurately filled out and submitted through the correct channels. Regular follow-ups with MOFA can also help expedite the process.
- Eligibility Confusion: Clearly understanding who is eligible for a family visa in Saudi Arabia is crucial. Refer to official guidelines and consult with immigration experts to clarify any doubts about eligibility criteria.
How to Track Your Saudi Family Residence Visa Application
Tracking the progress of your Saudi family residence visa application is crucial to staying informed about its status. Applicants can use the Enjaz or MOFA e-portal to monitor their visa status online.
Steps to Track Your Visa:
- Visit the official MOFA or Enjaz website.
- Enter your application number or passport number in the designated field.
- Review the current status and any additional requirements.
This tracking process is especially useful if there are delays or if additional documents are requested. Keeping track of your Saudi residence visa for family application ensures that you can respond promptly to any updates from the authorities.
Renewing the Saudi Family Residence Visa: What You Need to Know
Renewing a Saudi family residence visa is a necessary process for families wishing to continue their stay in Saudi Arabia. The renewal process requires the sponsor to ensure that the iqama (residence permit) is valid and that the visa holder meets all renewal requirements.
Key Considerations for Renewal:
- Validity of Iqama: The iqama of the sponsor must be valid at the time of renewal.
- Passport Validity: Ensure the passport of the dependent is valid for at least six months.
- Renewal Fees: Pay the required renewal fees through platforms like Absher.
- Timely Submission: Submit the renewal application well before the expiration date to avoid fines or penalties.
Understanding these requirements is crucial for maintaining legal residency status in Saudi Arabia. Failing to renew the visa on time can result in fines or the need to exit the country.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Saudi Family Residence Visa Holders
Holders of a Saudi family residence visa have specific rights and responsibilities while residing in the Kingdom. It’s important for both the sponsor and the dependent visa holders to be aware of these to ensure compliance with Saudi laws.
Rights:
- Residence: Visa holders are allowed to reside legally in Saudi Arabia.
- Access to Services: Dependents have access to healthcare, education, and other public services.
Responsibilities:
- No Employment: Family visa holders are not permitted to work in Saudi Arabia. They must obtain a separate work visa if they wish to be employed.
- Compliance with Laws: Dependents must adhere to all Saudi regulations, including cultural and social norms.
Understanding these rights and responsibilities is essential for a smooth and lawful stay in Saudi Arabia.
Understanding the Exit/Re-Entry Visa Process for Family Visa Holders
Family visa holders in Saudi Arabia must obtain an exit/re-entry visa if they wish to temporarily leave the country. The process is managed through the Absher platform and involves several key steps.
Steps to Obtain an Exit/Re-Entry Visa:
- Log into Absher: Access the Absher platform using the sponsor’s account.
- Select Exit/Re-Entry Visa: Choose the relevant option and enter the necessary details.
- Fee Payment: Pay the applicable fees, which can vary depending on the duration of the exit/re-entry visa.
- Validity of Documents: Ensure the dependent’s iqama and passport are valid for the required period.
The exit/re-entry visa allows the visa holder to leave Saudi Arabia and return within a specified period. It’s important to note that failing to return within this period can result in penalties or cancellation of the family residence visa.
Additional Considerations for the Saudi Family Residence Visa
It’s essential to meet all requirements for a family visa in Saudi Arabia, including ensuring that the expatriate’s iqama (residence permit) is valid and that the passport has at least six months of validity left. The transition to e-visas, which replace traditional visa stickers, marks a significant step toward digitalization, making the visa process more efficient and user-friendly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Saudi family residence visa is a critical document for expatriates seeking to reunite with their families in Saudi Arabia. By understanding who is eligible for a family visa in Saudi Arabia, the necessary requirements, and the application process, expatriates can ensure a smooth transition for their loved ones. Staying informed about the latest updates and ensuring all documents are in order will facilitate a hassle-free family visa application experience.

Sohail Ahmed is the Chief Executive Officer at Greenland Overseas Employment Agency, where he leverages over two decades of industry expertise to drive strategic growth and international recruitment excellence. Known for his visionary leadership and commitment to ethical practices, Sohail has successfully expanded the agency’s global footprint, establishing robust partnerships and ensuring high standards of client and employee satisfaction.