Saudi Arabia Family Visa for Spouses and Children

Saudi Arabia is a country that is rich in culture, history, and economic opportunities. Many foreign nationals working in Saudi Arabia may want to bring their families to stay with them temporarily. Fortunately, Saudi Arabia offers a family visit visa to help unite families. If you’re wondering how to apply for a family visit visa, this guide will provide you with all the necessary details and steps to ensure a smooth process. For more in-depth information about Saudi Arabia’s visa policies, you can also check out the SAUDI ARABIA FAMILY VISA page.

What is a Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa?

A Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa allows foreign nationals to bring their family members to Saudi Arabia for a short visit. The visa is typically granted for a duration ranging from one to three months, depending on the circumstances. Family members eligible for this visa include spouses, children, parents, and siblings of expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia. It is important to note that this visa is not meant for permanent residency; it’s a temporary visa that allows your family to stay with you during your time in Saudi Arabia.

Eligibility Criteria for a Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa

Before applying for a Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Sponsorship Requirement: The applicant must have a legal sponsor in Saudi Arabia, such as an employer or a relative who holds a valid residency permit (Iqama).
   
2. Valid Passport: The family members applying for the visa must have valid passports with at least six months of validity remaining.
   
3. Relationship Proof: You will need to provide documents proving your relationship with the family members you wish to bring to Saudi Arabia (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, etc.).
   
4. Employment Status: The sponsor must be employed in Saudi Arabia and should be earning a sufficient income to support the family members during their stay. Employers typically provide documentation of employment, which will be required for the visa application.
   
5. Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 18 are eligible for the family visit visa. However, parents must be above 60 years to apply for the visa.
   

How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa

Applying for a family visit visa to Saudi Arabia involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

To apply for a Saudi Family Visit Visa, you will need to gather the following documents:

• A copy of your valid passport (for both the sponsor and family members)
  
• A copy of your Saudi residency permit (Iqama)
  
• Proof of your relationship with the family members (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
  
• A recent passport-sized photograph of each applicant
  
• A copy of your employment contract or proof of income in Saudi Arabia
  

Step 2: Submit an Application through the Saudi Visa Website

Visit the official Saudi visa website or use an authorized visa service provider. You will need to fill out an online application form, which includes personal details and the purpose of the visit.

Additionally, the sponsor may need to provide a visa request letter or an invitation letter to support the application. After submitting the online application, you will need to pay the required visa fee.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

After submitting your application, the next step is to wait for approval from the Saudi authorities. The processing time for a family visit visa can vary, but it typically takes 5 to 7 business days. During this time, the Saudi authorities will verify your documents and make a decision on your application.

Step 4: Visa Issuance

If your visa is approved, the family members will receive the visa electronically. They will need to print out the visa and present it when arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Step 5: Arrival in Saudi Arabia

Upon arrival, family members will undergo a medical checkup at the airport to ensure they are fit for travel. Once cleared, they will be allowed entry into Saudi Arabia. Be sure to keep a copy of the visa and supporting documents throughout the stay.

Things to Keep in Mind

1. Visa Extensions: A family visit visa can be extended while in Saudi Arabia, but only for a specific duration, and the process must be completed before the initial visa expires.
   
2. Validity of Family Visit Visa: Ensure your family members leave Saudi Arabia before their visa expires to avoid penalties or complications with future visa applications.
   
3. Overstay Fines: If your family overstays their visa in Saudi Arabia, they may face fines or be banned from applying for future visas.
   

Conclusion

Bringing your family to Saudi Arabia on a visit visa is a great way to reunite with loved ones while you’re working abroad. By following the correct process and ensuring all your documents are in order, you can make the application process much smoother. If you want to learn more about the latest updates regarding family visit visas and other Saudi Arabia visa types, you can visit the SAUDI VISA BLOG for additional information and tips.