Saudi Arabia offers several visa options for those looking to visit the Kingdom, including family visas that allow expatriates to bring their loved ones into the country for temporary stays. This article will guide you through the process of applying for a Saudi Arabia family visa and provide additional resources to ensure a smooth and successful application.
What is a Saudi Arabia Family Visa?
A Saudi Arabia family visa, often referred to as a family visit visa, allows expatriates who work or live in Saudi Arabia to invite their family members to visit for a limited period. This visa is suitable for spouses, children, parents, and siblings of the sponsor (the person inviting the family members). It is usually issued for a duration of 30, 60, or 90 days, with options for extensions depending on the type of visa issued.
Types of Saudi Arabia Family Visas
There are two main types of family visas in Saudi Arabia:
Single-Entry Family Visit Visa: This visa allows family members to enter Saudi Arabia once, with a stay of up to 30 or 90 days. The single-entry visa is perfect for short visits or vacations.
Multiple-Entry Family Visit Visa: This visa allows family members to enter and exit Saudi Arabia multiple times during its validity, which is usually one year. The total stay in the Kingdom cannot exceed 180 days. This is ideal for family members who may need to visit frequently.
Eligibility for a Saudi Family Visa
To apply for a Saudi Arabia family visa, you need to meet certain requirements:
Sponsorship: The sponsor must be a legal resident or citizen of Saudi Arabia. They should have a valid Iqama (residency permit) and be employed in the Kingdom.
Family Relationship: Only immediate family members can apply for this visa. This typically includes the sponsor's spouse, children, parents, or siblings. Other relatives such as cousins or uncles may not be eligible.
Valid Passport: The applicant must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity at the time of application.
Purpose of Visit: The visa is strictly for visiting family members. The applicant cannot work or engage in any other professional activities while on a family visa.
Steps to Apply for a Saudi Family Visa
Applying for a family visa is a straightforward process but involves multiple steps:
1. Submit an Online Application
The first step in applying for a Saudi family visa is to submit the visa request through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website. The sponsor will need to log into the platform and complete the required information, including details about the family member(s) they wish to invite. After submitting the application, a reference number will be provided, which will be needed for further processing.
2. Attestation of Documents
Once the application is submitted, it must be attested by the sponsor's employer or the Saudi Chamber of Commerce, depending on the sponsor’s job status. This verification ensures that the information provided is accurate and that the visa request is legitimate.
3. Pay Visa Fees
After attestation, the next step is to pay the applicable visa fee. The payment can usually be made online, and the cost varies depending on whether you are applying for a single-entry or multiple-entry family visa.
4. Visit the Saudi Embassy or Consulate
After receiving the approval from MOFA, the applicant will need to visit the nearest Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate to complete the visa process. The embassy will require the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of relationship with the sponsor (e.g., marriage certificate or birth certificate)
- Copy of the sponsor’s Iqama
- Copy of the visa approval from MOFA
The visa process typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the country where the applicant is applying.
5. Arrival in Saudi Arabia
Once the visa is approved and stamped in the applicant’s passport, they can make travel arrangements to Saudi Arabia. Upon arrival, it is essential to follow the immigration procedures and ensure that all required documents are presented at the airport.
Extending a Saudi Family Visa
In some cases, visitors may wish to extend their stay in Saudi Arabia beyond the initial visa duration. Family visit visas can be extended by applying through the Absher platform, provided that the request is made before the visa’s expiry date. It’s important to note that extensions are typically granted for 30-day increments.
Common Issues and Solutions
The family visa application process can sometimes encounter delays or issues. Here are some common challenges and how to address them:
Rejection of Visa Application: If the visa application is rejected, check with the MOFA platform or the Saudi embassy for specific reasons. It could be due to incorrect information or missing documents.
Delays in Processing: Visa processing times can vary, especially during peak travel seasons like Ramadan or Hajj. It’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
Document Translation: If any documents are in a language other than Arabic or English, ensure they are translated and notarized before submission.
For more insights into the Saudi visa process, tips, and updates, you can visit the Saudi Visa Blog for the latest information and guidelines.
Conclusion
Applying for a Saudi Arabia family visa is a structured yet straightforward process. By understanding the eligibility criteria, following the steps outlined above, and preparing all required documents, you can successfully invite your family members to visit Saudi Arabia. For further guidance, make sure to consult the Saudi Visa Blog to stay updated on any changes to the visa process.
