For many expatriates working in Saudi Arabia, living away from family for long periods can be difficult. The Saudi government understands this need and allows eligible residents to bring their families on a permanent basis through the permanent family visa program. This type of visa allows your spouse, children, and sometimes parents to live with you legally in the Kingdom. This guide explains how to get a permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia, covering all requirements, steps, and helpful tips to make the process easier.

What Is a Permanent Family Visa in Saudi Arabia

A permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia is an official residence permit that allows family members of an expatriate employee to live in the country for an extended period. It is different from a visit visa, which is temporary and requires regular renewals. With a permanent visa, dependents receive their own residence permits or Iqamas, giving them access to healthcare, education, and other essential services in the Kingdom.

The visa is issued under the sponsorship of the working resident, who must meet specific salary and profession criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Family Visa

Not all expatriates are eligible for a permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia. The applicant must meet certain conditions set by the Ministry of Interior. Here are the key eligibility rules:

1. The applicant must hold a valid Iqama and employment contract.

2. The profession listed on the Iqama must be eligible for family sponsorship.

3. The applicant’s monthly salary should meet the required minimum, often around 5000 to 6000 Saudi Riyals.

4. The applicant must have suitable accommodation for family members.

5. The applicant’s dependents must be immediate family members, such as spouse or children.

Certain professions, like drivers, laborers, or domestic workers, are not eligible for a permanent family visa. However, professionals such as engineers, doctors, teachers, and IT specialists usually qualify.

Required Documents for Permanent Family Visa Application

Before you start the visa process, prepare all the required documents carefully. Incomplete applications are one of the main reasons for delays or rejections. Below is a list of essential documents:

1. Copy of the applicant’s Iqama and passport.

2. Copy of the family member’s passports.

3. Marriage certificate for the spouse, attested by the Saudi Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

4. Birth certificates for children, also attested.

5. Academic degree certificate of the applicant, if required for profession verification.

6. Salary certificate from the employer, stamped by the Chamber of Commerce.

7. A letter from the employer requesting family visa issuance.

8. Recent passport-size photographs of each family member.

Keep scanned copies of all documents, as most applications are now handled through online systems.

How to Apply for a Permanent Family Visa

The permanent family visa process can be completed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Absher platforms. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Log in to the MOFA website and open the section for Family Visa Application.

2. Fill in all required details, including your Iqama number, sponsor ID, and family information.

3. Submit the application and print the reference number for tracking.

4. Take the printed form to your employer or the Chamber of Commerce for stamping.

5. Once approved, visit the Absher portal to check your visa status.

6. After final approval, send the visa authorization number to your family in your home country.

7. Your family must then visit the Saudi Embassy or an authorized visa agency to stamp their passports.

Once the visa is stamped, your family can travel to Saudi Arabia and receive their residence permits after arrival.

Visa Fee and Payment Method

The permanent family visa involves several payments during the process. The main visa issuance fee is typically around 2000 Saudi Riyals per person. Additional charges may apply for medical tests, attestation, and insurance.
Payment can be made through online banking, SADAD system, or directly through the Absher platform when submitting your request. Always keep receipts for all transactions for record purposes.

Visa Processing Time and Approval Stages

The processing time for a permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on the application’s accuracy and the applicant’s profession. On average, it takes between one to four weeks for approval.
The stages usually include:

1. Submission and employer attestation.

2. Verification by the Chamber of Commerce.

3. Review and approval by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

4. Final stamping by the Saudi Embassy in the home country.

Applicants can track their status on the MOFA website using their application number.

Common Reasons for Application Rejection

Sometimes, applications are rejected due to minor issues. To avoid rejection, check the following:

• Incomplete or incorrect information in the form.

• Missing attestation on marriage or birth certificates.

• Profession on the Iqama not eligible for family sponsorship.

• Salary below the required amount.

• Documents not matching the Arabic translation.

Double-check all documents before submission to avoid unnecessary delays or rejection.

After Approval: Next Steps for Family Entry

Once your family’s visas are approved and stamped, they can travel to Saudi Arabia. At the airport, they will go through immigration and medical checks. After entry, you need to visit the nearest Jawazat office to complete the Iqama process for each family member.
You will also have to register their fingerprints, medical insurance, and residential address to activate the residence permits officially.

Renewal and Residency Process

After receiving the Iqama, your family members will have legal residency in Saudi Arabia. The Iqama must be renewed annually along with your own. You can renew their residency online through the Absher platform or by visiting Jawazat.
Ensure that their health insurance is always valid, as it is linked with the Iqama renewal process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can every expatriate apply for a permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia?
No, only those with eligible professions and sufficient income can apply.

2. How long does it take to get the visa approved?
It usually takes between one to four weeks, depending on verification and workload.

3. Can I include my parents in the family visa?
Generally, only the spouse and children are included. However, special approval can be requested for parents.

4. Is attestation necessary for all documents?
Yes, attestation from the Saudi Embassy and Foreign Affairs is mandatory for marriage and birth certificates.

5. Can my family work in Saudi Arabia under a family visa?
Family members cannot work under a dependent visa unless they change their sponsorship status.

Conclusion

Getting a permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia may seem complicated, but following the correct steps and preparing your documents properly can make it much easier. Always ensure your Iqama profession is eligible, your salary meets the required level, and all documents are attested. With careful planning, you can successfully bring your family to the Kingdom and enjoy life together under legal residency.