Introduction
Saudi Arabia, with its rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and vast deserts, has become an attractive destination for expatriates and their families. Whether you’re moving for work, reuniting with family members, or planning an extended visit, understanding the family visa process is crucial. This guide provides detailed information on how to SAUDI ARABIA FAMILY VISA.
Types of Family Visas
- Family Visit Visa
- For short-term visits to family members residing in Saudi Arabia.
- Typically valid for three months but can be extended up to six months.
- Family Residence Visa (Iqama)
- For long-term residency with family members who are legal residents or citizens of Saudi Arabia.
- Typically valid for the duration of the sponsor’s residency permit.
Eligibility Criteria
Family Visit Visa
- The applicant must be a direct family member (spouse, parent, child) of a legal resident or citizen of Saudi Arabia.
- The sponsor must have a valid residency permit (Iqama).
Family Residence Visa (Iqama)
- The applicant must be a direct family member (spouse, parent, child) of a legal resident or citizen of Saudi Arabia.
- The sponsor must have a valid residency permit (Iqama) and meet the income requirements set by the Saudi government.
Application Process
1. Family Visit Visa Application
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Completed visa application form.
- Copy of the sponsor’s residency permit (Iqama).
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Invitation letter from the sponsor in Saudi Arabia, attested by the Chamber of Commerce.
Step 2: Submit Application Online
- Visit the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) e-portal.
- Fill out the electronic visa application form.
- Pay the visa fee online.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.
- Submit biometric data (fingerprints) if required.
Step 4: Attend the Appointment
- Bring all required documents to the appointment.
- Complete an interview, if necessary.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
- Wait for the visa processing, which typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Once approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
2. Family Residence Visa (Iqama) Application
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Completed visa application form.
- Copy of the sponsor’s residency permit (Iqama).
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Medical examination report from a certified clinic.
Step 2: Submit Application
- The sponsor should submit the application through the Saudi Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform.
- Pay the visa fee online.
Step 3: Obtain Visa Authorization
- The sponsor should obtain the visa authorization number from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Step 4: Submit Visa Application at the Embassy
- Submit the visa application at the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate, along with all required documents and the visa authorization number.
- Complete biometric data submission (fingerprints) if required.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
- Wait for the visa processing, which typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Once approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
Important Considerations
1. Medical Examination
- Applicants for the Family Residence Visa must undergo a medical examination from an authorized clinic. The results should be included with the application.
2. Translation and Attestation
- All documents not in Arabic must be translated and attested by the relevant authorities.
3. Travel Insurance
- It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and repatriation.
4. Renewal and Extension
- The Family Visit Visa can be extended through the MOFA e-portal, subject to approval.
- The Family Residence Visa must be renewed along with the sponsor’s residency permit (Iqama).
Conclusion
Obtaining a SAUDI VISA BLOG requires careful preparation and adherence to the application process. Whether you’re applying for a short-term visit or long-term residency, ensuring all documents are in order and understanding the requirements will help facilitate a smooth application process. By following this guide, you can successfully navigate the visa application and look forward to reuniting with your family in Saudi Arabia.