Introduction to Family Visit Visa Saudi Arabia
If you are planning to reunite with your family members residing in Saudi Arabia, applying for a family visit visa Saudi Arabia is essential. This visa allows expatriates working or living in the Kingdom to bring their close relatives, such as parents, spouses, and children, for a temporary visit. In this article, we will cover all the key details and steps required to apply for and manage a family visit visa Saudi Arabia.
Eligibility for Family Visit Visa Saudi Arabia
To be eligible for a family visit visa Saudi Arabia, the primary applicant must be a legal resident or citizen of Saudi Arabia. The visa is intended for close family members, including:
- Parents
- Spouse
- Children
The visa does not typically extend to more distant relatives such as cousins or friends. Additionally, the sponsor (the person residing in Saudi Arabia) must have a valid Iqama (residency permit) and meet the necessary income and accommodation requirements.
How to Apply for a Family Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia
The process of applying for a family visit visa Saudi Arabia involves several key steps:
Online Application Submission
The first step in obtaining a family visit visa Saudi Arabia is to complete the online application through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website. Here’s how you can do it:
- Access the MOFA Portal: Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Saudi Arabia website and choose the appropriate visa option.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form with accurate details, including your personal information, family member’s information, and your Iqama number.
- Submit the Application: Once the form is completed, submit the application online and make a note of the application reference number for tracking purposes.
Obtain a Letter of Invitation
After submitting your application, you will need to obtain a letter of invitation (LOI) from the Saudi employer or sponsor. This document is a crucial part of the family visit visa to Saudi Arabia application process.
Submit Required Documents
In addition to the online application, you must provide supporting documents, including:
- Copy of the Applicant’s Passport: A clear copy of the passport with a minimum validity of six months.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant.
- Iqama Copy of the Sponsor: A copy of the sponsor’s Iqama (residency permit).
- Proof of Relationship: Documents proving the relationship between the applicant and the family member in Saudi Arabia (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates).
Pay the Visa Fee
The family visit visa Saudi Arabia application requires a fee, which can be paid through the online portal or at designated visa service centers.
Submit the Application for Processing
Once all documents are in order and the fee is paid, the application can be submitted for processing. The processing time for a family visit visa Saudi Arabia typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks, depending on various factors.
Checking the Status of Your Family Visit Visa Saudi Arabia
After submitting your application, you can track the status of your family visit visa Saudi Arabia through the MOFA website. By entering your application reference number and passport details, you can see updates on your visa status.
Managing Your Family Visit Visa Saudi Arabia
Once your family visit visa Saudi Arabia is approved, it’s important to manage the visa effectively:
Visa Validity
Ensure that your family visit visa Saudi Arabia is valid for the duration of your family member’s stay. The visa is usually valid for 90 days, with the possibility of an extension.
Comply with Local Laws
Visitors on a family visit visa Saudi Arabia must adhere to the local laws and regulations during their stay. It’s essential to avoid any actions that could lead to penalties or deportation.
Visa Extension:
If your family member wishes to extend their stay, you can apply for an extension of the family visit visa Saudi Arabia through the Absher platform. Make sure to apply before the visa’s expiry date to avoid any issues.
Applying for a family visit visa Saudi Arabia can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and ensure all documents are in order. By understanding the application process, eligibility criteria, and visa management, you can facilitate a successful visit for your loved ones to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
