Applying for a Family Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia allows expats to invite their immediate family members to visit and stay temporarily. Whether you want your spouse, children, or parents to join you, this updated 2025 guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to help you apply without confusion.
Note: This guide is based on the latest official procedures as of 2025. Always check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) or consult your company’s HR for updates.
✅ Who Can Apply for a Saudi Family Visit Visa?
The Family Visit Visa is intended for inviting immediate family members, including:
- Spouse (Husband or Wife)
- Children
- Parents
- Parents-in-law
- Siblings (rarely approved; depends on MOFA discretion)
Note: This visa is for visiting purposes only, not for work or permanent residence, nor offering hajj in Saudi Arabia. So please keep the clear cut rules in your mind. Law in Saudi Arabia is very strict about misconduct in visit visa regulations. So avoid putting yourself in any deep trouble and strictly follow Saudi Arabian laws.
🛂 Types of Family Visit Visas
- Single Entry Visit Visa
Valid for 30 days (extendable up to 180 days). Exit and re-entry within the validity not allowed. - Multiple Entry Visit Visa
Valid for 365 days. Stay up to 90 days per visit, with multiple entries allowed. - Latest Update: Visit visa of 365 option is not available in few cases. It is a decision of Saudi Consulate / Visa Processing office in your home country to decide number of visa days.
Processing times and approval depend on MOFA discretion and the applicant’s profession in Iqama.
📝 Step-by-Step Process for Applying (2025 Updated)
Step 1: MOFA Online Application
- Visit the MOFA Visa Services Platform
- Select Individuals > Family Visit Request
- Fill in the application with:
- Applicant details (Iqama holder)
- Visitor’s personal details
- Relationship proof (e.g., marriage certificate for spouse)
- Agree to the terms and submit the request
- Print the application form
Step 2: Employer/Chamber of Commerce Attestation
Take the printed application to your company’s HR. The employer will attest the application via:
- Chamber of Commerce (for private sector employees)
- Government Portal (for public sector employees)
Note: Some companies process this step online via their portal.
Step 3: Track Application Status
Check the status on the MOFA website using:
- Application Number
- Iqa ma Number
Once approved, MOFA issues a Visa Approval Number.
Step 4: Send Documents to Family
Send the following documents to your family member(s) in their home country:
- Visa Approval Number
- Copy of your Iqama & Passport
- Visitor’s Passport copy
- Relationship proof (translated if required)
- Passport-size photographs
- Insurance documents (if needed)
Step 5: Visa Stamping from Saudi Embassy
Your family must visit an approved visa agent in their country (e.g., Etimad, VFS) with the required documents to:
- Complete medical tests (for some categories)
- Submit biometrics (if required)
- Pay visa fee and service charges
- Get visa stamped in their passport
Step 6: Flight Booking and Arrival
After visa stamping:
- Book flight tickets to Saudi Arabia
- Carry all supporting documents during travel
- Upon arrival, register the visitor’s health insurance if not pre-arranged
📌 Important Notes & Tips (2025)
- Iqama Profession matters; only eligible professions can apply (e.g., engineers, doctors, managers)
- Multiple Visit Visas are valid for 1 year; ensure exit & re-entry every 90 days
- Visit Visa holders cannot work in Saudi Arabia
- Overstaying fines apply for expired visas
- MOFA approval timelines vary—typically 2 to 7 working days
💰 Family Visit Visa Costs (Approximate)
| Item | Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee (Single Entry) | 300 – 500 SAR |
| Visa Fee (Multiple Entry) | 500 – 1000 SAR |
| Insurance (per person) | 50 – 200 SAR |
| Medical Test (if needed) | Varies by country |
| Service Center Charges | Varies by agent |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change.
📄 Required Documents Checklist
- Passport copy of applicant and visitors
- I qama copy of applicant
- Visa application form (MOFA approved)
- Relationship proof (marriage/birth certificates)
- Photographs (passport-size)
- Health Insurance for visitors
🎯 Final Thoughts
Getting a Family Visit Visa is straightforward if you follow the steps and ensure all documents are accurate. Always check the latest rules through the MOFA portal or your HR department before starting the process.
For questions or sharing your experience, comment below or explore more guides on ProSaudi.com.