Saudi Family Residence: Saudi Arabia offers a myriad of visas for nationals, residents, and expatriates, as provided by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). One such crucial visa is the Saudi Family Residence Visa, enabling authorized expatriates to bring their immediate family members into the country. This article will provide a comprehensive guide about the Saudi Family Residence Visa, its requirements, costs, processing time, and more.
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Latest News on the Saudi Family Residence Visa
In an attempt to automate consular services and streamline the visa granting process, Saudi Arabia has introduced e-visas to replace traditional visa stickers. Initially launched in seven countries, including India, this innovative policy uses QR codes to read the visa data instead of stickers traditionally placed on passports.
Understanding the Saudi Family Residence Visa
A Saudi Family Residence Visa or Family Residency Visa permits relatives of work residents in Saudi Arabia to migrate to the country. Eligible family members include spouses, sons under 18, and unmarried daughters, given proof of marital status.
It is crucial to note that the Family Residence Visa doesn’t grant the right to seek employment in Saudi Arabia, and holders of these visas need exit visas to leave the Kingdom.
Requirements for the Saudi Family Residence Visa
Applicants for the Saudi Family Residence Visa need to meet specific requirements, such as:
- A valid original passport with at least two consecutive blank visa pages
- An online application filled out on Enjaz
- A visa referral note from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or its branches in Jeddah or Dammam
- Proof of kinship: a marriage certificate for spouses and a birth certificate for children
- Documented proof of legal residence in the family member’s residing country
- A medical report in triplicate certifying the applicant is free from contagious diseases, with all lab results, and three passport-sized colored photos
- Notarized letter for minors (under 18 years) travelling alone or with one parent
Children under 16 years old do not require a medical report.
Processing Time and Fee for the Saudi Family Residence Visa
The processing time for a Saudi family residence visa is typically 2-7 working days. However, the exact processing time may vary depending on the workload of the embassy or consulate where you are applying, as well as the availability of supporting documents.
The visa fee for a Saudi family residence visa is SAR 50 (approximately US$ 13). This fee is payable when you submit your visa application.
In addition to the visa fee, there are also monthly fees associated with a Saudi family residence visa. These fees are as follows:
- Permanent family visa: SR 2,000 per month
- Single exit/re-entry visa: SR 200 for the first 2 months, and SR 100 for each additional month
- Multiple exit/re-entry visa: SR 500 for the first 3 months, and SR 200 for each additional month
The monthly fees are payable to the Saudi government. They are used to cover the cost of providing medical care, education, and other social services to visa holders.
How to Apply for the Saudi Family Residence Visa?
Applicants for the Saudi Family Residence Visa can use one of the following methods:
- Apply in person at the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Send the application by mail to the embassy’s address in your country
- Through the embassy’s authorized travel agencies (only for US citizens)
Here are the steps on how to apply for a Saudi family residence visa:
- Gather the required documents.
- Fill out the visa application form.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Submit your application to the embassy or consulate.
- Wait for your visa to be processed.
Read Also : How to Apply For Residency in Qatar: An Overview of Qatar Residence Visa 2023
The required documents for a Saudi family residence visa include:
- Your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- A completed visa application form
- A copy of your sponsor’s iqama (Saudi residence permit)
- Proof of your relationship to your sponsor (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
- Medical certificate
You can find more information on the Saudi family residence visa on the website of the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate in your country.
In conclusion, the Saudi Family Residence Visa offers a golden opportunity for expats working in Saudi Arabia to bring their immediate family members into the country. By understanding the latest updates, requirements, and application process, you can make this migration smooth and stress-free.
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