A family visit visa Saudi Arabia is a vital solution for expatriates residing in the Kingdom who wish to reunite temporarily with their immediate family members. Whether you're planning a short family gathering or hosting loved ones for a few months, this visa offers a legal and structured way to make it happen. With the right guidance and documentation, the process can be completed efficiently and without stress.

What Is a Family Visit Visa for Saudi Arabia?

A family visit visa is a short-term visa granted by the Saudi government to allow the immediate family members of expatriates (residents with valid Iqama) to visit them in the Kingdom. This visa is designed purely for family visits and does not permit work or other commercial activities.

Types of Family Visit Visas:

• Single-entry visa – Valid for 30 days and extendable up to 180 days.
• Multiple-entry visa – Valid for 90 days with each visit, and extendable up to 1 year.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Only legal residents (Iqama holders) of Saudi Arabia can apply for this visa to invite close family members. Eligible family members include:

• Spouse (husband/wife)
• Children
• Parents
• Parents-in-law

Note: Distant relatives like cousins, aunts, or uncles are generally not eligible unless approved under exceptional circumstances.

Documents Required for the Family Visit Visa Application

Here is a list of essential documents you will need:

1. Iqama copy of the sponsor (resident in Saudi Arabia)
2. Valid passport copies of all visiting family members
3. Recent passport-size photos
4. Marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificates (for children) – translated and attested
5. Visa application form filled online via the MOFA website
6. MOFA approval slip
7. Employment letter of the sponsor, attested by the Chamber of Commerce
8. Proof of relationship (official, attested documents)

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Initiate Application on MOFA Portal

The sponsor must log in to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Saudi Arabia portal and fill in the electronic application in Arabic.

2. Attestation from Chamber of Commerce

Once the application is printed, it should be attested by the sponsor's company and submitted to the Chamber of Commerce for authentication.

3. MOFA Processing

After submission, MOFA processes the application. You can track the visa status online using the application/reference number.

4. Send Documents to Indian VFS or Saudi Embassy

Once approved by MOFA, the documents must be submitted at the Saudi Embassy or VFS centers in India for visa stamping.

Visa Validity and Extension Options

• Single-entry visa: Valid for 30 days. Extendable every 30 days via the Absher platform up to 180 days.
• Multiple-entry visa: Allows multiple 90-day visits. Can be extended, usually up to 1 year in total.

Important: Extensions must be done before the visa expires to avoid fines or rejection.

Processing Time and Visa Fees

• Processing Time: Typically 3–7 business days after MOFA approval, though it may vary depending on workload or document issues.
• Visa Fee: SAR 300 per applicant. Additional service charges may apply at VFS centers.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Knowing potential pitfalls can help avoid rejection. Some common reasons include:

• Incomplete or mismatched information
• Non-eligible family relationships
• Expired Iqama or sponsor’s documentation
• Failure to attest required documents
• Incorrect translation of certificates

Tips to Ensure Smooth Visa Approval

• Always translate non-English documents to Arabic or English and get them attested.
• Use the Absher portal for tracking visa status and applying for extensions.
• Plan the application in advance to avoid delays during peak holiday seasons.
• Ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and up to date.

Benefits of the Family Visit Visa

• Enables emotional and social support for expatriates
• Legal stay assurance for family members
• Renewable stay duration for extended visits
• Flexible entry options depending on visa type

Conclusion

Obtaining a family visit visa Saudi Arabia is a structured yet achievable process when approached with the right information and documentation. It serves as a bridge for families separated by borders, making reunions possible in a legal and secure manner. From initiating the application on the MOFA portal to getting your documents attested and visa stamped, each step requires precision and proper planning.

For end-to-end guidance, document attestation, and fast-tracked support, rely on BTW Visa Services – your trusted partner in seamless visa processing.