Requesting Family Visit Visa is easy nowadays, all are processed through online.
Saudi Arabia, a country rich in history and culture, welcomes expatriates to work and live within its borders. For many expatriates, having their families visit is of great importance. The Saudi government provides a family visit visa, which can be either single or multiple-entry, allowing family members to visit for a specified duration. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a family visit visa to Saudi Arabia.
Eligibility and Requirements
Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the following requirements: Suppose you have already agreed with your employer for your application and approved your request.
Important Notes: NAFATH Application installed on your mobile to log into MOFA Website
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1. Applicant: Only individuals with a valid Saudi residence permit (Iqama) can apply for a family visit visa for their immediate family members.
2. Family Members: Immediate family members eligible for a visit visa include spouses, children, parents, and parents-in-law.
3. Passport Validity: The applicant’s passport and the passports of the visiting family members must be valid for at least six months.
4. Proof of Relationship: Documents such as marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children are required to prove the relationship.
Steps to Apply For Family Visa
1. Online Application via MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Website
In this article we are using the old platform of the website so we just click x button from the popup when browsing the MOFA website.
The first step involves filling out an application on the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
1. Visit the MOFA website: Go to [MOFA website](https://visa.mofa.gov.sa).
2. Citizens and Residents: Select option for Citizens and Residents and , Choose the “Family Visit Visa Application” service. See Image below.
3. Fill Out the Application: Provide all the required information about yourself and your family members. Ensure all details are accurate.
4. Submit and Print: After filling out the form, submit the application and print the confirmation page.
Screenshots of Processing online.
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Note: Entry Visa Number sometimes gives you an error so just put 1 as from my experience just to submit the application. Click Add and fill the information details of the visitor with updated PASSPORT. After filling up and submitted you will receive an document number above the application form and keep it for future reference. Print the document on the same site.
2. Approval from Sponsor
The printed application needs to be signed and stamped by the applicant’s sponsor or employer.
1. Submit to Sponsor: Submit the printed application to your employer or sponsor for approval and have it signed.
2. Chamber of Commerce Attestation: The sponsor must get the application attested by the Chamber of Commerce. (ONLINE APPLICATION) SAR30.00 FEE
Note: Usually, it takes a week or more before the result of VISA ISSUANCE. you can visit the MOFA Website link and verify the Application number. If the information and document number was change it means it is the VISA Ready to be issued. You have to do is print and share the visa number to your invited family.
3. Visa Issuance Request & Verification
Note: In most case issuance request is done by your company once you have the printed document request with signature, your part is done, just follow up with your liaison officer/HR if they have submitted the visa request online.
After the attestation, the application must be submitted online for the visa issuance request.
1. Login to MOFA eServices: Login to your MOFA eServices account.
2. Enter the Application Number: Input the application number from the printed form.
3. Request Visa Issuance: Follow the instructions to request the issuance of the family visit visa.
4. Pay the Visa Fee
The fee for the family visit visa depends on whether it’s a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
1. Single Entry Visa: Valid for 30 days up to 90 days. Typically, the fee is around SAR 300.
2. Multiple Entry Visa: Valid for 90 days up to one year, allowing multiple entries. The fee is higher, usually around SAR 500 to SAR 800.
The fees can be paid online through the MOFA website or via authorized payment centers, or through SADAD Payment through your Bank Application in your mobile.
5. Submit Documents to the Saudi Embassy/Consulate
The final step involves submitting the required documents to the Saudi embassy or consulate in the visitor’s home country (Philippines).
Note: Before visiting VFS it is better to visit the website and check the requirements such as vaccines and other documents. CLICK HERE VFS Website PHILIPINES
Check the requirements before booking an appointment. (e.g Vaccines, etc.)
Make sure to book an appointment and bring the document.
1. Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including:
- Copy of the applicant’s Iqama.
- Copy of the applicant’s passport.
- Original and copy of the visitor’s passport.
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Printed and attested application form.
- Visa fee payment receipt. (If you did not pay from KSA, the visitor will have to pay in the Saudi consulate in Philippines.
2. Visit the Embassy/Consulate: Submit the documents to the Saudi embassy or consulate.
3. Wait for Processing: The processing time can vary but generally takes a few days to a few weeks.
Single Visa - Up to 9 months of stay, 2x renewal every 3 month of SAR100 + Insurance like Alrahji Takaful Visit Visa Insurance(SAR500+).
Multiple Visa - Required to go exit from KSA, such as Bahrain which is the nearest border in Khobar.
Tips and Important Information
- Check for Updates: Visa regulations and procedures can change, so always check for the latest information on the MOFA website or consult with your sponsor.
- Ensure Accuracy: Any discrepancies in the application form or documents can lead to delays or rejection.
- Follow Up: Keep track of your application status through the MOFA website or contact the embassy/consulate if needed.
Conclusion
Applying for a family visit visa to Saudi Arabia involves several steps, from online application to document submission at the embassy. By following this guide, you can navigate the process smoothly, ensuring your loved ones can visit you in the Kingdom. Whether opting for a single or multiple-entry visa, proper preparation and adherence to the requirements are key to a successful application.
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