Saudi Family Visit Visa: Complete Guide for Applicants

The Saudi Family Visit Visa allows eligible individuals to invite their immediate family members to visit Saudi Arabia for a short-term stay. This visa is commonly used by residents and citizens of Saudi Arabia who wish to reunite with their loved ones for family visits, special occasions, or extended stays.

This comprehensive guide explains what the Saudi Arabia Family Visa is, who can apply, required documents, application steps, fees, validity, and common reasons for rejection—helping applicants understand the process clearly before applying.

What Is a Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa?

A Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa is a temporary visa issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that allows eligible family members of Saudi residents or citizens to enter the country for a limited period. The visa is designed strictly for family visits and does not permit employment or business activities.

This visa can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, depending on approval and eligibility.

Who Can Apply for a Saudi Family Visa?

The Saudi Family Visit Visa is available to individuals who are sponsored by a family member legally residing in Saudi Arabia.

Eligible sponsors include:

• Saudi citizens

• Legal residents of Saudi Arabia (Iqama holders)

Eligible family members:

• Spouse

• Children

• Parents

• Siblings

Applicants must provide official proof of relationship and meet Saudi immigration requirements.

Types of Saudi Family Visit Visas

There are two main types of Saudi family visit visas:

Single-Entry Family Visit Visa

• Valid for one entry

• Usually issued for short-term stays

• Can sometimes be extended

Multiple-Entry Family Visit Visa

• Allows multiple entries

• Valid for several months

• Suitable for frequent family visits

Visa type approval depends on sponsor eligibility and documentation.

Documents Required for Saudi Family Visit Visa

Applicants must submit accurate and complete documents to avoid delays or rejection.

Required documents include:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

• Passport-size photographs

• Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificate)

• Invitation letter from Saudi sponsor

• Copy of sponsor’s Saudi ID or Iqama

• Completed visa application form

• Travel insurance (if required)

All documents must match official records and may need translation or attestation.

Step-by-Step Saudi Family Visit Visa Application Process

While the exact process may vary by country, the general application steps include:

1. Saudi sponsor submits an invitation request through official channels.

2. Invitation approval is issued by Saudi authorities.

3. Applicant completes the visa application using the approved invitation.

4. Required documents are submitted to the visa processing center.

5. Visa fees are paid.

6. Passport is stamped upon approval.

Processing times depend on application accuracy and approval status.

Saudi Family Visit Visa Fees

Saudi family visit visa fees vary depending on:

• Visa type (single or multiple entry)

• Duration of stay

• Government regulations at the time of application

Applicants should always confirm the latest fees before applying, as charges may change.

Validity & Extension of Saudi Family Visa

The validity of a Saudi Family Visit Visa depends on the type issued. Some visas allow extensions, while others require the visitor to exit Saudi Arabia before reapplying.

Extensions are subject to Saudi immigration approval and must be requested before the visa expires.

Common Reasons for Saudi Family Visa Rejection

Visa applications may be rejected due to:

• Incomplete or incorrect documents

• Invalid relationship proof

• Passport validity issues

• Errors in application details

• Previous immigration violations

Ensuring document accuracy significantly improves approval chances.

Important Rules for Family Visitors in Saudi Arabia

Visitors holding a Saudi family visit visa must:

• Follow Saudi laws and cultural regulations

• Avoid employment or business activities

• Exit the country before visa expiry

• Carry valid identification at all times

Failure to comply may result in penalties or future visa issues.

FAQs

Q1: Is the Saudi Family Visit Visa a work visa?

No, it is strictly for family visits only.

Q2: Can a Saudi family visit visa be extended?

Some visas may be extended, subject to approval.

Q3: How long does processing take?

Processing time varies based on application accuracy and approval.

Q4: Can I apply without an invitation?

No, a valid invitation from a Saudi sponsor is mandatory.

Applying from the UAE?

If you are planning to apply from the UAE, you can check our detailed guide on Saudi family visit visa from Abu Dhabi to understand the local process and requirements.