Steps for Obtaining a Family Visa in Riyadh: Your Complete Guide 2025

Navigating the process of obtaining a family visa in Riyadh can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely manageable. Whether you’re reuniting with loved ones or planning to bring your family to Saudi Arabia, this guide breaks down every step clearly. Let’s dive into the essential steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free.

Understanding the Basics of a Family Visa in Riyadh

Before diving into the steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh, it’s crucial to understand what this visa entails. A family visa allows expatriates living and working in Saudi Arabia to sponsor their immediate family members, including spouses, children, and sometimes parents. The process involves specific requirements, documentation, and approvals from Saudi authorities.

Key points to know:

The sponsor (usually the employed expatriate) must meet salary and profession requirements.
Family members must pass medical and background checks.
The visa validity and renewal process depends on the sponsor’s residency status.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for a Family Visa in Riyadh

The first of the steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh is confirming your eligibility. Saudi Arabia has strict criteria for sponsors:

Employment Status: You must hold a valid work permit (Iqama) and be employed in a recognized profession.
Minimum Salary: Your monthly salary must meet the threshold set by the Ministry of Labor (often SAR 3,500–5,000).
Accommodation: Proof of suitable housing for your family is mandatory.

Pro Tip: Check with your employer or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for updates on salary requirements, as these can change.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents for the Family Visa Application

Documentation is a critical part of the steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh. Missing paperwork can delay the process, so organize these essentials:

Sponsor’s Documents:
Valid Iqama (residency permit) and passport.
Employment contract and salary certificate.
Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or ownership deed).
Family Members’ Documents:
Passports with at least six months’ validity.
Marriage certificate (attested by the Saudi Embassy).
Birth certificates for children (attested).
Passport-sized photos with a white background.

Note: All foreign documents must be translated into Arabic and attested by the Saudi Embassy in your home country.

Step 3: Submit Your Family Visa Application

Once your documents are ready, follow these steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh:

Visit Absher Platform: Saudi Arabia’s online portal, Absher, allows you to submit visa applications electronically.
Complete the Application: Fill in details for each family member and upload scanned copies of documents.
Pay Fees: The application fee ranges from SAR 300–500, depending on the family member’s age and relationship.

Did You Know? Using Absher saves time compared to in-person submissions. Keep a digital payment method handy!

Step 4: Medical Checkups and Biometric Enrollment

After approval, your family members must complete:

Medical Tests: Conducted at approved centers in their home country. Tests include blood work and chest X-rays for diseases like HIV and tuberculosis.
Biometric Enrollment: Fingerprints and photographs are taken at the Saudi embassy or visa center.

Warning: Failing the medical test will result in visa denial. Address health issues beforehand.

Step 5: Receive the Visa and Travel to Riyadh

Once cleared, the visa is stamped on your family member’s passport. They must:

Enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of visa issuance.
Ensure their passport is valid for at least six months.

Upon arrival:

Complete fingerprint verification at the airport.
Apply for family member Iqamas within 90 days.

Step 6: Finalize Residency (Iqama) for Your Family

The last of the steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh is securing the Iqama:

Visit the Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports) office with your family.
Submit passports, medical reports, and insurance documents.
Pay the Iqama fee (SAR 500–1,000 per person).

Bonus Tip: Enroll in health insurance for your family immediately—it’s mandatory for residency.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with clear steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh, hurdles can arise:

Document Attestation Delays: Start this process early to avoid hold-ups.
Salary Requirements: Negotiate with your employer if your salary is slightly below the threshold.
Medical Issues: Treat any health concerns before applying.

FAQs About Family Visas in Riyadh

Q: Can I sponsor my parents?
A: Yes, if you meet higher salary requirements (typically SAR 10,000+).

Q: How long does the process take?
A: 3–6 months, depending on document processing and approvals.

Q: Is health insurance mandatory?
A: Yes, for all family members over 65.

Conclusion: Start Your Family Visa Journey Today

By following these steps for obtaining a family visa in Riyadh, you’re one step closer to reuniting with your family in Saudi Arabia. Stay organized, double-check requirements, and leverage online tools like Absher to simplify the process.