Saudi Arabia has introduced a new measure allowing eligible skilled expatriates to process entry visas for their family members while completing their own work visa procedures.
The Ministry of Interior announced the measure in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
The change is intended to make it easier for qualified expatriate workers to relocate to Saudi Arabia with their families instead of completing the two visa processes separately.
Who Can Bring Family Members Under the New Process?
Eligible skilled expatriates who are heads of households can apply to bring qualifying family members to Saudi Arabia.
The eligible family members include:
- A spouse
- Sons under the age of 25
- Unmarried daughters
Applicants must still meet the applicable requirements and conditions for family entry visas.
Family Visas Can Be Processed Alongside the Work Visa
The main change is that eligible family members’ entry visas can now be processed at the same time as the skilled expatriate’s work visa procedures.
Previously, workers could face a longer process before beginning procedures to bring their family members to the Kingdom.
Under the new measure, qualifying expatriates do not necessarily have to wait until their own work visa process and post-arrival residency procedures are fully completed before applying for eligible family members.
This can make the relocation process more convenient for professionals moving to Saudi Arabia with their families.
What Happens After the Family Arrives in Saudi Arabia?
The visas issued under this process allow eligible family members to enter Saudi Arabia.
After arrival, their residence permit procedures can be completed in accordance with the Kingdom’s applicable laws, regulations and official requirements.
In other words, the new measure simplifies the timing of the family entry visa process, while residency formalities are still completed after arrival.
Which Government Authorities Are Involved?
The initiative is being implemented through coordination between three Saudi government authorities:
- Ministry of Interior
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
The Ministry of Interior said the measure forms part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to improve the quality of life for people living in the Kingdom.
What Does the New Family Visa Rule Mean for Skilled Expats?
For eligible expatriate professionals, the biggest benefit is the ability to begin family relocation procedures earlier.
Instead of first completing the worker’s full relocation process and then starting the family visa process, qualifying workers may process eligible family members’ entry visas alongside their own employment visa procedures.
However, approval is still subject to meeting the required conditions and completing the relevant application procedures.
Quick Summary
| Requirement | New Rule |
|---|---|
| Eligible worker | Skilled or qualified expatriate head of household |
| Spouse | Eligible |
| Sons | Eligible if under 25 |
| Daughters | Eligible if unmarried |
| Family entry visa timing | Can be processed alongside work visa |
| Residence permit | Completed after arrival in Saudi Arabia |
| Application requirements | Must still be fulfilled |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can skilled expats bring their families while their Saudi work visa is being processed?
Yes. Eligible skilled expatriates can now process entry visas for qualifying family members while completing their own work visa procedures.
Which family members are eligible?
The announced categories include spouses, sons under 25, and unmarried daughters.
Do family members receive their residence permit before entering Saudi Arabia?
No. Residence permit procedures are completed after the family members enter Saudi Arabia according to the applicable regulations.
Does the new rule apply automatically to every expatriate worker?
No. The announcement applies to eligible skilled or qualified expatriate heads of households who meet the required application conditions.
Which ministries are involved in the new process?
The initiative involves the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
Final Takeaway
Saudi Arabia’s new family visa measure gives eligible skilled expatriates greater flexibility when relocating to the Kingdom.
Qualifying workers can process entry visas for their spouses, sons under 25, and unmarried daughters alongside their own work visa procedures, provided all requirements are met.
Residence permit procedures for family members are then completed after they enter Saudi Arabia under the applicable regulations.
