saudi arabia family visit visa for indian citizens

Family Visit Request   //

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  Service Description

  service beneficiaries,   conditions and requirements.

• Complete the online form via  Visa services platform ​  and stamp it electronically and authenticate it from the Chamber of Commerce or from the employer.
• Enter all the data in Arabic except if​ the visitors are not from Arab nationalities, in that case their names should match their passports.
• For residents, they should have valid for residents.
• The visitors should be of first degree relatives
• Rresidents should have a work Iqamah not relative Iqamah.

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The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia

Family Visit Visa

Requirements:

• Original passport valid for no less than six (6) months, with at least two (2) successive empty visa pages.
• To fill your online application and make a visa payment, please log on to  https://visa.mofa.gov.sa .  ( Guideline for Enjaz )  Health insurance must be purchased from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Options for local health insurance providers will appear upon processing your Enjaz form.
• A visa referral note: indicating number and date of visa, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or either of its branches in Jeddah or Dammam.
• Proof of relationship between applicant and inviting party in, along with proof of relationship between applicants themselves, if any.
• Minors (under 18 years) travelling alone, or with one parent, must submit a notarized letter in Arabic or English signed by a parent or a legal guardian.
• For non-U.S. citizens, copy of green card or document confirming legal residence in the U.S.  

You May Also Apply For the Visa by: 

• Applying in person at the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Via Mail to the Embassy's address: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20037.
• Through the Embassy's authorized travel agencies .

The Complete Guide to the NEW Saudi Family Visit Visa

Recently, I invited my father to visit us in Saudi Arabia, but after asking people about it, I realized that the procedure to obtain a Family Visit Visa has changed so much that I had little idea how to apply for it. So, I decided to some research and went to speak to the experts at the local Saudi passport office in order to get acquainted.

What is a Saudi Family Visit Visa? A visit visa is intended for immediate family members based outside Saudi Arabia allowing them to visit their loved ones who are normally resident in the kingdom. Two visit visa options are available; Single entry or Multiple entry. The first is for up to 30 days ONLY and is not renewable. The second is for up to 90 days ONLY. Then, the family visitor must leave and can reenter the kingdom for a further 3 months, up to 4 times.

The Saudi visa application system was recently upgraded and streamlined. This means that all visas including the Family Visit Visa are now processed online, from start to finish. 

The Application Process- 6 Main Steps

The following shows the 6 main steps required to obtain the Family Visit Visa . These 6 steps are explained in a bit more detail in the article:

Step 2. Iqama Holder Takes the Form to Sponsor to Sign and Stamp and if needed to the local Chamber of Commerce

Step 5. Visitor Submits Passport & Documents To Local Agency Dealing With Saudi Embassy

Step 6. Visitor Collects Passport/Documents plus Issued Family Visit Visa From the Saudi Embassy             

How much does a Saudi Family Visit Visa cost?

The application process for the Family Visit Visa involves both:

• Sponsor -The Iqama Holder Normally Resident In Saudi Arabia. 
• The Visiting Family Membe r ( s )- Normally Resident In The Home Country. 

The Iqama holder’s dependents cannot themselves apply for a visit visa application using their own Iqamas.  

What Are The Conditions For Use Of The Family Visit Visa?

NOTE : With a Single Entry Family Visit Visa, the visitor (s) can stay for up to 30 days in Saudi Arabia, but it must be used WITHIN 3 months of the issue date in the passport.

Note: For a Multiple Family Visit Visa, the visitor (s) can come and go to Saudi Arabia every three months up to 1 year. Family visitors must leave the kingdom on or before 3 months expires. It should be used WITHIN 1 year of the issue date in the passport.

Who is Eligible for the Family Visit Visa? 

The following are the eligible categories: 

First Line Relatives

• Wife/Husband
• Father/Mother
• Father in Law/Mother in Law
• Orphans (discretionary)
• Brothers/Sisters of foreign wives/husbands married to Saudis

Who is NOT eligible for a Family Visit Visa?

The following categories are not eligible for a Family Visit Visa. 

Distant Relatives

• Aunts/Uncles etc
• Nieces/Nephews
• Grandparents

The Resident Iqama Holder Applies For Family Visit Visa at MOFA Online and Prints a Completed Form

Documents required BEFORE applying:

• Resident Iqama Holder’s Valid Residency Permit i.e. the Iqama
• The Iqama With At least 4 month’s Validity 
• Copy of The Applicant (s) Passport-i.e. Visiting Family Member (s)
• Valid Profession of Iqama Holder

The application procedure for the family visit visa begins at the gateway to the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) portal. Click here for the MOFA homepage.

• First, choose and click on E-Services
• Click on Residents
• Select Family Visit Visa
• Read the Service Details
• Click on Start The Service
• Choose Individuals
• Then, select Resident 
• Click I Agree if you agree to visa terms and conditions
• Enter Iqama Holder’s Residency Number (Iqama Number)
• Select Single or Multiple Entry
• Print the Form

Iqama Holder Takes the Completed Form to His/Her Sponsor to Sign and Stamp And If Needed to The Chamber of Commerce for Attestation

The sponsor then signs and stamps the document. If required for private company workers, the Saudi Chamber of Commerce can also attest it. Go there, pay 35 SR and get a printout.

Iqama Holder Checks His/Her MOFA Account To Confirm Acceptance And Sends Completed Form/Visa Number To Intending Visitor

• Select Application
• Enter Application Number
• Enter Iqama Number
• Enter Image Code
• Click Enquire
• Check Family Visit Visa Status

If yes, the Iqama holder sends a scanned copy of the completed, signed and stamped application form to the family member who is applying for the Family Visit Visa in his/her home country.

If it’s not ready, just wait. If it’s rejected, try again!

Iqama Holder/Visiting Family Member Registers, & Pays for Family Visit Visa at the Enjazat Website

For this you need:

• The Application Number
• Intending Visitor Passport Number and Applicant’s Bio Data
• MasterCard or Visa
• Intending Visitor Passport Size Photo

Family Member Visitor Submits Documents To Local Visa Agency Dealing With The Local Saudi Embassy/Consulate

There will be a local Visa Agency in your country who charges you to submit your passport and documents to the Saudi Embassy to complete the process of issuing the Family Visit Visa.

In some cases, you can do it yourself to avoid the agency fee. Embassy staff may allow you to submit your passport and documents personally at the Saudi Embassy. It has worked before for some people! Try your luck!

A list of visa application agencies is with the Embassy perhaps even on their websites.

Documents Required For the Applicant:

• Abshir Paper And Date Of Iqama Expiry
• Print out of Family Visit Visa
• Valid International Passport (Minimum 7 months validity remaining)
• Copy Of Sponsor’s Passport With 6 months validity
• Copy of Sponsor’s and Wife’s/Husband’s Passport
• Copy of Sponsor’s AND/OR Wife/Husband’s Residency Permit, the Iqama
• 4 passport size photos
• Certified Sponsor’s Marriage Certificate IF Applicant (s) is an In-laws (Attested by MOFA + One Copy)
• Certified Copy of Birth Certificate Of Son/ Daughter if Applicants (s) is an In-Laws (Attested by MOFA + One Copy) 
• Original B Form (Attested By MOFA And One Copy)
• Certified Copy of National ID Card of Applicant 
• Family Book If Necessary
• Certificate of Unmarried Female Above 18 years of Age (if required)

First, get your proof documents stamped and attested. Check how to do that in your country.

After compiling all the correct documents and checking your passport validity you can pay the agency fee and deposit your passport and documents at the Visa Agency.

The Saudi Embassy says the Family Visit Visa will be ready in up to 3 days under normal circumstances. Delays will involve requests for additional documents and/or checks

Visitor Collects Passport/Documents plus Issued Family Visit Visa From the Saudi Embassy 

The local visa agency you are dealing with will arrange an appointment for you to come to collect your passport with issued Family Visit Visa and the documents. It can take up to 3 days or more depending on each individual case. They can also deliver it to you by post.       

Family Visit Visa renewals, Insurance, and Penalties for Overstaying

Can you extend a saudi single entry family visit visa.

No, it is only valid for 30 days. On or before the 30 days have expired your visitor must return to his/her home country and begin the whole Family Visit Visa application process from scratch. 

Can you extend a Multiple Entry Family Visit Visa?

No! For either the Single of Multiple Family Visit Visas , the visitor can only stay a total of 3 months after which they have to leave the kingdom.

However, multiple visit visa allows visitors to reenter Saudi Arabia using the same visa for up to 3 times, but not exceeding 1 year.

How do you check the status of your Family Visit Visa Insurance?

• Application Reference Number (Family Visit Visa)
• Sponsor’s Iqama Number 
• Captcha Code

The status of the visit visa status will be shown to you.  

Do You Need Health Insurance For A Family Visit Visa?

Health Insurance is required for a Single and Multiple Entry Family Visit Visas. For the second , it can be extended. The cost of the visa insurance depends on age, sex and medical background of the applicant. Currently, the prices are between 30 SR and 100 SR.

Who Provides Health Insurance For A Saudi Family Visit Visa?

There are a limited number of insurance companies authorized by the Ministry of the Interior to sell health insurance for the purposes of a Family Visit Visa .

They are:  

• BUPA Arabia
• Arabian Shield
• AXA Cooperative
• Allied Cooperative
• Saudi United Cooperative

Compare insurance company offers before you buy the Family Visit Visa insurance to get the best offer.

What does a Family Visit Visa health insurance cover?

It is travel insurance that only covers treatment for emergency cases. You can use it in the case of emergencies, traffic accidents, repatriation after death, dental, dialysis, problems of pregnancy and injuries through accidents, etc. However, the costs of childbirth must be met by the family visit visa holder. 

Costs are covered for expenses up to a maximum of 100,00 SR. Policy limits are set in the contracts for cases of hospitalization, room, doctor and nursing services, and life support limited to 600 SR per day. Medication is NOT included in the policy. Conditions are given in each individual the insurance policy.  

Treatments Covered

Treatments not covered , how much does health insurance cost for a saudi family visit visa.

There is a criterion for insurance costs depending on the age, sex and medical background of the visitor applicant. Currently, the prices are between 30 SR and 100 SR.

How do you apply for the Saudi Family Visit Visa health insurance cover?

You apply online for travel insurance for the Family Visit Visa to any one of the Health Insurance providers on the list authorized by the Ministry of the Interior. Click on the following links to compare quotes for the Saudi Family Visit Visa. 

How Do You Register with Your Choice of Insurance Company ?

For complete details of how to apply for Health Insurance for the Family Visit Visa at your choice of insurance companies and for useful application tips click through to the following link.

• Enter Your Personal Details
• Enter Visitor Passport Holder Number
• Enter Family Visit Visa Holder Number 
• Enter the Border Number in Passport
• Pay the Fee

Your Family Visit Visa Insurance will be issued to you! If later you wish to extend the coverage for a Multiple Entry Family Visit Visa you can log in again to the Insurance company website and click through to process the visit visa extension.  

How do you check for Medical Insurance Validity for a Saudi Family Visit Visa?

This is how you do it.

• Choose Inquire About Visitor Insurance
• Then click Service Link
• Enter Visitor Passport Number & Captcha Code

What happens if you overstay on a Family Visit Visa?

Overstaying your  Family Visit Visa is a serious matter. If you fail to extend your  Family Visit Visa or if you remain in Saudi Arabia after your final extension has expired, the ministerial authorities will impose harsh penalties.

• Imprisonment in Detention Centre
• Deportation 
• Pay expenses for repatriation
• Possible Ban on reentering Saudi Arabia 

Overstaying your Family Visit Visa can easily be avoided by allowing time for delayed or canceled return flights out of the kingdom. Plan to leave the kingdom a few days before the expiration date of the Family Visit Visa. If this is not possible and you have to stay longer, then you should renew the Visit Visa as soon as possible. 

Related Questions

Does everyone need to have medical Insurance to visit Saudi Arabia? No, people coming for Hajj & Umrah, people on Diplomatic visas and Diplomatic mission do not need to apply for the mandatory visit visa health insurance. 

Salam Allekum! Hi there! Thanks for reading. Contact the Editor Mohammed Francis directly at [email protected] with any questions or queries.

Mohammed Francis

I am a UK national, a college teacher, father of 3, writer and blogger.

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How to apply family visit visa in Saudi Arabia?

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Expats with any Iqama profession can apply for a family visit visa and bring their family to KSA. In this article, we have explained the updated process to apply for a family visit visa in Saudi Arabia in 2024.

Who is eligible for a family visit visa?

The family visit visa can be applied for only the following people in Saudi Arabia. While relation 1-4 listed below is approved for everyone, relation 5-9 would be approved only if you have a good Iqama profession.

• Wife/Husband.
• Parents-in-Law.
• Grand Parents.
• Brother and his family (wife and children).
• Sister and her family (husband and children).
• Sister-in-Law (sister of the spouse). 
• Brother-in-Law (brother of the spouse). 

Requirements for the visa

You need the following documents to apply for the family visit visa;

• Applicant’s passport.
• Saudi visa of the Iqama holder person applying for the visa.
• 3 months of Iqama validity.
• No need to be physically present in KSA to apply.
• Activate Nafath app.

Now expatriates with any Iqama profession including labor and house drivers can also apply for a family visit visa.

Step 01: Log in to Nafath

In order to fill out the application for a family visit visa;

• Open this website https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/Account/
• Click on the “ Login ” button.
• Enter your Iqama Number .
• Approve the Nafath access .

Step 02: Fill out the application

On the next page, you will be given many options out of which you need to select;

• Family Visit Visa Application for Residents .

On the first page of the Saudi family visit visa application, the system will fetch your details while you need to enter;

• Saudi Visa Number is written on the work visa stamped on your passport when entering Saudi Arabia. In case you were born in KSA, you can leave the field blank.
• Click on the “ Add ” button.

Personal Details

On the next page, you need to enter the personal details of the family visit visa applicant such as;

• Name as per passport in ENGLISH ONLY .
• Fill out the rest of the application in Arabic .
• Enter Birth Date .
• Enter Birth Place .
• Select Gender .
• Occupational Status: Unemployed .
• Enter Mobile Number .
• Select Religion.
• Enter Relationship. Select Others if you want to apply for a family visit visa for someone else, such as a Brother or Sister.

Recently, many family visit visa applications have been rejected with the message “ نأمل تعبئة طلب جديد مع تدوين المهنة بشكل دقيق في خانة ( المهنة)، أطيب تحياتنا .” which means that the profession selected is inaccurate.

However, there is no profession of housewife, child, or retired in the list of professions provided above. We believe that this is a short glitch and soon the Saudi government will start to accept “Unemployed” profession.

Passport Details

Scroll down a little bit on the same page and enter the passport details of the applicant such as;

• Passport Number.
• Passport Type: Normal .
• Passport Issue Date.
• Passport Expiry Date.
• Passport Issue Place: The country of the passport holder.

Type of Visa

Now scroll down a little further and select the type of family visit visa you want to apply for in Saudi Arabia;

• The single-entry visit visa is issued for a period of 30 days only with 8 possible extensions of 30 days each i.e. 270 days.
• The multiple-entry visit visa is issued for a period of 90 days only which cannot be extended anymore.
• How to check Visit Visa validity in KSA?
• Coming from : The Embassy from where you want to stamp the visa.

If you want to apply for a family visit visa for more than one family member, click on the “ Add ” button again to enter the details of the second applicant who wants to come to KSA. Otherwise,

• Check “ Agreement Approval “.
• Click on the “ Save ” button.

Once done, the MOFA system will generate an application number. 

• Save the application number for future use.
• Print the application for further processing.

Step 03: Submit the application

In the next step, you need to submit the application to your employer to sign and stamp it.

• Private Employees: After this, the HR of your company will submit the application to the chamber of commerce of the same city mentioned in the address above.
• Government Employees:  The government employees will submit the application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Domestic Workers:  The employer of the domestic workers will approve the visa through his Absher account. They don’t have to submit it anywhere.

Step 04: Check Visit Visa Application Status

Now keep on checking the family visit visa status from the MOFA website. As soon as the family visit visa is approved, send it to the country from where your family wants to enter KSA. https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/

In some cases, the MOFA requests some additional documents from the Iqama holder before approving the visa. If this is the case, you need to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs along with the required documents.

Step 05: Submit the application to the Saudi Embassy

Your family will contact an agent to submit the application to the Saudi Embassy or Saudi Consulate. In Pakistan, your family will have to book an appointment with Etimad.

At this point, you need to pay the fee for the family visit visa to your agent. Here is an approximate breakup of the fee;

• Visa Fee: SR 300.
• Insurance: SR 100.
• Other Charges: SR 500.
• Total Fee: SR 800 approx.

Make sure the application is submitted to the Saudi Embassy within the family visit visa validity .

Step 06: Check Saudi Visa Status

After submitting your passport to the embassy, you can check the Saudi Visa status with the passport number online.

If the visa is stamped, you need to book a return ticket for the family visit visa holder. Saudi authorities have the right to deport a visit visa holder if he does not have a return ticket.

Family Visit Visa through Istiqdam

In some cases, you might have to apply for a family visit visa through Istiqdam. Here is how you need to proceed;

Required Documents

• Get the appointment from Istiqdam.
• Download the family visit visa application form, fill it in Arabic, and get it attested by the Chamber of Commerce.
• Introduction letter issued by the employer and stamped by the chamber of commerce.
• Copy of marriage certificate if you are applying for in-laws.
• Copy of Iqama and Passport.

Visit the Istiqdam office

• Submit all the documents to the Istiqdam office and get Green and White paper from them.
• After this fill the application online following the guidelines given above. Here is the link https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/Home/Services/citizens

Visit the MOFA

The last step is to visit the MOFA with a print of your online application along with the paper given to you by the Istiqdam. 

Once the documents are submitted, you can check the status of the approval of the application online.

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How to Get Mofa Family Visit Visa Saudi Arabia: 2021 Updates

MOFA FAMILY VISIT VISA REQUIREMENTS, FEES & APPLICATION PROCESS

By Deb Pati last updated on March 27, 2023

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This article has been written with direct inputs from Pakistani citizen Sahil Khan who has been working and living in Saudi Arabia since 2015. His wife and daughter got the Saudi Family Visit Visa and visited him in Saudi Arabia multiple times.

There are many types of Saudi visas . A family Visit Visa or Mofa Family Visit Visa can be issued to an immediate family member of the legal residents or citizens of KSA. This is specifically meant for family members to be able to visit KSA and stay or spend time with their family.

There are two types of Mofa Family Visit Visa.

Validity vs Duration of Saudi Visit Visas

I have been getting a lot of comments on this, so let me clarify. Not just the MOFA family visit visa, lots of visas in the world come with a validity period, and a duration.

You can exit and re-enter KSA as many times as you want till the time of Validity of your Visa stamped on your passport if it is a Multiple Entry Visa.

So for example, let’s say the visa is stamped on Jan. 2020. It has multiple entries and expires on 21-01-2022 .

In this case, the visa holder can enter any day before 21-01-2022. But the duration starts when you enter. So if you enter on 10-02-2020, then that’s when the count starts.

• The multiple entry visa is valid for 1 year after it is stamped.
• The single entry visa is valid for 90 days from the date of stamping.

Family Visit Visa MOFA Approval Validity

Once you get the Family Visit Visa MOFA Approval, you need to get the stamping done within 90 days from the date of approval.

Table of Contents

COVID Update: Stamping MOFA Family Visit Visa in Dubai for Indians

Update: Now the Saudi embassy in Delhi is stamping the visas . But if you already are in Dubai or already purchased the tickets, you can stamp it there.

To get the Family visit visa stamping in Dubai, you first and foremost need to get the visit visa approved.

Then check whether you need a visa for Dubai or not. If you are an Indian, go through the article on Dubai tourist visa from India to learn how to get a visa for Dubai. Since the quarantine requirement is for 14 days, get a 30-day UAE tourist visa, as arriving and departing dates are not counted in UAE.

No need for any residential ID.

Once you are in Dubai, you need to quarantine and do the PCR test as per the government requirements and then go for the Saudi visit visa stamping.

Check on the latest developments on this as this can change without any notice.

You need the following documents:

• Online visa
• Original Passport(Minimum Validity 6 Months) and old passports if any
• Photographs(6×4 And Background Should Be White)
• Sponsor’s passport copy
• Sponsor’s Iqama copy- valid for at least 90 days
• Marriage Certificate
• Birth Certificate

Once done, buy a flight ticket from Dubai to Saudi Arabia and leave.

Who can Get MOFA Family Visit Visa for Saudi Arabia?

A family visit visa is issued to immediate family members only. So if you are a legal Saudi resident or citizen, only the following people are eligible for a family visit visa.

• Father-in-law and mother-in-law
• Husband or wife
• Brothers/Sisters of foreign wives/husbands married to Saudis

This means the following family members can’t get a Mofa family visit visa.

• Nieces/nephews
• Grand parents

If you ask me, grand parents should be considered immediate family members, but I digress. Maybe some day, that will change.

This article is written from the point of view of a legal resident of Saudi Arabia. The process is same if you are a citizen. The only difference will be that you would be filling in everything in Arabic and you won’t need an Iqama.

Are All Professions Eligible for Saudi Family Visa?

One of the deciding factors in the KSA Family Visa is the profession of the Iqama holder in KSA.

And the profession that your Iqama says is the only one that matters, not what you have studied or what you did before coming to KSA or that you do something in your company that doesn’t go with your Iqama.

With help of some fellow expats, I have compiled an article that contains the complete list of professions that can sponsor KSA Family Visa , and the process to change your Iqama profession.

Please go through the article before commenting.

Can You Bring Wife’s Brother/Sister on Saudi Family Visit Visa

There has been a very recent announcement that now you can apply for a family visit visa for your brother, sister, brother-in-law and sister-in-law. So hopefully the option will soon be available online.

But it is not yet finalized. I will update the article when it is fully implemented.

Now, some expats swear that they have been able to apply under the “other” option and mentioned brother/sister there. But I can’t really assure you how true is that. So you can give that a shot or wait for the new rule to be implemented.

How to Apply Mofa Family Visit Visa?

A Saudi Family visit visa application is a process that involves separate processes for the family member living in Saudi Arabia and the applicant who is outside Saudi Arabia.

In order to get the family visit visa, an Iqama holder has to initiate the process in Saudi Arabia. The Iqama holder’s dependents cannot themselves apply for a visit visa application using their own  Iqamas.  

Various websites often open in Arabic. Try to see change the language to English by clicking on the option on the top left corner.

1. Apply For Family Visit Visa at MOFA Online

The resident Iqama holder has to submit an application for the family visit visa on behalf of the visitor. For this, the Iqama should be valid for at least 4 months.

In order to apply for Saudi family visit visa, the very first step would be to start the process on the official visa services platform .

On Visa Services Platform

Choose Individuals, and select your category. Note that if you select citizen, you would need to fill in the whole application in Arabic.

Select Resident and then click on the “Family Visit Visa Application for Residents”.

You will be forwarded to the application page. Click on “I agree”.

Enter Iqama Holder’s  Residency Number  (Iqama Number). You can apply for multiple visitors by adding different visitors in the same application

You need to fill in the personal details and visa details such as

• Visa Type : Single or Multiple Entry
• Border Number  (Handwritten Number on Passport Stamped Pages)
• Sponsor Details: Address, City, Email and Mobile 
• Visitor info: DOB, Passport number, Nationality, Religion
• Relationship with Visitor

Make sure to write your email correctly and your mobile number using 00966 & mobile number.

2. Get Approval from Sponsor/The Chamber of Commerce

Once the Saudi legal resident/Iqama holder has printed out the   MOFA online  visit visa application form, he/she can take it to the sponsor to sign and stamp the document.

The Saudi Chamber of Commerce can also attest the MOFA application form if required for private company workers. Chamber of commerce attestation is done online by sponsor company or kafeel.

3. Send Completed Form/Visa Number to Visitor

Once signed and stamped by the sponsor, usually it takes a week or less for the status to be reflected in the MOFA portal. You can check the status of the MOFA visa application using the application number and your ID number.

If the visa application has been granted, you can send the scanned copy of the completed, signed, and stamped application form to your family member applying for the  Family Visit Visa  outside Saudi Arabia.

4. Register & Pay for Family Visit Visa at the Enjazat Website

Now is the time for your family member to create an account at the Enjazat website .

Once you create it, you will get an email to activate it. Make sure to check the Spam folder.

On the   Enjazat Website  you would need to search for the application using the application number and your passport number.

You can pay using a Visa/Master credit card.

5. Submit Documents to Saudi Embassy/Visa Agency

Depending on where you are, you might be able to get the visa along with your passport by mail or in person. Usually, a family visit visa can take up to 3 days or more depending on each individual case.

Note that Saudi Arabia has a list of approved agencies all over the world to apply for a visa. Don’t get fooled by some neighbourhood agency and lose your hard-earned money. If you can’t find an approved agency, write to the Saudi consulate in your country and ask them about it.

Requirements for Saudi Family Visit Visa from the Applicant

• Copy of sponsor Iqama holder’s passport
• Valid International Passport (Minimum 7 months validity remaining) for the applicant
• Copy of the Iqama or residency permit for the sponsor
• 4 passport-size photos
• Apostilled copy of the National ID card of the applicant 
• Marriage certificate which you might need to apostille

If applying for in-laws

• Apostilled marriage certificate for the sponsor
• Apostilled copy of the birth certificate of son/daughter  
• Family Book If Necessary

6. KSA Visit Visa Stamping

Visa stamping process can be different in different countries. You can get the visa stamped in your home country (which should be your first choice) or in another country.

KSA Visit Visa Stamping in Philippines

In Philippines, you would need to schedule appointment for visa stamping (VFS Tahseel). Make sure to check if they are asking for any extra documents.

Visit Visa Stamping in India

In India, the Saudi consulates of Delhi and Mumbai stamp the Saudi visit visa. Usually, Delhi consulate is said to be a little faster than Mumbai.

Saudi Family Visit Visa Stamping in Pakistan

Etimad is the official partner to process your application and get the visa stamped. Note that they usually take your original documents like marriage certificate along with your passport and give it back once the visa is stamped.

This is a sample Saudi visa for family visit.

How much Does a Saudi Family Visit Visa Cost?

The cost of Single Entry and Multiple Entry KSA Family Visit Visas  are fixed at 300SR.

How to Check Your Family Visit Visa Status Online?

Visit the MOFA SA website: https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/

Scroll down and enter the application number and ID number to inquire the status of your visa application.

In the next page, you will be able to see whether it is approved. If it is under process or rejected, you will see a red line text in Arabic. Once the visa is approved, you will be able to see the following information on a new page.

You will see the visa duration, application details and visa number.

Can You Extend Family Visit Visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, it is possible to extend Family visit visa for KSA.

A single-entry family visa can be extended 5 times, for a total stay in Saudi Arabia of 180 days. A multiple-entry visa can be extended for 90 days at a time. Note that you can get only 180 days at a time. After that, you need to leave the KSA and re-enter.

For Extension, after 90 days you must exit and re-entry KSA from any of the Borders or Home country before 2-3 days of Expiry of the current 90 days.

A lot of people leave for Bahrain or Dubai and return back before their visa expires on their passport.

For this, you need to apply through the Absher portal. But chances are there that the extension through the portal wouldn’t work or you will get error messages.

In that case, you need to visit one of the Jawazat offices in Dammam or Jeddah or the one closest to you, with the required documents such as

• A copy of your passport bio page and Iqama
• A copy of your wife/husband’s passport bio page and visa
• A printout of the Saudi family visa extension application in Absher
• Printout of the error messages in Absher

You would need to carry a copy of the Jawazat appointment. No need to have a same-day appointment. You just need an appointment to enter the building.

Can You Extend Family Visa in Saudi Arabia on Expired Iqama?

As per the General Directorate of Passports(Jawazat), the expiry of Iqama or residence permit does not prevent someone from extending the family visit visa of their relatives.

Extending Multiple Entry Saudi Visit Visa after 270 Days

It is possible to extend the multiple entry KSA visit visa after 270 days, which means after 3 extensions.

Grace Period for Family Visit Visa in KSA

You can get a grace period from the Tawasul or Jawazat. Usually, it is for 14 days or 30 days as per their desire. This is not an Extension.

And Grace Period means you Must have to leave KSA within that period of time. No further Extension.

Do You Need Health Insurance for KSA Family Visit Visa?

Whether it is a single entry or multiple entry Saudi family visit visa, you do need to have insurance. Now, you can’t get this insurance from wherever you want.

The ministry of the Interior authorizes a very limited number of insurance companies to sell health insurance for a  Family Visit Visa .

• BUPA Arabia
• Al Rajhi Insurance
• Arabian Shield
• AXA Cooperative
• Allied Cooperative
• Saudi United Cooperative

The insurance cost varies as per the sex, age and medical background of the visitor applicant. Right now, the prices are between 30 SR and 100 SR.

What Does a Family Insurance Cover?

The family insurance covers covers treatment for emergency cases. You can use it in the case of emergencies, traffic accidents, repatriation after death, dialysis, problems of pregnancy etc.

For cases of hospitalization, room, doctor and nursing services, and life support, the policy limi is set to 600 SR per day.

It doesn’t cover medication and drugs, and childbirth without complications.

How to Apply for Saudi Family Visit Visa Insurance?

Compare the policies of different insurance companies, and when you are ready with one, then enter the visa details and other relevant personal details of the applicant and pay the fees.

If later you want to extend the coverage for a Multiple Entry  Family Visit Visa , you can log in to the same Insurance company portal and extend it.

How to Check the Validity of the Family Visit Visa Policy?

Head over to the  CCHI website , to check the validity of your  Family Visit Visa  policy.

• Choose Inquire About Visitor Insurance
• Then click Service Link
• Enter Visitor Passport Number & Captcha Code

KSA Family Visit Visa Rejection Reasons

A Saudi family visit visa might be rejected for various reasons such as

• The applicant’s profession has no entitlement. Make sure that your job title appears on the MOFA list of professions that are entitled to get visas. If you are not, only your sponsor can change it.
• Writing  Atheists  as your religion when filling in the application.
• Making mistakes with application details.
• Although not official, various professions such as house driver, normal workers etc. that are related to manual labor often get their visas rejected. If you have some certificates, you might be able to change your job title. It costs 1000 riyal to change profession.

MOFA Family Visit Visa F.A.Q.S

1. there is one single word ( name ) difference from passport name to visa issued paper. can i stamp my visa and come to ksa or will there be any issue.

The name on the visa and the passport should be exactly the same. You should apply for the visa once again. No need to cancel anything.

2. There is just one spelling mistake due to which my name on the marriage certificate and passport don’t match? Will it be ok?

No it won’t be ok. All the relevant documents including visa should have same name.

3. My name is spelled wrong in my daughter’s passport? My name is Khanzada and the passport says Khanzda. Will it affect the family visit visa?

Yes it will. Change it.

4. I applied for a family visit visa with a destination as Dubai for which the Visa document was issued. But my family didn’t travel. Do I need to cancel the visa to apply for a new destination?

No need to cancel. Just reapply.

6. Should my spouse have my name on the passport to apply for a visit visa?

Not really. Marriage certificate is good enough.

7. My husband is inviting my parents on a visit visa. What documents do we need to provide for proof of relationship?

Along with the Iqama and passport of the husband and other documents, in this case, copies of wife’s passport, Iqama and NIC as well.

8. There is an “occupation” part in the application which remains red and cannot be filled out. How can I proceed with my application?

The occupation should be filled in Arabic. For example, if your son is a student, you can simply translate ‘student’ to Arabic using Google translate and paste it there. If your wife is a housewife, simply translate, copy and paste.

9. Do I need to get Nikah Nama attested for Visit Visa?

There are contradicting accounts to this. There are people who were able to get the visit visa without any attestation, so it is definitely not a requirement. That being said, it is better to get it attested to eliminate any cause of rejection.

In Pakistan, you can get barcode attestation from MOFA. In Philippines,  you can apostille the marriage contract in DFA manila.

10. Do I need an unmarried certificate for my daughter who is older than 18?

Yes, you do. For example, if you are applying in Pakistan, then Etimad( the official partner for KSA visas in Pakistan) will ask you for a statement which is printed on stamp paper (50 RS).

Before Commenting

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About Deb Pati

Deb Pati is the founder of The Visa Project. He has lived and traveled in many countries. When he is not travelling, he is either working or writing.

Reader Interactions

November 19, 2020 at 4:56 pm

Hello, To apply family visit visa, does the applicant is required to provide his degree or diploma verified copy?

Thanks, Zia

November 22, 2020 at 2:20 pm

Hi Zia, No, there is no need for a degree or diploma verified copy. It is not one of the official requirements.

December 18, 2020 at 6:38 am

Can I apply for my wife visit visit since I’m on vacation and staying in my home country?

September 22, 2021 at 1:27 pm

Hi, my family was in saudi for multiple entry visit visa valid from feb 2021 to feb 2022. They reached saudi in feb 2021. In the month of may I extended their visit visa for 3 months ( till august 2021). But in the month of july we have to leave to India. In august their extended period got over and I have not renewed after that. Now I want to bring them, but unfortunately Iam not able to find their details in Absher. My question is 1. Should I renew their visit visa for coming to Saudi. If so what is the procedure. 2. Should I take insurance, because when I tried its showing ‘VISA IS ACTIVE BUT EXTENSION TO BE DONE 7 DAYS OR 3 DAYS AFTER EXIPRY’ 3. Can my family travel in same visit visa, and should I renew their visit visa and insurance after reaching Saudi.

December 21, 2021 at 4:16 pm

Can I apply for my wife and children visit visas since I’m on vacation and staying in my home country?

November 19, 2021 at 12:55 am

Dear sir, I want to bring my family on visit visa, my Iqama ‘General labour’ now saudi govt. Allow for all Iqama holders to get family vist visa but my company, told me your salary less then 3000sr you are not eligible for family vist visa as per company policy. Please guide me what I do to get stamping and chamber from my company. Thank you!

November 19, 2021 at 3:59 am

https://thevisaproject.com/experience/saudi-arabia/change-professions-for-family-visa-saudi-arabia/

February 13, 2022 at 6:07 am

Hello, do we need to get our nikkahnama attested from mofa in saudia?

July 26, 2022 at 12:47 pm

hello sir, may i ask for the requirements needed to apostille if i want to apply for a visit visa to KSA?

July 28, 2022 at 6:56 am

It would depend on the country you are applying from, but in general getting the documents like marriage certificate, educational qualification apostilled, is always a great idea.

January 9, 2021 at 7:08 am

For saudi Visa stamping in Dubai do we have to do any kind of document attestation????

February 12, 2021 at 1:58 pm

Hello, does the visa request approved by Mofa have an expiration date, once the family visit visa is approved ? Do we need to apply or to submit immediately to saudi embassy for visa’s stamping?

February 26, 2021 at 2:25 pm

You need to get it stamped within 12 months usually.

April 23, 2021 at 3:49 am

Is there a way to change Family Visit Visa to Iqama?

My Brother in law is here on Family Visit Visa. A local company in Riyadh is willing to give Job and Iqama. His age is 26.

His father is also having Iqama and working here.

In current situation it’s difficult to travel to India for the Work Visa stamping and doing the medical etc.

Any alternate option from Dubai or other country?

April 24, 2021 at 8:46 am

Hi Zohaib, While I have sometimes come across people who claim that they have been able to change from family visa to Iqama through agents, as far as I know, it’s not possible. I believe you might end up losing your money if you try that route. But maybe your brother in law would get lucky. And probably the local company can pay for the visa and they have people to take care of it? In that case, he can give it a try.

Dubai and Baharin have emerged as two of the most popular options for stamping.

December 18, 2021 at 9:28 am

I have apply for visit visa for my husband.is it mantory to get attestation on original marriage certificate..how should process

November 25, 2021 at 4:33 pm

Hi Sir Deb.

Is it necessary the marriage certificate to be in apostile? Or not? Bec. I dont have apostile.

July 29, 2021 at 6:31 pm

Can I (expat female) when issued after 90 days my residency visa bring my husband over with the help of my sponsor

Can an expat woman take her husband with her?

July 30, 2021 at 1:43 pm

Yes, it is possible.

August 22, 2021 at 8:35 pm

Hi Sir Deb! Can i use my philippine marriage certificate for applying a mofa family visit visa? I am residing in Pakistan now, me and my pakistani husband has no Pakistani Marriage certificate. We only have Marriage certificate from Philippine, and it is already attested in Dfa Manila. My question is, can i use my apostille marriage certificate for applying the family visa even i am applying here in pakistan,? Or do i really need to get a pakistani marriage certificate? I am hoping you can answer my question sir..

August 25, 2021 at 3:33 pm

Hi Normina, You wouldn’t be needing a Pakistani marriage certificate for sure. That I can assure you of.

You would however need to translate your certificate to Arabic, I believe. Best to take the help of an agent to get this done.

November 24, 2020 at 5:21 am

hi DEB please help me what to do with my daughter visa,his exit reentry expire last feb 24,2020 and we request to mofa to extend that time but unfortunately because of the pandemic the embassy suddenly close so there is no chance to process the visa,when they open last sept we tried again but the embassy said the visa is expired,again we applied to mofa and after waiting for three weeks they said they cannot extend the visa because it is more than a year now.so we dont know what is the next step.do i have to cancell the iqama and reaaply again in stigdam?

November 26, 2020 at 3:19 pm

Hi Arnel, Thanks for stopping by. I understand that your daughter is not in Saudi Arabia right now. If the visa has expired and it is more than a year now, then it won’t be renewed. If you are in Saudi Arabia, You can visit the Jawazat offices in Dammam or Jeddah or the one closest to you with the documents mentioned in “Can You Extend Family Visit Visa for Saudi Arabia?” section of the article. The last option would be to apply for a fresh visa.

December 7, 2020 at 3:55 pm

can i apply for my brother as visit visa?

January 11, 2024 at 8:52 pm

My husband can sponsor wife’s brother daughter?

January 22, 2024 at 3:34 pm

Not really.

November 25, 2020 at 11:38 am

Hi 1st time family visit visa is allow now to enter the kingdom?

November 26, 2020 at 3:13 pm

Hi Ameer, Yes, it doesn’t really matter whether it’s your first family visit visa. If you have a valid Saudi visa you can enter the KSA. But note that Non-Saudi nationals holding Tourist Visas are not allowed to enter the Kingdom for COVID right now. Check with the Saudi embassy of your country to confirm before planning to go.

December 8, 2020 at 2:03 pm

Can i apply visit visa for sister? My sister is un marriage but she will come with my mother

December 8, 2020 at 5:10 pm

Hi Kamal, There has been a recent announcement that now you can apply for a family visit visa for your brother, sister, brother-in-law and sister-in-law. So hopefully the option will soon be available online. Some expats swear that they have been able to apply under “other” option and mentioned brother/sister there. But I can’t really assure how true is that. So you can give that a shot or wait for the new rule to be implemented.

July 26, 2021 at 4:06 pm

Can i get my sister to saudi arabia.

July 26, 2021 at 6:07 pm

Really doubt it. Please refer the article and different comments.

January 5, 2021 at 12:37 pm

Hi sir . can my husband apply for family vist visa for me and my daughter.His Aqama is Amil Manzli .so on this Aqama he is entitled for applying family visa or not

January 7, 2021 at 1:40 pm

Hi Mrs. Arslan, I don’t think you can get the visa on Amil profession. He needs to change the profession.

November 10, 2021 at 4:41 am

Hi , my husband wants to apply for a Family Visit Visa for me. The situation is in his iqama it still say’s SINGLE . He hasn’t changed it to MARRIED yet. Are we still able to get a Family Visit Visa for me ? We have the Marriage Certificate.

November 10, 2021 at 4:41 pm

Hi Michelle, I believe you would be able to. Later your husband can change it from single to married.

November 26, 2020 at 10:57 am

Any news about the family visa issuance from MOFA now a days. I applied 10days before but not get the visa.

November 26, 2020 at 2:58 pm

Hi Mohammad, Saudi Arabia visas are being issued. But because of COVID restrictions, they might take a bit longer. Also depends on which country you applied from.

April 2, 2021 at 1:36 pm

Hi . Deb patil My husband stays in Dammam . I stay in India . How does he apply for permenant visa under COVID 19 circumstances.

November 29, 2020 at 6:58 am

Visit visa for my wife was issued on 27-02-2020, valid until 26-02-2021. Unfortunately she could not travel to the Kingdom as of now due to the flight services is remains suspended until further notice.

Is the valid until means ( 26-02-2021) she can enter to the Kingdome on before this date? or must leave the kingdom on this date? Please respond.

December 22, 2020 at 5:34 am

Yes, she can enter the KSA on or before this date.

February 20, 2021 at 1:00 pm

I have facing Same issue… Due to CORONA 19 Virus Pandemic, there have been no flights to Saudi Arabia. we have not used this visa since the visa Stamped from India. I want to bring my family to SAUDI ARABIA. Please advise me What i should do…..

February 20, 2021 at 6:02 pm

You can go via other countries. I have explained the Dubi route well.

February 21, 2021 at 1:38 pm

Greetings!!

This is syed from riyadh,

Now am holding my wife visit visa but unfortunate destination has selected to mumbai for stamping, now delhi emabassy started of stamping for family visit visa, Can you advise me how am i chang the destination for stamping behalf of mumbai…

February 26, 2021 at 2:17 pm

Hi Syed, You would need to apply for a new visa with the same data and choose Delhi as the stamping destination. Your Mumbai visa will get canceled if the Delhi visa is issued. If Delhi gets rejected, Mumbai will remain as it is. You also might get an error or two on Chrome when doing this. Try on Firefox if it is not working.

November 6, 2021 at 2:05 pm

Hi Deb! My family came here on visit visa last June with Riyadh as port of arrival, since flights always get canceled we got a ticket which will leave in Dammam. Will it be ok for them to exit in Dammam going back to home country or it should be in Riyadh? Thank you so much!

November 6, 2021 at 3:17 pm

Hi James, I don’t think flying from Dammam should be an issue. Don’t worry.

March 24, 2023 at 10:09 am

Hi. My mother is on multiple visit visa which is valid until 05-may-2023. If she leaves and re-enter saudia before 05-may-2023 can she stay for 90 days more or she needs to leave again before 05-may.

March 27, 2023 at 7:31 pm

Usually, people leave and re-enter before 2-3 days of Expiry of the current 90 days to do the extension, but if she does it before that, it could still work depending on the border officials. If she has a valid visa, she should be able to re-enter without any issues.

November 30, 2020 at 8:37 am

Hi Deb apply Mother Visit Visa , she lives in Pakistan apply for 1 year multiple but reject just now and Message Comes on Mofa Website is

نأمل تعبئة طلب جديد. أطيب تحياتنا (translation) : We hope to fill out a new application. Best regards

please Guide and Explain what is the reason or should i Reapply Today

December 21, 2020 at 3:14 pm

There was some mistake in your application. Authorities require new application.

November 30, 2020 at 9:14 am

Hi, it’s our first family visit visa approved last month and we intend to use it this December, 2020 so we can spend Christmas with my hushband working in Saudi.

November 30, 2020 at 10:49 pm

my son is holding saudi family visit visa.he is working in dubai and wants to visit us, now can he do please

November 30, 2020 at 9:30 pm

My mothers family visit visa (2 years) expires in February. I am trying to find out if a new visa can be applied and issues while she is here, as during the pandemic it may not be a good idea for her to travel back to India.

Do you know if this is possible

appreciate reply, thank you Anuradha

December 1, 2020 at 6:23 am

Hi Anuradha. Yes, I believe a new visa can be applied while she is in Saudi Arabia.

November 13, 2021 at 4:56 am

Hey, can I apply family visit visa for my son-in-law?

November 16, 2021 at 4:17 am

Yes Amreen, although you might need an agent’s help.

November 30, 2020 at 10:44 pm

my son is working in dubai and holding family visiting visa expiring on 30-12-2020. he wants visit us now before 10th.dec can he do,

November 30, 2020 at 11:25 pm

Hi. I have two years multiple entry visa. I received it last year on 3rd January, 2019. I stayed in Saudi for 2 weeks but because I had a difficult pregnancy I could not travel back again. Now I was all set to travel with my daughter but the Pandemic happened. Now it’s December. My visa is valid for one month. My husband applied again for our visa because apparently my visa is not appearing in their Saudi govt portal. But here, in Oman, where I reside, the embassy does not want to issue a new visa and also does not want to cancel the previous visa. What am I supposed to do? They say I can travel from here but from Saudi side they have informed me that I won’t be allowed to reenter. This is frustrating. I am this close to going and still stuck. The embassy is willing to stamp the visa on my daughter’s passport but not mine.

December 1, 2021 at 9:04 am

Do you have any answer regarding this matter? I have almost same concern.

Hope to hear some reply from you.

December 2, 2020 at 9:27 am

My iqama profession is normal worker. Is it valid for family visit visa application? thanks a lot.

December 8, 2020 at 5:21 pm

Hi Cloyd, I believe you are talking about having a labor Iqama? Unfortunately, that can become an issue. Many people have had family visit visas rejected for having a labor Iqama. However, if you have some certificates, you might be able to change your job title. It costs 1000 riyal to change profession.

December 9, 2020 at 10:44 am

my iqama profession is welder. Do i need to change iqama profession to apply for family visit vissa.

December 2, 2020 at 6:57 pm

Hi Deb, As of 2nd Dec, 2020. Can you please confirm, If Etimad and MOFA has started working on new family visit visas ?

December 2, 2020 at 8:48 pm

Hello kausar, As i know he would be allowed to enter KSA if previous visa is valid. Second thing if he visits you and leave prior to visa expiry. there wont be an issue. If his medical is still valid. please check on provider website by entering visa number. On the other hand, if he plans to visit you again in few months in Ramadan/Eid 2021 it is advisable to apply for new visa 1 year multiple and come tension free. I don’t think fee is so high that you would think again. This is best option to avoid any possible shock by the authority at airport.

December 3, 2020 at 8:22 am

My family visit visa got rejected twice already, just wondering what could be good reason for visit that I should put?

December 5, 2020 at 10:57 am

I am 16,and mother is 39 do we need a medical certification from Bangladesh to enter in ksa with a family visit visa?

December 13, 2020 at 8:29 am

Thanks for the article. It is indeed very helpful. But are you sure about the single entry visit visa’s duration is 3 months? Because in 2019, they were only 2 months (1 given in default, the other by extension online through Absher).

December 13, 2020 at 9:33 am

Hi Atif, Single Entry Visit visas are valid for 90 days but the duration is 30 days only.

September 15, 2022 at 8:39 pm

Hi Deb! I have one urgent query, I’m processing my Saudi sponsored work visa although facing issue to take along my 2.5 year old baby along with me. Confused as to which type of visa to be applied for him. Kindly guide in this regard.

September 16, 2022 at 6:42 am

Hi Meha, You can apply for the family visa visa for your baby.

September 1, 2023 at 1:54 am

Is there any problem if my iqama expires , but visa requested already approved, and just goint to be stamped in Philippines

September 5, 2023 at 6:26 am

I don’t think so, but make sure to renew it asap.

December 13, 2020 at 11:01 am

Greetings for the day,

could you please help me to know, are they issuing family Visit visa to Indian?

Thank you Irfan

December 17, 2020 at 4:18 am

Hi Irfan, The visa is not getting stamped in India yet. But you can apply for it and mention Dubai as the stamping location. Of course for this, you would need some extra documents like marriage certificate and birth certificate attested from UAE mofa.

December 17, 2020 at 10:42 am

Dear I am an indian (Saudi Resident), Is it really possible that we can apply visa mentioning Dubai as the stamping location. Will this really work and we can get stamped from Dubai. If this works really you shared a good information. please confirm and reply again.

December 18, 2020 at 4:16 am

Yes it is possible. Many Indian expats have taken this route this year.

December 20, 2020 at 12:26 pm

Are you sure? Is it possible to stamp Saudi Visit Visa at Saudi consulate at Dubai? One will be on a visit visa to Dubai, right?

January 7, 2021 at 11:15 pm

Dear My family is in KSA on 1year (multiple entry) visit visa valid till 31Jan2021. Is it possible to apply new 1year visit visa for them again now and choose dubai as stamping location? Can they exit to Dubai and enter Saudi with their new visit visa after completion of quarantine period on 28Jan2021 ?

January 8, 2021 at 5:52 am

Why don’t you try to extend the visa while they are in Saudi Arabia? And yes, that is possible. Many people have taken this route.

December 14, 2020 at 7:49 pm

Hello, Is unmarried certificate required for daughters aged above 18 years old who have already approved family visit visa?

December 17, 2020 at 4:21 am

Hi Aira, Yes, it is needed. You can make a notarized affidavit from the parents mentioning that she is unmarried and you give her permission to travel. I believe there is no need to get this attested from Mofa really.

December 15, 2020 at 11:22 am

i have apply for family visit visa for my wife, am a Indian .. after CoC i got this message from Mofa تعتذر الوزارة عن تحقيق الطلب The ministry apologizes for the requested demand. I don’t no what the reason behind on this. if you have any idea about this. My Company is located in Dammam and am working in Jeddah. my colleague say that bcoz of national address.

Let me know if you have any idea

appreciate for kind reply

December 17, 2020 at 4:47 am

Hi Mohammed, Reapply with the complete home address as per national address as Unwan. And mention the city which is on your iqama. If it is Dammam, mention Dammam. Even if you are living in any other city.

December 20, 2020 at 12:39 pm

Visa’s for indian is not being issued from SAUDI coz of stamping which is stopped for a while in India. When i applied, i got the same message from ministry.

You need to select dubai for the stamping of Visa as Deb said earlier.

January 11, 2021 at 5:59 am

Hi there! I’ve been trying to visit my family desperately for the past 7 months. I’ve been looking for ways to visit them but I exit the country in Jan 2020 thereby losing my iqama. Now i wish to visit my family via family visit visa but haven’t been able to obtain one as stamping in india hasn’t been open yet neither has the consulate been responding to calls regarding the same due to the pandemic. As Deb has mentioned earlier, and now Shuaib having confirmed it, I am intrigued. As far as i have understood we need to apply for family visit visa through MOFA and instead of selecting visa stamping location as india, we need to get it stamped in dubai by the saudi consulate in dubai? Will this work? i have been looking for ways and would like to know more. waiting for your reply. Thanks and regards.

January 11, 2021 at 6:14 am

Hi Mohammed, yes that will work. Many people have used this route. But note that you have to provide the required documents in Dubai to get the visa stamped. I have updated the article with that info.

December 16, 2020 at 3:18 am

I am from India, I want to apply for a family visit visa but I am getting confusing which one is better single or multiple. My plan is for them to stay for 6 months. would you please share and guide to choose with all details…

Please advise and thank you

Regards, Rizwan

December 16, 2020 at 4:39 pm

Hi Rizwan, If your plan is to stay for 6 months, it is better to apply for a multiple entry visa. The process is the same as mentioned in the article. But if you get the single entry visa, you would need to extend it again and again.

December 17, 2020 at 12:06 am

Thanks, Deb…For the valuable information.

Can you please share about pricing details if you know…will help me a lot.

if in the case for 3 months stay what you will advise? single or multiple

ones again thank you so much: -)

November 2, 2021 at 6:47 am

A.o.a …i wanted to ask i got my family visit visit visa just before two days …and my wife’s passport is damaged through a mishap …so etimaad office workers told me that visa would not be stamped on that passport…so if a family visit visa expires then after how many days we can apply for a new visit visa… kindly guide me as soon as possible

November 5, 2021 at 9:03 pm

hello I would like to ask the multiple entry visit visa how many days should you stay in the kingdom and how many times need to renew the visa. is it ok. to stay in kingdom for 1 year without going exit on the period?

November 6, 2021 at 3:30 pm

Hi, It is possible to stay for 1 year without exiting if you can manage to do the last 2 extensions through Absher. If not, you can leave and reenter.

December 16, 2020 at 2:46 pm

Hello. I am a US citizen and my wife is British and our baby has a British. I have a valid Iqama and entry/exit visa. Am I able to get a visit visa for her and my son if I am not currently in Saudi?

My employer is saying I need to be in the Kingdom in order to get the visa for them. I would rather travel together as a family than leave them and have them join me later.

December 17, 2020 at 4:40 am

Hi Justin, I totally get your plight. What makes it difficult to get the visa outside KSA is the step where you need to get a signature from your employer. And in case anything goes wrong with the application, you might need your employer’s help again. Technically, it should be possible for someone who is in Saudi Arabia to do this for you. Maybe an agent. But this would again need your employer’s nod.

December 17, 2020 at 5:46 am

Ah, thank you so much for the fast reply! I really appreciate it. I was going to use an agent in the UK. He said I only needed the letter of invitation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and he could get the visa for me in 3-4 days. He said the LOI would come from my employer via the MOFA.

I’m basically just making sure my employer isn’t trying to make me come back on my own if I don’t really need to. The HR lady is VERY old school and loves doing everything on paper and doesn’t know how to use the internet! Ha.

December 18, 2020 at 4:18 am

Really glad to hear that Justin.

June 23, 2021 at 5:50 pm

Hi Deb, I was wondering if you have a list of approved agencies in the UK? I’ve got the approved application for our sons in the UK but now need to find someone to help us with the next step there. Thanks

December 16, 2020 at 6:04 pm

What does the red text in Arabic translated to “We hope to fill out an application according to the new update” mean?

I’m currently residing in USA, and m dad is in Saudi Arabia. He applied for a visa for me 2 months ago, however there has been no update at all apart from the same old message “We hope to fill out an application according to the new update”

What are we supposed to do here? Extremely frustrating process. Please get back to me as soon as possible as my parents are sick and I need to travel to Saudi ASAP.

December 18, 2020 at 4:24 am

What it usually means is that some details on the application are wrong. Also during the COVID restrictions, this happened to different nationalities. So the workaround is to file for a fresh application and fill in the data as per the Iqama and passport.

You can also take help of an agent. If your father is a US citizen, you can see the list of agents approved by Saudi embassy in USA here .

December 17, 2020 at 6:35 am

Greetings! just want to ask some questions with regards of extending the visit visa, my wife visit visa will expire on February 2021. Therefore it is ok to extend her multiple visit visa without leaving the country? or she must first leave the country before i extend her multiple visit visa? Because right now lots of speculations that i received that some of applicants they can able to extend their wife’s visit visa without leaving the Saudi Arabia. So Please if you can help me sir I need a valid answer with regards on this matter. It’s very confusing right now.

December 18, 2020 at 4:28 am

Hi Chito, It is very much possible to extend the visit visa without leaving Saudi Arabia. Try to do it through Absher. If something doesn’t work, you might need to visit one of the Jawazat offices. But there is no need to leave Saudi Arabia for this.

December 19, 2020 at 7:35 am

Thank you so much Deb for the informative answer. God Bless you sir!

December 17, 2020 at 2:04 pm

If I pay for visa fee at enjazat website, do I need to pay again to Visa agency like VFS tasheel?

December 17, 2020 at 7:28 pm

My husband is working in abu dhabi..I’m applied for visit visa for him .while he went for visa stamping in vfs tasheel they asked for embassy attested marriage certificate..is it mandatory to get embassy attested marriage certificate for visit visa?

December 17, 2020 at 10:14 pm

Hi I’m a U.S. green card holder, I have been received family visit visa from Saudi Arabia, I need to know what’s the documents required of me to send it to embassy. (sponsor/ my father , me/ his son) Thanks..

December 22, 2020 at 5:30 am

Do you mean to say you already received the visit visa? Then there is no need to send anything. If you still need to apply for it, then all the documents will be the same as mentioned in the article.

December 18, 2020 at 9:13 am

Hi Can I apply for my wife family visit visa since I’m on vacation in my home country . So she can travel along with me .

December 22, 2020 at 5:27 am

Although tricky, it is possible to apply for it when you are not in Saudi Arabia. You would need an agent’s help and your employer’s nod for this.

December 19, 2020 at 8:29 am

Hi Deb, Can you please tell, If how much time, It requires for visitor to enter into Kingdom after visa issuance.

December 21, 2020 at 12:28 pm

Hi Deb, My Mother Visit Visa issued on Feb & Stamped on March. 2020. Now my mother is in Dubai on Quarantine for 15 days. But as u know, Visa Stamped on March and its already late to enter, will that be any issue on Airport to enter. Note:- Visa is Multiple & expiry on 21-03-2021 Appreciate your response.

December 22, 2020 at 5:29 am

Hi Rizwan, As the visa is valid until 21-03-2021, your mother won’t have any issues to enter KSA. Don’t worry about it.

December 22, 2020 at 9:34 am

I have applied for visit visa for my daughter through online by selecting destination from Moscow as she is studying in Russia but she is with Indian passport. but when I checked status of application and I found apologies messages from MOFA for the request. how I know the reasons of rejections. ( currently I am staying with my wife but not under family visa and we are under two different sponsor. Also my profession is computer programmer in Iqama but engineering council certification is not yet completed). could you advise how to know the reason of visa rejection and how can apply again. Your support is very appreciable.

December 22, 2020 at 10:21 am

can I apply for a visit visa for my Wife’s brother?

December 26, 2020 at 2:22 pm

Hi Zohaib, Not really.

August 12, 2021 at 12:33 pm

Assalamu Allaykum, I am a Filipina my husband is an Egyptian Doctor can she gave me a Family Visit Visa?

December 25, 2020 at 8:17 am

Hi Deb, I want to go to Saudi Arabia for a while, my parents are working there, and I got my family visit visa request approved from KSA but I cannot get stamp in New Delhi which is the place selected in my application, I really need to get home, can you offer me suggestions as to how I go about this situation ?

December 26, 2020 at 5:36 am

Hi Vatsal, A lot of Indians have taken the route of getting the visa stamped at Dubai. If you can, that is a good option.

December 28, 2020 at 4:57 pm

Is it possible for an Indian to get family visit visa stamp in Dubai ?

If so, is an agency required for this, or I can personally go to the center and get it stamped ?

Can you provide me list of agencies available in Dubai, who are doing this work?

December 25, 2020 at 10:35 am

Assalam o alikum,

Anyone please can explain that in a single entry visit Visa is it possible to renew visa even after 3 months of stay as it is written in the article that can be renewed untill 180 days( 6 months)?

December 31, 2020 at 12:53 pm

Hope all doing well. My application got rejected because of the mismatching of my place of issue and the city that I did the chamber. That time, the place in my iqama was Jeddah and I got stamped from Riayah. After that incident, company renewed my iqama and currently it is showing electronically printed in the place of place of issue. So, how can I understand the place of issue to get the chamber from the exact place..? Or it will acceptable for any chamber? Please help to solve this.

January 3, 2021 at 8:11 am

Hi Gentleman,

I have a question about my mother in law’s Family visit visa to be extended. Because, This is a one-year multi-entry visit visa. Besides, I was renewed thrice (After 3months, 6months, and 9 months) as everyone allowed to do so on Absher. Her visa will be expired by the 24th of But I need to renew again for 3 months as the situation is not much good in Srilanka at the moment. Hence, Can you advise me of any possibilities to do so?

January 6, 2021 at 4:56 pm

Hi yes, you can do it. Create a single PDF with the screenshot of the error message, insurance details, visa details from Absher and passport details of the visa holder. Then go to the services> General services in Absher, and then click on messages and services. There select “General directorate of passport”, and subject as “Extend multiple entry visa”. Select the service “visa issues” In the message explain your problem. In the comment attachment, attach the error from Absher, and in the attachments, attach the PDF from before.

January 3, 2021 at 9:28 am

Hello. My husband had applied for family visa for me in December 2020 (as I left for my home country Belgium as my previous visa was coming to an end). And now they have rejected the application saying the ministry apologizes for the requested demand. The visa application was applied via the HR department of my husband’s company. I got it last year so how come this year they are rejecting ? Please help

January 6, 2021 at 4:25 pm

Hi Henna, what it usually means is that some details on the application are wrong. Also during the COVID restrictions, this happened to different nationalities. So the workaround is to file for a fresh application and fill in the data as per the Iqama and passport. BUt since the HR department of your husband’s company is applying for it, you need to get in touch with them.

January 7, 2021 at 9:34 am

My husband raised the request for family visit visa for me.. and it got rejected.. how can we identify the reason for rejection? I’m an indian.

And also want to know how often can we apply for the family visit visa once rejected?

January 7, 2021 at 1:37 pm

Hi Nancy, The exact reason for the rejection is hard to tell. Please see the section on “rejection”. Once you know, you can apply for a fresh one. Not sure about the number of times.

January 5, 2021 at 10:49 am

I am holding Saudi Iqama with Electronics technician Profession. Is this possible to get the Family visit VISA for my Sister in Law. We are expecting our baby delivery in first week of April 2021 , and to help in various aspects of delivery I would like to arrange the visa only. Please suggest.

January 6, 2021 at 6:22 am

I don’t think so. Please check the “Who can Get MOFA Family Visa Visa for Saudi Arabia?” section for details. I have updated it.

January 6, 2021 at 4:57 pm

Greetings! My family came for the first time in KSA on Visit Visa and their Ninety Days Stay is going to expire on 21-Jan-2021 as per absher. First question is what is precisely meant by Seven Days. Will i be able to apply extension on 14-Jan-2021 or will it be 15-Jan-2021? Secondly, when applied through absher, how much time is taken by authorities to accept/reject that visa? Gratitude in advance.

January 7, 2021 at 6:03 pm

Hi Haris, Thanks for stopping by. The visit visa duration should be less than 7 days when applying for an extension. So you can apply for it on or after 15th Jan 2021. The extension is instantaneous if all your details are in order.

January 9, 2021 at 1:05 pm

Hi Deb, I have VISA & Insurance both for one year Validity is to expire in Feb 2020. There is travel ban for direct travel from india. Today news is 31 march all flight will resume. 1) Can we extend this totally unused VISA/Insurance validity date in India at embassy or KSA at jawajat 2)Do we need to cancel VISA if not extended. if not canceled is there any problem in future. 3) Any possibility of refund of VISA/ insurance if it goes unused due to travel ban 4)All payments done by agent now he is not responding to calls

January 13, 2021 at 7:47 am

The best option for you now is to use the Dubai route. I have added a section on that in the article. You can’t extend an unused visa. You can apply for a fresh one though. I don’t believe you need to cancel the visa now. People have been able to get new visas without canceling the old ones.

Note that the KSA embassy in India is not open now.

I can’t comment on the refunds since you did it through an agent. You need to check with them.

January 10, 2021 at 6:36 pm

Hi Deb, A lot of gratitude. Just one confusion, if you could please clarify? By instantaneous, do you mean its automatic if everything is clear, or its instantaneous but still by someone working efficiently from the office. Gratitude again.

January 11, 2021 at 6:18 am

Hi Haris. Yes, it is automatic if everything is in order.

January 11, 2021 at 8:58 am

Many thanks for active responses. Stay blessed and have a good day.

January 8, 2021 at 1:36 pm

Hi, I am Shakhawat. How i can check the visa ..is it correct or not ? I have a work visa which has validity 90 days. After 90 days can i extend it or not ? And how i can do it . my agency is saying that it’s free visa.

January 11, 2021 at 6:12 am

Hi Shakhawat, Does it look like the visa pic in the article? Please note that this article is about the family visit visa. If you applied for a work visa, then that would be different. And unless I see it, I can’t really say. Feel free to use the CONTACT page to contact me and once I reply, you can send a pic of the visa and I can tell you. Do blur out any personal info.

January 8, 2021 at 4:54 pm

Hi Deb, Can I get my visa stamped in Dubai, I have no connections with Dubai, I will be on visit visa there, so is it possible for me to get stamp for Saudi family visit visa from there ?

Please give me detailed answer asap as it is very crucial for my plans

January 11, 2021 at 12:16 pm

Updated the article for everyone to see. Please check it out.

January 10, 2021 at 10:28 am

Hello everyone. Iam from India

I have a query ?

Actually my family visit visa is valid till 16-3-2021 nd they could not travel to ksa since suspension of flights. So i wanted to ask,

1) Is it possible that they can enter ksa via dubai after 15 days quarintine their ?? ( I asked few agents in india nd they assured me that it is possible these days as many indian visit visa holders are taking this route).

2) As my iqama is expired currently, so does it cause any problem for them while immigration at dubai or ksa airports as iam the sponser of the visit visa ??

3) As the visit visa is un-used till now nd will expire in march, is their any way to extend it or will it be cancelled automatically after completion of validity i.e., 16-3-2021??

Please help me with ur valuable suggentions 🙏

January 10, 2021 at 12:02 pm

Hi Deb My family exit reentry expired before two years. Now I applied for Visit Visa in Islamabad Embassy but they Rejceted two times. Now they are asking for Final Exit paper. Please can u guide us about this problem. Is there any solution.

January 11, 2021 at 11:23 am

Hi Kamran, You can go for the final exit if your family visit visa has not expired. As it has expired already, that is the reason they are rejecting it. Not sure about the solution here. Maybe others can pitch in.

January 11, 2021 at 12:49 am

My family one year multiple visit visa was expired on Dec 20 but from Absher it is renewed for more three months and now valid till March 21. I want to apply a new one year multiple visa for my family so can the system accept to apply before expire of existing valid visa without going exit from KSA. Its very confusing.

Appreciate your valuable suggestion.

Best regards,

January 11, 2021 at 6:16 am

Hi Deepak, Why do you want to apply for a new visa? You can extend the existing one multiple times, right?

January 12, 2021 at 3:15 am

Thank you for your reply.

From the latest news, KSA is going to lift all restriction from 31st March. So if flight service will resume then most probably KSA govt. will not renew further. if there is an option to renew multiple visit visa for more one year without exit KSA then I can apply before expiring of exist one otherwise my family need to exit from KSA.

Please suggest if there is any procedure to renew multiple visit visa without exit from KSA.

Best regards Deepak

January 13, 2021 at 7:10 am

Hi Deepak, You can renew the family visit visa through Absher or in Ishtiqadam without leaving KSA. It is easy. But, I don’t think it is possible to extend the visa for more than a year without leaving KSA.

January 18, 2021 at 7:21 am

Thank you for your valuable feedback.

Best regards, Deepak

January 11, 2021 at 3:44 pm

Hello brother.. thank you for your information. I would like to apply for family visit visa. unfortunately, my iqama profession is not suitable for it. iqama profession is Hospital Cleaner and I’m working in manpower company as an office administrator. so can you suggest me which profession that I can use while changing my profession. also please let me know do I need to submit any certificates during this process.

thanking in advance for your response.

January 13, 2021 at 6:50 am

Hi Deb, I am Gittu. I have a query relating to my wife’s visit visa. She came to KSA on one year multi-entry visa. It was extended 3 times after each 3 months. The visa expires in February. Is there any provision to extend the visa or to apply a new visa without travelling back to India? If so, what’s the procedure?

January 13, 2021 at 5:38 pm

Hi Gittu, Yes you can extend it again. Read my comment here.

https://thevisaproject.com/experience/mofa-family-visit-visa-saudi-arabia/#comment-492

January 13, 2021 at 3:55 pm

My partner of 6+ years is moving to Saudi (Riyadh) at the end of the month. Do we have to be married to apply for the family visiting visa? Even if we can prove our relationship and that we live together.

They are currently (to my knowledge) not going tourist visas so exploring all options.

January 15, 2021 at 10:40 am

Hi Hannah, I don’t think you can but do check with the Saudi embassy in your country. If such a relationship is legal in your country, then the embassy might accept it.

January 14, 2021 at 9:19 pm

I am working in saudi arabia and applied family visting visa for my wife 4 times abd got rejected on all occasion with the following message

” Ministry Apologies for the requested demand. Greetings”

Please let me know the reason for rejection.

January 17, 2021 at 12:58 am

hi, my job title is restaurant worker,can possible to take wife and daughter for visit 3 month in ksa saudi?

January 19, 2021 at 11:02 am

Hi Arjun, Don’t think so. You would need to change your profession in Iqama in this case.

January 17, 2021 at 5:49 am

Good morning

I have applied through an agency to stamp my parents visit visa under my iqama in India. They are asking for Hayak number. Do you know that it is required . My husband is travelling to India and was planning to bring them with him. Both of us are working in MOH hospital. Do you know visit visa holders are allowed to enter KSA as of now or they have to wait until 31st March. Many thanks in advance for your help.

January 19, 2021 at 10:57 am

Hi Shahna, Not sure about the Hayak number but visit visa holders are being allowed inside KSA now, as long as they fulfill the quarantine requiements.

January 17, 2021 at 7:04 am

Hi Can i apply visit visa for my second wife and my 2 month daughter? Please note that, my first wife and my 13year old daughter are under my Iqama and both lives in Riyadh.

January 19, 2021 at 10:55 am

Hi, As far as I know, you can apply for the visit visa only for 1st wife.

January 17, 2021 at 9:19 am

Can visit visit holders travel from UAE to KSA nowadays?

January 19, 2021 at 10:26 am

Hi Shabeel, Yes they can.

January 18, 2021 at 11:58 am

Hello Mr. Deb, I wish to bring my family again in KSA. Please let me know, if Multiple Entry Visit Visa for 2 years is active now? Earlier it was stopped and she came on MEVV for 1 year. So, this time looking for 2 years, if available.

January 27, 2021 at 5:13 pm

Hi RD, I don’t believe they are issuing 2 years multiple entry visas anymore.

January 18, 2021 at 7:42 pm

I want to apply my wife’s visit visa to ksa. Does she need to make new passport with my name on it or can we use marriage certificate?

January 19, 2021 at 10:30 am

Hi Haider, Yes, you can apply. No issues. Just get the marriage certificate attested from the Mofa.

January 19, 2021 at 11:25 am

Good Day Sir, i have 2 years multiple visit visa for my wife ad daughter, those visa stamped on 10th april 2019 and they entered at Saudi on 22 July 2019. Then they left saudhi on 5th march 2020 due to covid situation. Now i want to bring them to saudhi after march 31st. Is it possible?….. Because my doubt is, how can we measure the 2 years visa validity ….from stamping date or first entry in Saudi date. Upto which date my family can stay with me at ksa if they can come now. Please provide your support.

January 25, 2021 at 6:14 pm

The visa validity starts from the day it is stamped. So if the visa is stamped on 10th April 2019, it will be valid until 10th April 2021. So until that time, they can come to Saudi Arabia. After that, you would need to extend their visas.

January 19, 2021 at 4:53 pm

hi Deb can i apply for visit visa in bahrain the same way its possible in dubai for my family? Can you provide me any details of whom can I contact if its in your knowledge.

January 27, 2021 at 4:58 pm

Hi Jaffar, As per the latest updates, entry to Bahrain is restricted to Bahraini citizens, residents, GCC citizens who do not need a visa, passengers eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, passengers with a valid eVisa, diplomats, military personnel, airline crew, or holders of official, service or UN passports.

So if you fall in the above category, then you can plan on this.

January 19, 2021 at 6:42 pm

Hi, I am an Indian living in Saudi Arabia, my mother stays with me on visit visa. Her passport is expiring in Apr2021, which I will get a new one from Indian consulate.

Now my question is: How to update passport number in absher for a person on visit visa. Can I still extend her visit visa, even if the passport is expiring/expired. (is there any validation of passport expiry to extend visit visa) Please advise.

Thanks Tariq

January 27, 2021 at 4:51 pm

Hi Tariq, Once your mom gets the new passport, send a request in Absher to extend the visit visa, explaining the whole thing in a message. In your message, provide the details of your old passport number and new one, visa number and border number. Attach a copy of your new passport. If you get any errors, attach a screenshot of that error as well. They will extend it.

January 20, 2021 at 3:12 am

Very useful. Information you have compiled. 2019 n most of 2020 I stayed on 2 year business visa and my wife stayed on companion visa. I got another one year business visa for stamping in dubai. Did they resume stamping companion visas now? Appreciate if you could check

January 20, 2021 at 11:16 pm

Hi, I wanted to inquire about port of entry. If I put Jeddah as port of entry but enter from Riyadh Airport. Would that be an issue?

January 21, 2021 at 9:27 am

Hi Syed, Port of entry won’t be an issue. You can enter through Riyadh.

January 21, 2021 at 1:37 pm

Hi Dev, I want to inquire about the procedure for that visitor having a single name on his/her passport because last time I applied for my wife but it was rejected with the reason to apply with the complete name (Second or last name) but my wife has only one name on the passport. Can you please brief about the solution to it? Regards

January 22, 2021 at 5:51 pm

Hi Zameer, While I have never come across something like this with respect to the family visit visa, there are people who have done this while applying for other kinds of visas. Mostly it is a technical or system error. While one solution would be to apply for a new passport where she can have your last name, it is far-fetched and in my opinion, not necessary.

You can get in touch with the embassy and see what they are saying.

If nothing works, you can take the help of an agent.

January 23, 2021 at 3:58 am

Hi My parents are not in the Kingdom and their visit visa is valid till March. Can I get the visa extended without their presence here as they are unable to travel now due to some issues but want to come by April. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

January 24, 2021 at 6:34 am

No, it will not work like that. Any visa that expires while you are outside of the country, needs a fresh stamping.

January 21, 2021 at 4:24 pm

Thank you for your information

Please I have a question

People says we should pay visa fee of SAR300 per passport only the embassy in our home country Is this possible To pay visa fee at enjazat website, is it acceptable?

January 22, 2021 at 8:00 pm

Hi, my daughter Inlaw has acquired a Tourist e-visa for KSA from Canada to visit her husband. Under the current mutant situation can she come to Saudi Arabia or are there any travel restrictions pls.

January 27, 2021 at 4:59 pm

I do not think she can come on a tourist visa now.

January 23, 2021 at 12:21 pm

Ok Thanks, and will update you about my experience in it.

January 25, 2021 at 11:55 am

My family residential visa was stamped in feb 2020, but due to covid they couldn’t enter Kingdom, but now as there is option vis Dubai, can my family enter Kingdome on same visa or need to take new stamping if yes/no how, as now unable to get correct information can u please guide, please email me.

January 27, 2021 at 5:00 pm

Depends on whether your visa is valid or not. If it is still valid, then you can enter on the same visa. No need to get it stamped again.

January 25, 2021 at 1:03 pm

Good day! I am planning to bring my mother here (family visit visa) in Riyadh. Is it required that I need to go back to my country so she could travel with me? or she can travel alone going back here in Riyadh?

January 25, 2021 at 6:05 pm

She can travel alone with her visa. You don’t have to go.

January 26, 2021 at 7:28 am

i applied family visit visa two times but refuse 1st time msg came we are apologist to proceed your application. 2nd time we hope to fill out a new application. my profession is quality tester. can you please sort out this issue? Thanks

January 27, 2021 at 5:16 pm

Hi Muhammad, I am not sure if your profession is eligible for a Family visit visa. Quality Controller is one of the eligible professions though. See if you can talk to your employer and change your profession on Iqama and then reapply.

January 26, 2021 at 8:11 am

if i have MOFA Family Visit Visa, Can I find a work and transfer to Working Visa from the employer? please give details if possible and its conditions. thanks

January 26, 2021 at 8:19 am

I trust you are well. The family visit visa that can be extended up to 5 months as you said.

1. Is it monthly renewal right?

2. The cost every month will be 100 SAR also? or 1 time.

January 26, 2021 at 3:25 pm

Hi Mazhoor, Each renewal will cost 100 SAR. A single entry visa can be extended for a month at a time.

January 28, 2021 at 5:47 am

Thank you for fast response, 100 SR for each family member?

January 28, 2021 at 10:56 am

January 27, 2021 at 10:16 am

hi myself & wife both having iqama but my new born kid is 10 months old now, is it possible to bring him with family visit visa to KSA or we need to get residence visa only.

January 27, 2021 at 4:40 pm

Yes, you can.

January 28, 2021 at 5:21 am

Hi Mr. Deb, I have a daughter in Philippines. She was born here in KSA, previously holding iqama. I’m planning to bring her back for a visit.. is it the same process as you mentioned in your article? Thank you..

Hi Sheryl, I think in your daughter’s case, it will be different as she herself had an Iqama before. Check if you can renew the Iqama if it is expired or get any other kind of visa depending on the requirement. If not, you can try for a family visit visa based on your Iqama.

January 28, 2021 at 11:39 am

Hi deb, My sons visit visa just got extended today and will expires on 29-04-2021. according to jawazat officer this will be the last time that it will be extended since the multiple visa is valid for 1 year only. My question is, if we go exit before 29-04-2021 do i need to apply a new visit visa for my son for him to go back here in saudi or after exit i just need to extend the old visa again. Thank you in advance for your response.

January 30, 2021 at 9:28 am

Hi Ven, You would need to get a new visa since the old visa would expire.

January 31, 2021 at 9:21 pm

Thank you deb. By the way, if thats the case can i apply a new one while he has an old visit visa? Or can i convert the visit visa to dependent visa here in saudi so that he doesnt need to exit?

February 3, 2021 at 5:30 am

Hi, You can apply for a new one but you can’t convert it as far as I know. Some people have claimed that they converted visit visa to dependant visa using agents, but I think the chances of that are very slim.

February 3, 2021 at 2:41 pm

Hi deb, What if we exit saudi then reenter again before the visit visa expires? Does it mean that they can extend the visit visa even it is multiple entry visa one year validity only? By the way im talking about multiple entry visit visa with one year validity. Supposedly it will expires on 29-01-2021 without my son exiting for 1 year but they extend it until 29-04-2021. Sorry i am a little bit confused on how to manage this. They said that you can apply for new visa only after the old visit visa expires which is in my sons case will be on 29-04-2021. Please help me to understand. Thank you very much for your patience in answering all our queries. God bless you

January 31, 2021 at 6:07 am

Hello Mr. Deb,

Thank you for the article. I want to know how many days can I wait before I submit the passport for visa stamping as I have already received the visa approval document from MOFA Saudi. Since I asked for single visit visa I don’t want to waste the 90 days in waiting as Saudi Govt. postponed lifting of travel ban. Basically I want to know the validity/duration of this approval.

I also want to inform you that the other option for brother/sister works provided your company/sponsor has the authority to forward it & your sibling is accompaniying your parent (as in my case). You will need his /her birth certificate.

May Allah reward you for your good work & help.

January 31, 2021 at 8:41 am

Hi Zubeda, Thank you for your kind words. As you already have the approval, you can go for stamping. No need to wait.

You make an interesting point about brother/sister. I would try to find more info on this.

January 31, 2021 at 12:07 pm

Hello Mr. Deb. Greetings! Thanks for your updated informations. Visit visa for my family visa was issued last year, valid until 26th Feb-2021. Unfortunately due to COVID 19, suspensions of flights from India to Saudi Arabia my family not able to travel Jeddah. Now i am in Jeddah. It is difficult for my family to travel via Dubai. Please let me know how i can extend their visit visa from here. Please let me know the correct procedure. Waiting for your Reply. Thank You

February 1, 2021 at 8:12 pm

Hi I hope you can help me. My husband is British citizen (so are me and the kids), he works and lives in Saudi, his a consultant engineer, and works for a huge French company. Considering the current pandemic is it possible for him to apply for a family visit Visa? I know all visits to Saudi are suspended and I’m hoping you can clear this confusion for me. Thank you

February 3, 2021 at 5:32 am

Hi Sara, Yes, people are applying for family visit visas and also getting them stamped. So visas are being issued.

February 4, 2021 at 1:41 pm

Dear do you have any any information regarding changing the profession. My current profession is Amil (Labour). My employer tried to change my profession to computer technician or programmer MOL is not allowing to change the profession. I Have valid membership of SCE as well.

February 11, 2021 at 6:28 am

Hi deb, I am a little bit confuse about getting new visit visa. Date of entry of my sons old visa was 04-02-2020 and was extended for 4 times but will expires on 29-04-2021. Jawazat officer said that we need to exit because he stays 1 year now without leaving. My question is can we apply new visa if we leave and come back to saudi before 29-04-20? Thank you for your patience in answering my queries.

February 11, 2021 at 8:34 am

Hi Ven, There are two things here. One is a visa and the other is an extension. From your comments, I understand that your son has an extension which is gonna expire on 29th April 2021. He can exit sometime before the extension expires, apply for a new visa, come back. I am not very sure whether he can get a new visa when his extension is still valid. The point is to get a new visa stamp on his passport, come back and keep on getting extensions.

February 11, 2021 at 12:05 pm

Thank you very much for your informative answer. So its better to leave by april one week before expiration just to be sure that we will not wait for a long time if in case they will not give us new visa because extension is until 29-04-2021. Now, i want to ask if you have an idea if we can go to bahrain just for him to exit and process a new visit visa there. If possible, do you know what are the requirements to bring to process the new visa? Thank u very much.

February 13, 2021 at 12:35 pm

Hi, My name is Ejaz Khan. Dear if MOFA issues you visit visa for your family but you do not stamp it in your home country and it expires. My question is can you fill another application again right away or you will have to wait for 1 year which I have heard? Thank you.

Hi Ejaz, The validity of the unstamped visa is 12 months. So you might still have time to get it stamped. If it has already been 12 months, you can try and fill in a new application.

February 21, 2021 at 6:16 pm

Hi Deb, I apply for my 2 daughters but Saudi Arabia not listed in the destination. Is there any restriction now a days for visitors here in KSA?

February 25, 2021 at 9:55 am

If I wanted 5 months or 150 days visa duration? Is there any facility in MOFA system?

And if within the stay of the relative visa beholder, my iqama residency expires before the visit visa expires, but my iqama residency to be renewed, what should we do?

What could be the agency fee in arranging with the KSA embassy to the visa stamping in the passport in ones country?

February 26, 2021 at 2:13 pm

Hi Ictor, I think you should get a multiple entry visa in that case. If your Iqama expires, you can renew it. That won’t affect the visa. Not sure about the agency fees. The purpose of the article is for people to do it by themselves.

March 1, 2021 at 12:13 pm

Thank you Deb. May the universe repay you.

February 26, 2021 at 8:29 am

Hi My Husband works in saudi arabia and he applied visit visa for me which is actually accepted but for some reason i cannot make this visit. Will this affect to my husband job or Iqama? Will his Iqama or visa Count in or as Fault? and because of fault will he kicked of from saudi arabia and did not get iqama because he will count as a fault please ?

February 26, 2021 at 2:10 pm

Hi Nargis, I really don’t think so.

February 26, 2021 at 3:28 pm

Hello, does the approval for application have a expiration date? How long can I hold out on processing my papers and booking after the approval. Thank you very much

February 26, 2021 at 4:45 pm

Usually 12 months, but better to do it as soon as possible as the entry requirements are changing because of COVID.

March 2, 2021 at 6:29 am

Good day Mr. Deb. My daughter was with me in KSA with my family. When she got married, she left Saudi by exit visa. My family is still with me in Saudi. Now my daughter has a one year old child and is in Qatar with her husband. Is she and her child eligible for a visit visa? As we ae Indian citizens, Is it allowed for both of them to visit Saudi from Qatar. Please let me know. Regards.

March 2, 2021 at 12:53 pm

Thanks for the nice article, Just wanted to ask , my wife and younger son has Iqama and stay in india, but my elder kids aged 8 years and 6 years i have sent on final exit last year, can i call them on visit visa Single entry/ multiple entry along with my wife and younger kid.

Awaiting your reply

Thanks and best regards

March 4, 2021 at 6:27 am

Hi, Yes, you can.

March 2, 2021 at 1:23 pm

My unused family visit visa got expired on feb.now planning to process a new visit visa.can i stamp it from dubai/bahrain? Can i get a family visit visa for 2 year validity?

March 3, 2021 at 9:44 am

2-year visas are not being issued anymore. You can stamp the visa in Dubai/Baharin.

March 4, 2021 at 10:42 am

Hi. Am on family visit visa now in Saudi Arabia . Is it possible to change my visit visa to permanent visa on my husband’s iqama By staying here it self or I have to go back to my country and apply?

March 6, 2021 at 7:30 am

You can’t change it to a permanent visa in Saudi Arabia.

March 5, 2021 at 2:05 pm

Other than you, all the other blogs say that you have to enter saudia within 90 days after stamping of family visit visa (which in my case is a multiple one)

My family’s Stamped visa shows validity till Dec 21. They can’t fly now cause of flights closure from Pakistan. Should I be worried or they can fly anytime before dec’21?

Can we verify from any other source?

March 6, 2021 at 7:19 am

Hi Hassan, I have no idea which blogs say that. Any visa allows you to enter until the day it expires. That’s how it works. You can fly any time before Dec 21.

March 8, 2021 at 11:39 am

My family visit visa was stamped in March 2020. The visa expiry date is 5 March 2021. Until now, they could not come to KSA, due to Covid Travel restrictions. Please advise if they can enter KSA using the same Visa by extending the expiry date. If possible, what is the procedure to extend the date. Please advise.

March 9, 2021 at 11:47 am

If the visa is expired, you would need to apply for a new one and get it stamped again.

March 8, 2021 at 6:53 pm

I got an opportunity to work on business visa in Riyadh for 6 months as a Software Engineer. As per my company, I cannot take my wife unless I get Iqama at later point of time.

But, I would like to take my wife to Riyadh along with me. Can I apply for tourist visa for her and take to Riyadh? Can we stay together in my flat? me being on business visa and she on tourist visa..?

Please let me know if it results in any problem? in any way?

March 9, 2021 at 11:45 am

Hi Teja, Yes, she can definitely apply for a tourist visa to come to KSA. The thing is right now, I don’t think KSA is allowing people on tourist visas. So you might need to check that out.

March 10, 2021 at 5:08 am

I live in Abu Dhabi and i received Family visit visa MOFA approval last month but due to this prevailing situation unable to get appointment at VFS tasheel for stamping due to some technical error .

Is there any expiry date for approval letter or we can stamp anytime ? Do Saudi embassy or agency issue visa in month of Ramdan / Haj ?

Appreciate your response

March 10, 2021 at 8:39 am

Hi Mohammed, You need to stamp the visa within 90 days of receiving the approval. Now there is no official source to corroborate that the visas won’t be stamped in the month of Ramdan/Haj. They might slow down, but not stop it.

March 10, 2021 at 12:45 pm

hi Deb My family visit visa( multiple for valid 1 year) stamped and expiring today 10-03-2021. due to suspended flight Saudi arabia is renewing this visa automatically or need to apply for new one and get stamped again?

March 10, 2021 at 4:40 pm

Hi Abdul, I really doubt that they would renew the visa automatically. Haven’t heard it from anyone. You would probably need to apply for a new one. Feel free to check with the embassy, since these requirements are always changing.

March 14, 2021 at 8:27 am

Can I enter saudi through causeway after stamping family visit visa in Bahrain ?

March 14, 2021 at 4:36 pm

Yes you can.

March 16, 2021 at 8:33 am

Hello sir I have question, on my husband iqama there was a mistake with status. It’s written he is single. We are married before even getting a new job in saudi, but we have authenticated marriage certificate. There will be a problem if apply for family visit visa?

March 16, 2021 at 12:18 pm

There might be, as a valid Iqama is one of the requirements. He should get his Iqama updated with the right status. You still might be able to get the visa as you have the authenticated marriage certificate, but it might cause other issues in future.

March 17, 2021 at 5:17 pm

Good morning.

I am Sinu dominic Indian citizen presently located in Bahrain.I am planning to travel with my family to Saudi Arabia via cause way on 23 rd march(After 14 days quratine in Bahrain) I am a iqama holder and i have valid re-entry visa and my wife and kid having family visit visa and they are coming for first time and it’s their first entry. Kindly advise is there any issues or concerns with their first entry via cause way.

March 18, 2021 at 1:56 pm

Hi Sinu. Not an issue. They can enter via the Cause Way.

March 19, 2021 at 10:16 pm

hi sir can travel to saudi arabia with the passport less than 5 months validity for single visit visa?

March 20, 2021 at 3:00 pm

Hi, The passport needs to be valid for 6 months at least. So I would say no.

March 21, 2021 at 9:14 am

Hi Mr. Deb Pati,

I am applying for family visit visa for my son and have encountered problem filling out the personal data of the visitor. There is “occupation” part which remains red and cannot be filled out. My application wont proceed. Is there any other way to fill out the form? I’m a Filipino resident here in Alkhobar.

March 22, 2021 at 2:59 pm

Hi Gerardo, The occupation should be filled in Arabic. For example, if your son is a student, you can simply translate ‘student’ to arabic using Google translate and paste it there.

March 22, 2021 at 4:29 am

Hi sir! We already have the approved multiple entry (1year) family visit visa but unfortunately middle names for the children are missing,is it possible to have the approved visa canceled so we can apply a new one or maybe modified thru MOFA? Thank you so much.

March 22, 2021 at 2:57 pm

Hi James, From your message, I understand that it has not been stamped yet. No need to cancel just apply again.

March 23, 2021 at 6:18 am

Yes sir, we are actually going for leave next month to process our children’s stamping. We managed to apply for a new one yesterday and have it chambered as well. We just wrote : Edit Visa No. ##### in the purpose. We are still waiting for the approval, Inshallah it will be approved 🙏🏻

March 24, 2021 at 5:16 am

Awesome. All the best.

March 24, 2021 at 3:21 pm

Hi Deb! Thank God the new application got approved but the problem is when we search for the visa document # under visa issued by MOFA the names of my family are not appearing. But searching thru application number their names are appearing. What should I do about this? Thank you.

March 23, 2021 at 11:40 am

Hi Deb! Greetings! My residential family VISA stamping work is under process. Recently I came to know that before boarding a flight, they have to produce vaccination certificate. Is it true? Because flights are going to be functional may be from May 17 and i will get very less time to enter KSA after stamping. So, please clarify about it, so that vaccination can be done in advance if required. I have child of 5.5 years old.

Hi Ikram, I don’t think a vaccination certificate is a requirement. Never heard this. It is not available for everyone yet. Do you have a source for this? Which airlines? You do need to get a negative PCR test 72 hours before the flight takes off.

March 24, 2021 at 9:36 am

I applied for the visa on the MOFA portal. Chamber of commerce authorization done. When I search the application status, it shows the list of people in the visa. But when go to Enjazit site, it says no data available.

On the visa document it says “document” number and there is no “application” number. Application number was shown when I did the application in MOFA portal (I have the number written though)

Any idea why is not showing in Enjazit?

regards, Abdulmajeed

March 27, 2021 at 5:43 am

Hello good day.. I Would like to ask because one letter (special letter “ñ”) is with my wife name in passport and i cannot enter the (special letter “ñ”) on the application form. So instead i wrote “n”. Does it affect? or if you have any solution to write any special letter on the application form. Hoping for your reply.

Best Regards, Allan

March 27, 2021 at 4:30 pm

Hi Allan, Are you getting any errors while entering this character? I don’t think that should be an issue.

March 27, 2021 at 6:16 pm

Thank you for your reply.. 1. I tried to enter alt 164 for letter “ñ” but letter “n” doesn’t appear. 2. I tried to do it on the notepad and copy paste the name but unfortunately all letters are pasted except the special letter “ñ”. 3. I even tried to do it on the google translate and copy paste but still same result on #2 all have been pasted except for ñ So, i just put “n” instead of “ñ”

Answering your question, there are no error, it is just not accepting special characters i guess..

Hoping that all would be ok..

March 28, 2021 at 6:01 am

Yes, it is treating ñ as a special character!! I believe it will be fine.

March 28, 2021 at 7:21 am

Thank you very much for your time and hope you can help more people like me asking questions regards this matter.

Hope you good health and God Bless.

March 29, 2021 at 9:12 am

Hello. I already have family visit visa for my family. Is it required to purchase return tickets upon entry to the Kingdom? I am planning to extend the visa after 90 days so I cannot decide when is their return date. Thank you.

March 31, 2021 at 6:09 am

Hello, i have already got Saudi Family Visit Visa, for endorsement destination i have MUMBAI (IND), but now i am hearing that in Mumbai consulate there is coming issue for doing endorsement taking long time, travel agent suggesting me to change Destination from MUMBAI to Delhi Consulate.

can we change now destination after issued visa or again i have to apply new visa ?

thanks in advance

April 1, 2021 at 7:02 am

Hi Mohammed, You can reapply.

March 31, 2021 at 8:48 pm

Thanks for the article. But, please clarify that after getting approved visa document in mofa ksa, I registered in enjazit. But couldn’t find the application with visa number and passport number. Tried to add new application option; but Mumbai and Delhi is not listed in Saudi Missions and hence couldn’t proceed further. Please advise can we do it by ourselves or is it must to travel agents to do stamping process..

Best regards RAYMOND RAJ

April 1, 2021 at 7:01 am

Hi Raymond, That’s very weird. You need to search with your application number and passport number. Are you sure your application has been granted by the MoFa?

You can use an approved agency for the stamping process, but you can do everything else by yourself.

April 5, 2021 at 7:06 am

Hello Raymond,

Even I am facing the same issue. Were you able to proceed further? Are we missing anything?

April 1, 2021 at 5:15 am

My husband in saudi apply for family visit visa for me (wife ) and our son, I understand that once I have the visa document I will need to book an appointment to an agency in Philippines who deals with visa stamping on passports, but on their website it’s written “ visa permit and invitation should be approved by mofa” what does invitation means ? Like my husband will write a letter address to us (wife and son) inviting us to Saudi? Do u know the process?

,I’m confused pls help us.. worried our visa will be declined because of missing documents..

April 1, 2021 at 6:57 am

Hi June, I believe you are referring to step 3 in the article: Send Completed Form/Visa Number to Visitor. After the Mofa approval, you can create the account on the Enjazat website and make the payment.

April 1, 2021 at 8:45 am

In Philippines you do ur account in enjazat in the vfs office, but Sorry but I’m still confused , so how many documents I need from my husband before I book my appointment to VFS? Thank u Sir Deb.

April 1, 2021 at 12:09 pm

You need a copy of the Iqama, a copy of your husband’s passport, an application form that would be signed and stamped that your husband would have sent you. If you still have doubts, send me an email through the Contact US page on my website with that application and otehr details and I can check it.

February 13, 2022 at 6:56 am

April 2, 2021 at 1:02 pm

What will i do if i will not use the family visit of my son? Is there any panalty? Is there any expiry of unused family visit visa?

Hoping for your kind response

April 2, 2021 at 4:26 pm

There is no penalty.

April 3, 2021 at 5:17 pm

I am trying to fill in the application, but when entering my resident ID it says no results found check the entered data. Please advice

April 3, 2021 at 6:00 pm

Hello Mr. Deb. Nice article. Is it true that visitors are not allowed into the Kingdom during Ramadan? I’m a Nigerian Doctor and I’d like my mum to come over to stay with me as I’m pregnant. I was told that she’d have to arrive within the next few days otherwise she’d have to wait till after 3 months before she can come into the Kingdom.

April 4, 2021 at 7:40 am

Hi Krasota, I haven’t heard anything in this regard. I think she should be able to travel during Ramadan provided that she has her visa and all.

April 6, 2021 at 8:20 am

I came to know, that one of my friends able to gets a visit visa for his second wife in a presence of his First wife and their kids.

What is my understanding is, expats are not allowed to keep two wives on Iqama. Might possibly one wife on Iqama and a second wife on a Visit visa are able to keep.

I would appreciate it if you could kindly advise what is the process to get the second wife here in the presence of the first wife, who is an Iqama holder.

Would I apply for a Family “Wife” Visit visa? and what kind of documentation required. Your advice will be highly appreciated.

July 6, 2021 at 11:48 am

did you get any reply or did you get the visa?

April 6, 2021 at 9:40 am

I really appreciate you for managing this wonderful website.

Need clarification on the visit visa validity. Visit visa (multiple exit/re-entry) which was issued last year in March 2020 got expired since we were unable to travel since there were travel restrictions (due to pandemic) imposed by the Govts., will it be re-issued or extended, any idea? btw, I’m from India currently residing in Riyadh.

Thanks in advance for your valuable time in reading this message.

April 6, 2021 at 3:11 pm

Hi Suresh, How can the visa be extended if it has not been stamped and the visa holder hasn’t entered KSA? A visa can be extended once the visa holder is in Saudi Arabia already. In your case, you would need to apply for it again. I don’t think they are reissuing the visa. Feel free to check with the embassy.

April 6, 2021 at 10:54 pm

Hello, I need to know information about Family Visit visa. Can Family visit visa holder can travel for Saudi Arabia? If some plan to travel from Pakistan to Bahrain (2 weeks quarantine) then travel from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia.

Please advise.

April 7, 2021 at 4:37 am

Yes, you can do that.

April 9, 2021 at 2:06 pm

I think this post proved that your are my best friend

April 13, 2021 at 4:43 pm

My sister got her visa stamp in her passport. But with my confusion that before single entry is (90days)..but now it is 30days only???

Is it possible to apply another request for multiple so she can get 90days duration.. but she already has visa stamp of single entry.

April 19, 2021 at 5:14 pm

Hi Kristine, A single entry is valid for 90 days. It gives you 30 days to stay and you can extend that. A single entry family visa can be extended 5 times, for a total stay in Saudi Arabia for 180 days. Recommend you to read the sections on Visa Validity and Extend Family Visit Visa.

April 14, 2021 at 12:11 pm

I want to Know that my family had 2 years visit visa and they went back to Pakistan in November and due to pandemic they are stuck, the visit visa’s 2 years will complete in 17 July 2021. I want to get a new visit visa for 1 year visa, will I be able to get and stamped from Saudi embassy and could my family come to Saudi Arabia on new visa if the old visa date is still left

April 19, 2021 at 5:19 pm

They can still come with the old visa. But if the passport contains a valid visa, I am not sure if they can get new stamping.

April 14, 2021 at 8:05 pm

Hi, Thanks for the info.

I have a question, my family is at KSA with 1 year multi family visa, I extended 1 time 90 days, so they are now almost 180 days inside KSA, I will send them back my country, my question is can they come back lats say 1 month later with same visa, visa is valid until 2 Oct 2021. Can they come back with same visa? Or a new visa is needed?

April 19, 2021 at 5:16 pm

Hi Refik, Yes they can.No new visa needed.

April 17, 2021 at 8:50 am

Hi! My name is Inusah currently living in Saudi Arabia, I married a lady I met during my vocation in my country Ghana, am planning to apply for a visit Visa for her, but the problem is that she was deported 2 years ago as runaway, can I still apply for a family visit Visa for her?

April 19, 2021 at 5:22 pm

Hi Inusah, I doubt that you can take the regular route here. You might need help from an agent or a lawyer. There is usually cooling off period after deportation that can run up to 5-10 years. So you need take that into account as well.

April 19, 2021 at 9:36 pm

Hi, My husband works in Saudi Arabia and sent me a visit visa with the destination marked as Karachi because I was supposed to travel from Karachi. However, I needed to come to Canada for some person matters (I’m a Canadian citizen) and now want to travel to Saudia from here.

Can I use this same visa and get it stamped in Canada or will he need to take out another visa?

April 20, 2021 at 4:19 pm

Hi Sara, Yeah you can change your destination to Canada and get it stamped there.

April 20, 2021 at 12:38 am

I read your article for family visit visa application procedures in KSA its very useful and i applied the family visit request and it’s under process meanwhile i need to add more members along in it if there is any possibility to add more members please let me know

Note : I applied for my wife and children 1year multiple entry is under process

Need to add my parents future more for Single entry

I need your kind reply in this regards

April 20, 2021 at 7:33 pm

Dear Deb, Excellent article with as much information as possible. Many thanks for this. May Allah reward you for this work. 1. My parents are in India. I would like to bring my elderly parents to Saudi arabia in view of the covid situation there right now. Are you aware whether stamping is happening in Mumbai right now? If not I will try the Dubai route. This is the last option since I am reluctant to approach the Saudi embassy in Dubai. And also i have to arrange visa and stay for them in relatives home in Dubai for some time. Also there are no flights currently between UAE and KSA. 2. Is the cost is same for Single entry and multiple entry. You mentioned as SR 300 for both. Just reconfirming. Thanks again

April 24, 2021 at 8:52 am

Hi Khaleel, Thank you for your kind words. Mumbai consulate started stamping in March and I believe they are still doing it. Very hard to guess whether they will stop it and if so, when. And I heard things were slow in Mumbai. So if you can, Dubai is an option.

Yes the cost is the same.

April 26, 2021 at 7:44 am

Are currently family visas are being issued. Can not able to fill MOFA form. Is there any private help center fill out form

May 3, 2021 at 6:42 pm

Hi, I applied family visit visa in KSA for my wife and 1 baby (family in India) but rejected twice without given perfect reasons – it’s just mentioned as “Application was rejected, thanks”.

I doubted that my baby full name as AYAAN ABDUL HAMEED, so can’t fill full name in first name & then I filled it in “surname” .

Could you please anyone advise if know actual reasons ?

Waiting for your helpful advise to apply again

May 4, 2021 at 4:49 am

I would like to ask about a family visa. My company granted me a multiple entry visa for 1 year for my wife and daughter and it’s already approved by the mofa but my wife’s passport’s validity date will expire 11 months from now. The visa center suggested changing my request of Multiple entries to a single entry (90 days) for my wife to get a visa stamping and I requested a new one. but the message that I get every time I checked my request is this “We hope to follow up on the outcome of your previous request. Greetings” I’m concerned it may be in conflict with the previous request?

Please know that my daughter has the visa already because her passport is valid for 5 yrs.

what can you advise?

May 5, 2021 at 6:14 pm

Hi Reid, Yes, it is possible that there is a conflict. Why not renew your wife’s passport and get a new multi-entry visa? Seems to me that would be a better solution.

May 4, 2021 at 8:58 am

As you mentioned in the article If I have stamped family visit one year multi entry visa on 1st Jan 2021, I can travel within next 365 days right?

Can you please confirm this..?

May 5, 2021 at 5:41 pm

Yes Anvar. You can.

May 5, 2021 at 10:16 am

Hi, When applying for a visa for my husband, is our original marriage certificate enough or does that need to be Apostilled. I’ve also read that the marriage certificate after it’s been Apostilled then needs to be verified by the Saudi embassy and that we have to book an appointment online at the embassy to do this ? Is this correct ?

May 5, 2021 at 5:37 pm

Hi Maria, Yes, apostilling is needed in a lot of countries. You can get it attested from the Mofa. It depends on which country you are from. I will update the article with this info.

May 8, 2021 at 7:57 pm

First of all, thank you for this informative post. Helps a lot.

My question: I have a Saudi family VV in hand with the stamping station in the VV as Manama, Bahrain. Do you know how I can get the Saudi VV stamped in Bahrain. I do understand it’s from VFS in Bahrain but I am unsure how I can complete the process. Any help with docs required, turnaround time, and other details will be a lot more helpful.

May 9, 2021 at 9:12 am

Hi Asim, Choose visa stamping destination as Manama.

You need the following docs: 1. Confirmed Tickets from Bahrain to KSA 2. Confirmed hotel booking at Bahrain 3. Original iqama or must have a copy. 4. Install Be aware application on your phone.

Not sure if something else has changed very recently.

And you can book the appointment: https://www.vfstasheel.com/landing.html#/schedule/slotavailable

May 9, 2021 at 10:22 am

Thanks a lot.

Do you know of someone who completed this process recently?

May 9, 2021 at 4:21 pm

I don’t know anyone who has done it personally recently. If you are already in Bahrain, things will be easier. If you need to go to Bahrain, then you need to think about the Bahrain visa and quarantine and all that.

May 10, 2021 at 8:24 am

Hi Deb, My vacation is on 20th MAY to India. My Marriage is on 22nd May so i want to Bring my wife on Family Visit Visa (or) Business Visit Visa (or) Any Possible Visa to saudi arabia with me. but my Vaccation is only for 10 Days + 14 days Qurantine (Total (24 Days)). Visa services is Closed in saudi Arabia. Visa Stamping is also Closed in india. Can you Please Suggest me what to do?

May 12, 2021 at 5:48 am

Visa stamping can still be done in Dubai or Bahrain, but you would probably need a visit visa for those countries as well. Not sure if stamping is going on in Mumbai right now or it has stopped.

The truth is, with the current situation I can’t really tell you what to do Mustafa. By the time, you take my suggestion and implement it, things can change.

March 15, 2022 at 9:36 pm

Hi, My sister and brother in law lives in dammam, my Brother in law sponsored my mother’s and my multiple entry visit visa in march 2021 which got issued but due to COVID restrictions we cudnt travel. Now again he is trying to apply for my(his siter in law) visa which got rejected. Can u plz tell me why it got rejected although it was issued easily last year.

May 10, 2021 at 12:49 pm

Good morning, sir. My husband and I are both currently working here in Riyadh. But my Iqama will expire on Aug 13 and my contract will end on Aug 30. Is it possible for my husband to file for my visit visa while I’m still here and Riyadh? And if ever I come back with my husband’s visit visa, can I look for a job here? Thanks in advance.

May 12, 2021 at 5:29 am

Hi Kathryn, Yes it will be. You can go to Bahrain for stamping and come back. You can certainly look for jobs any time.

May 11, 2021 at 8:52 am

My daughter has a single name on passport. But while applying for passport its asking either father name, second name or family name. If not entered any its showing error. So i entered fathers name. So will it be ok or there will be any issue while stamping it in india.

May 14, 2021 at 8:44 pm

Hi, Thanks for taking the time to answer all these queries,may Allah reward you. My question my wife has two names only in passport (first name & last name) but on the form it was asking father’s name and grandfather’s name. I had to fill this as it wasnt accepted. So i filled with her father and grandfather name i want to know if visa will be issued with all these names and if this will be an issue while stamping.

May 15, 2021 at 5:29 pm

Hi Rafiq, The visa would contain your wife’s name only. Most people have a first name & a last name. Not an issue. Check the pic of the visa stamp in the article.

May 16, 2021 at 7:17 am

Hello DEB. Hope you are doing good. Need your kind advice and guidance.

I live here in Saudi Arabia with my wife and children. Now I would like to know what is the detailed process of bringing my wife’s sons from her previous marriage to Saudi Arabia while they are in India? Can I apply for them as Family Visa separately or do I have to bring them on Visit Visa? What tthings do I have to do? Noting that the Indian court ruled out that the custody is with the mother.

May 24, 2021 at 7:09 pm

Dear Deb, You are doing good job dear. I had applied visit visa for my sister and got stamped on passport through Embassy i Pakistan. Visa stamped on 25 February 2021 and validity was 24 May 2021. Here I need your guidance if she can travel upon normal airtravel suspension will be lifted or I will apply again for new visit visa?

May 25, 2021 at 11:52 am

Hi Noor, Since the visa is not valid anymore, a new visit visa would be needed.

May 25, 2021 at 4:13 am

Hai I am an Indian citizen residing in Qatar, my parents are residing in Saudi Arabia they have applied for family visit visa for me and my son…I have received the visa document from Saudi Arabia where the destination is mentioned is Qatar as I’m residing here …But I am not able to find the Saudi Arabia embassy in Qatar…can you please help me with this…what can be done…

May 25, 2021 at 11:51 am

Hi George, The Saudi embassy in Qatar has closed permanently. I think you need to get a new document with a new destination where there is an embassy.

May 26, 2021 at 3:40 pm

Hi Deb, Thanks for your help. You metioned in step 3 that Once signed and stamped by the sponsor, usually it takes a week or less for the status to be reflected in the MOFA portal. My question is: after i sign and stamp from kafeel, should i activate the application from the camber of commerce using the kafeel’s account or just wait for the approval from MOFA or take the application to MOFA for approval? Thanks

June 3, 2021 at 12:47 am

Hi, can an Indian female with 1 yr multiple entry family visa( visit) enter Saudi Arabia via Causeway from Bahrain? Husband is based in KSA. Or is this visa restricted for entry via airport ?

June 6, 2021 at 2:34 pm

Hi Ameetha, You can enter via the causeway from Baharin. Not an issue. Many expats have done it.

June 12, 2021 at 3:26 pm

Hi Deb. I have multiple family visit visa which was valid until 04/03/2021. My flight was on 19 April 2020. Due to flight suspension I couldn’t travel to KSA. Is my visa still valid? Can I, or my husband who is in KSA, extend the validity of visa? Please clear my doubt🙏.

June 13, 2021 at 6:15 am

Hi Kishver, No, it’s not valid anymore. You would need to apply again.

June 13, 2021 at 4:41 pm

Hi good day! I just want to ask if my sister will go out of saudi arabia since her visit visa is about to expire what are the travel requirements needed in the airport is there exit visa or other requirement maybe?

Same with my son having iqama Except from final exit visa is there any travel requirements needed

Thank you if you will respond

June 13, 2021 at 7:31 pm

Hi, Thanks for a nicely written article. In Dubai, VFS office is very crowded. Can I pay on Enjazit and just go to Embassy to get the visa stamped on the passport? I mean can I skip VFS Tasheel?

June 14, 2021 at 2:24 pm

Can i apply a visit visa with my son and her wife and her daugther . Before my son is included in my iqama as my dependent and he get exits but he was born here in saudi arabia so MY QUESTION IS CAN I APPLY A VISIT VISA WITH Y SON AND HER WIFE AND ONE DAUGTHER

June 15, 2021 at 4:30 pm

Hello Deb Pati Thanks for the informative article. I have applied for a visa for my parents on MOFA. I got the message – “Notification required for the visit of the issuance of the document” and a link at the bottom which takes me to enjazit website. As per your article I did not get any application number on my visa. I entered visa number(in application number tab) and passport number but it shows nothing. I’ve tried multiple times but I’m clueless what to do now. Another option is to add new application but on doing so I’ve to fill the complete information of my parents again. Is that something I’ve to do? Or should I directly send the visa to the agent to get it stamped. Your help will be appreciated. Thanks!

June 19, 2021 at 3:19 pm

Your responses are highly valuable. I have a doubt on one year multiple entry visa. As per protocol, i need to exit my family after 180 days. I am planning to take my family to bahrain. Is it possible to stamp visa at bahrain passport control and exit without entering bahrain? or it is compulsory to visit bahrain and stay over there. If i need to stay in bahrain, how long we should stay?

please reply

June 23, 2021 at 8:58 am

Hi Vinoth, I believe it’s possible to stamp the visa at Baharin passport control and exit without entering Bahari. Some expats have reported it. But depending on the immigration officer and other factors, it may not happen. I would say that plan to stay a day just in case.

June 21, 2021 at 9:27 pm

Good day Please advise! I would like to visit my boyfriend in Saudi Arabia he is Saudi. Whats the chances of me getting a visit visa approved or whats the best way for me going forward to get a visa to go to him. Thanks In Advance.

June 23, 2021 at 8:56 am

You can get a normal tourist visa.

July 6, 2021 at 9:22 am

Many thanks for taking the time to write such a detailed post!

I’ll be working in Saudi and living with my family (all taken care of by my employer). However, I’d like my 78 year old mother to live with us in Saudi. My employer won’t offer this, but if I can get her out with a Family visa can this be extended indefinitely? Do you just need you exit and leave the KSA every 180 days and apply for a family visa for my mother?

Kind Regards,

July 8, 2021 at 2:43 pm

Hi Alex, Thanks for stopping by. You can certainly extend the family visa multiple times. It’s possible to extend 3 times through Absher without leaving the country. So the first year, she wouldn’t need to leave. After that, yes, she would need to exit and reapply. Bahrain is a very popular option for this.

July 12, 2021 at 4:35 pm

About Brothers/Sisters of foreign wives/husbands married to Saudis, where did you get this information that they can be sponsored? Is there an official source?

July 14, 2021 at 5:35 pm

I got the info from expats living in Saudi Arabia. Finding any kind of official source when it comes to Saudi visas is extremely unlikely.

August 21, 2021 at 5:28 pm

Just an update: my bro-in-law (Saudi citizen) tried to apply for a visa for me. First time got rejected but MoFA said to re-apply with my sister’s iqama included. And it was approved!

July 22, 2021 at 12:03 am

My daughter in multiple entry visa, I’m planning to exit her in Abu Dhabi after 3 extensions. What else do we need aside from application from Absher .

July 24, 2021 at 11:01 am

If my iqama gets transferred from one employer to another, will this affect my family visit visa previously approved and still valid?

August 1, 2021 at 6:14 pm

I don’t think so.

July 28, 2021 at 5:02 pm

I have mutiple entry visit visa which was stamped in March 2021, and I could not go because of the flight suspension from India and 90 days from the date of stamping has passed, So is this visa now valid to travel to Ksa, or need to restamp again?

July 29, 2021 at 12:22 pm

You would need to get the stamp again.

July 31, 2021 at 9:01 am

But the validity on th stamp shows date of next year March, isn’t it supposed to be allowed to travel until then?

August 1, 2021 at 6:50 am

Im trying to fill up the form for family visit visa but under the space ” destination” there is no list for saudi, what should i do?

thanks for reply.

August 2, 2021 at 4:54 pm

Hello im Jovie from KSA i want to ask if i can process a family visit visa here in saudi 1 month before i go vacation because i plan to take my husband here its possible ??? To do process his visa so we will return together here in KSA ???

August 2, 2021 at 6:46 pm

Hi Jovie, I think it’s possible.

August 3, 2021 at 12:22 pm

Assalamu alaikum.

I have applied for family visit visa for my wife and daughter. My application was approved by MOFA. After the approval, I noticed that gender of my daughter is male in the application. Should I proceed with the stamping of visa or re apply. Please advise.

August 3, 2021 at 4:34 pm

You need to reapply.

August 6, 2021 at 9:47 pm

Sir Am having a multientry visit visa and its stamped from mumbai consulate. Actually now am planning to visit saudi via maladives..Now my husband’s iqama is expired and since company is planning for a kafeel change it ll take time to renew iqama.so does that will be a problem. Is its mandatory to have iqama validity of husband while visiting time??

August 12, 2021 at 10:06 am

Hi Aswathi, I think you can visit as you already have the visa stamped. Iqama being invalid is not an issue.

August 13, 2021 at 6:40 pm

Hi Deb, thanks for a detailed overview. I’ve gotten the visa application approved but on going to the enjazit site, i haven’t been able to find my application byusing the original application number and also the visa number/ passport number.Can you hellp clarify please?

August 18, 2021 at 5:16 am

You have to create an account on enjaz website, create new application, upload photo and enter details, then save, select insurance, and then finally you have to pay them one by one. The problem with payment is it doesn’t accept payment for individual persons for some reason. That’s where I am stuck. So you will most likely need to go to an authorized travel for paying your fees.

August 18, 2021 at 5:25 am

It isn’t possible for individual to pay on enjazit website for family visit visa (or any payment). I tried using Visa and MasterCard credit cards from US and also ones issued in Saudi Arabia. The only thing I can do is go to an authorized travel agent from Saudi embassy in Los Angeles to get my enjaz fee payed and my visa processed. Please update this information as it took me quite a while to figure this out. The transaction just gets cancelled saying something along the lines of “Error in data. Please check the data entered and try again”.

August 18, 2021 at 3:33 pm

Hi, Thank you for bringing this to our notice. Seems like something is broken when happens quite often I believe. But yes, the article will be updated with this info.

August 22, 2021 at 3:33 pm

My iqama is currently transferred and it is still not renewed by the new employer due to some issues in the system. My wife is travelling to saudi on a family visit visa and will she be allowed to enter KSA if my iqama is expired???

Kindly provide me your suggestions??

August 27, 2021 at 6:55 am

In behalf of all the people you have helped because of this blog, Thank You so much.

Now it’s my turn 🙂 What would be the process for renewal of multiple entry FVV that is already extended 3 times or is already expiring. Is it possible not to exit on my own country and choose Bahrain as point of exit (because it is the nearest)?

What would be the process, documents needed, fees (if you know) and whatever information that you are aware of regarding this process.

Thank you again and I apologize for my english.

August 30, 2021 at 4:07 pm

Hi Chiz, Thank you for your kind words. Here is what you need: https://thevisaproject.com/experience/mofa-family-visit-visa-saudi-arabia/#comment-475

September 3, 2021 at 4:47 am

Thank you so much for your reply. I think the comment that you posted above is different from what I was thinking or in a different situation.

What question is, what is the process to RENEW (not extend) a multiple entry FVV that is already extended to the maximum number (3). Can I renew it while in Saudi then go to Bharain as point of exit, then come back again to Saudi with a fresh NEW/RENEWED multiple entry visa that can be extended again 3 times.

I am so sorry if I am confusing you, I hope you still can understand my question.

My sincere thanks and appreciation for your time and effort.

September 13, 2021 at 2:11 am

I was hoping you can answer my questions. Anyways, thank you still.

September 13, 2021 at 6:02 am

Hi Chiz, I have replied to your query in your other comment.

Hi Chiz, Yes it is totally possible. Here is the process.

https://thevisaproject.com/experience/mofa-family-visit-visa-saudi-arabia/#comment-475

August 28, 2021 at 2:36 pm

Hi. Will apply for family visit visa for a minor kid. However, only the aunt can accompany the kid. What type of visa must be applied for the aunt?

August 29, 2021 at 6:55 am

I just want to know the validity of single entry family visit visa after issuance of MOFA i.e. before stamping at the Saudi Embassy. Likewise, I want to know as well the validity of the visa after stamping by the Saudi Embassy. Kindly reply and will be much appreciated if you can indicate some references to justify the answer. Thank you very much…

September 5, 2021 at 6:02 am

Hello Mr.Deb, First of all a big thanks for your tremendous effort on maintaining this platform for helping a lot by replying to many queries.

Me also want to check with you whether its possible to obtain a new visit visa for my daughter who is currently with me here on multiple visit visa which will expire on November 13,2021. She came to KSA on 2019 November. Due to this pandemic situations we got it renewed until November 13,2021. Since we have a plan to travel to India by November 10, we like to get a new visit visa before we travel, so that we all can come back after a month or so with my daughter.

Thanks in advance

September 11, 2021 at 5:17 am

Hi Sudheer, Thank you for your kind words.

I would recommend you to try Absher first. Log into your account on the website on Chrome, not the mobile version. Navigate to Tawasul> New request> Sector visit visa> Select PPP as service name and write in comments that you want to extend the visit visa. If you get an error, attach the documents with the error screenshot and passport n visa and submit.

If this approach doesn’t work, try from Baharin. Request you to confirm which one works.

September 5, 2021 at 9:44 am

Hello I want to know if I bring my wife on a Family Visit Visa after 180 days how many times can I re apply for a visit visa? I will be here for 2 years and want to have my wife here with me. I tried to apply for the family status visa but it says I am not eligible. I am Executive Brand Chef for a company here but my iqama said chief cook what can I change it to? Also I have many years experience with lots of technical training certificates but no university degree is it even possible to get a family dependent visa?

September 10, 2021 at 12:01 pm

Hi Angelo, Please check out the article: https://thevisaproject.com/experience/saudi-arabia/change-professions-for-family-visa-saudi-arabia/ You would need to change the Iqama profession. I have outlined the process there.

September 10, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Thank you very much, I benefited from your responses Deb Pati 🙂

September 19, 2021 at 10:36 am

Dear Deb. I need to know complete entry process in saudi thru causeway. I got multiple family visit visa duly stamped on the passports Am living in Bahrain and want to travel with my family thru causeway and need to know complete process which needs to be followed like PCR tests, Quarantine, etc etc

Thanks Muhammad

September 26, 2021 at 11:29 am

I’m srilankan lady.my husband is working in jeddaha and his first wife also staying in jeddaha I also have the vist visa now when the first wife is staying in jeddaha can i (2nd wife)fly there I need to know that the emigration would approve me or not?

September 26, 2021 at 1:41 pm

Hi Senani, If you have the visa already, I don’t think there should be any issues. Please update us once you are there so that it will be helpful to people in future.

September 30, 2021 at 7:58 am

Can I sponsor my brother and his family from Qatar, he hold Pakistani Passport and also having Australian landed immigration, Can he and his family visit me by road and how can apply their visit visa ..thanks

September 30, 2021 at 9:20 am

Dear Deb Pati,

My wife has saudi visit visa which is valid upto June.2022. Now i am planning to bring her KSA by October.2021 and will leave from saudi after 4-months. Suppose if i want to bring her to KSA second time just one month before expiry of existing visa,

Is she can stay continuously another 6-months in KSA or need to leave out of KSA before expiry existing visa.

please advise me.

October 5, 2021 at 4:53 pm

Hi Rils, She can stay but you need to get an extension.

October 3, 2021 at 9:15 am

Dear Mr. Deb Please let me know if an Indian Family Visit visa holder can come directly to Saudi if he/she is fully vaccinated?

October 3, 2021 at 11:53 am

Hi deb So i am in sa and wife in riyhad she got her iqama number just awaiting her card. So i have my police clearance which is attested the 2 kids birth certificate attested as well as marriage certificate attested . Please advise what documents are required for my wife to get from the school she is working for and what does she need to send me to apply for multiple entry ps will be applying at vfs tasheel thanks

October 6, 2021 at 2:43 pm

I just want to know the validity of Multiple entry family visit visa after issuance from MOFA i.e. before stamping at the Saudi Embassy.

is it 90 days for single entry and 180 for multiple?

October 7, 2021 at 10:14 am

regarding saudi family visa (multiple), how long is the invitation valid for (from MOFA) before we should submit the documents and passport?

October 8, 2021 at 8:42 pm

How important is entering PORT OF ENTRY in visa application form for family visit visa? Will it be an issue If I entered the different city (Dammam) then my address city (Jeddah) given in the VISA DOCUMNENT. What is the priority must be given when selecting this option for PORT OF ENTRY?

1. Airport near by the City as per the Address given in Visa Document OR 2. Airport planning to arrive

October 11, 2021 at 2:27 pm

Hi Sabri, I don’t think it would be an issue. Usually, it would be the airport close to the address you have provided but there is no hard and fast rule.

October 10, 2021 at 1:06 pm

please advice me, the present time what is procedure to extend 7 th month mulple visit visa for my kids. i heared end of 6 month can travel to bahrain and come back to saudi and possible to stay another 6 months. Is it correct? how is the procedure, by road can possible. how possible on arrival visa bahrain. my wife also working here as a nurse, both are iqama holders, 3 kids came under 1 year visit visa.

October 11, 2021 at 2:26 pm

Hi, Yes, it is totally possible. You can enter via the causeway from Bahrain. Plan to stay for a day at least.

October 11, 2021 at 5:27 am

I HAVE APPLIED FOR FAMILY VISA AND I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT MY APPLICATION GOT APPROVED BY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND AS YOU STATED IN YOUR BLOG THE SAMPLE PICTURE OF ACCEPTED APPLICATION , I AM GETTING THE SAME DETAILS MY APPLICATION CHANGED FROM ORDER NO TO DOCUMENT NO HOW DO I KNOW IT IS APPROVED FROM MOI AND NEED TO PAY FOR ENJAZAT .

October 18, 2021 at 8:16 am

Hi, applied for family visit visa for my brother by selecting ‘other’ in the relation ship and I got it approved. He was traveling from UAE and due to the lockdown was not able to come. During this time, his family joined him there and now, I would like them all to visit. When I applied for the visa again, I got the message, “The Ministry hopes to submit a new electronically certified application after verifying the validity of the relationship of the wanted persons.” Does anyone have any idea how the relationship validity can be verified?

October 19, 2021 at 9:19 am

I applied for a personal visit visa, its been 10 days now, when I checked it, still in green. I didn’t stamp it to COC, what should I do? Do I need to stamp it ? Thank you in advance

October 23, 2021 at 6:09 pm

Hi Vanessa, If it is not an electronic visa, you would need to stamp it.

October 19, 2021 at 11:03 am

I am valid iqama holder and I am on leave in India. Can I apply on MOFA whilst be in India? Will chamber of Commerce be attested whilst I am not in Saudi?

October 31, 2021 at 7:48 pm

Good day. My husband left saudi arabia on final exit after the end of his contract. I am still under contract with MOH here and I tried to apply for Family Visit Visa for my husband.However when our ministry office try to get it attested online through their link, it says to enter the correct number though the number is generated by MOFA. Our HR signed and stamp the application with number issued by MOFA and advices me to send through chamber of commerce which i did,But the reply came from MoFA in red that that must be send through the electronic system of our regional MOH office. I made another application but same problem occurring..it says to enter correct data/number. I sent all the documents directly to MOFA Riyadh by bareed al mumtaz, but still no reply to my application.What could be the possible issue? I cannot do further action since there is no comment to my application.

November 6, 2021 at 6:41 pm

sir, i had stamped(30.06.1441) Saudi visit visa for my family (wife and 3 kids), they could not come to Saudi Arabia because visa was stamped during the corona situation , but alhamdulillah as per the Govt. of Saudi’s order visas are extended until end of this nov2021, but unfortunately one kid visa cant extent, so this reason I cant bring my family without one kid.

how i can extend rest kid not renewed visit visa, that’s why we are so sad, could i get any one help to extend my kid visit visa.

November 8, 2021 at 8:43 pm

Hi Deb, I have two questions 1. Is family visit visa being stamped in India? 2. Is it possible to travel direct to KSA on Family Visit Visa provided we have both vaccinations done in KSA.(My visa is expiring and I need to go back)

November 9, 2021 at 4:16 pm

Hi Vivek, 1. Yes, it is. 2. Yes, possible although you might need an RT-PCR test and all.

November 10, 2021 at 5:48 pm

1. what would be the details to be filled in Occupation for my son (7 yrs old) & daughter (6 yrs old)?

2. on the last part of application is says : destination – is this the country where my family came from?

November 12, 2021 at 1:57 am

Dear Sir, I am Samshad Khan (Indian) Working in KSA .

I want to bring my wife n daughters on Saudi family visit visa of 1 year. The confusion is about the extension process. Do they need to exit every 90 days or after 180 days once only to extend for next 180 days. (About the extension online after every 90 days, i already read on your columns).

Also pls help about COVID situation. Do they need to quarantine somewhere outside before enter KSA. (Expected to bring them in Jan 2022).

Thanks alot for all what already you guided us.

December 9, 2021 at 2:14 pm

I need to ask I ve two kids from my 1st husband now I get marry to a man who lives in sudia…now I want to go there along my kids…so is it possible to get visit visa…I’ll highly obliged fro ur kind answer

December 10, 2021 at 1:02 pm

My fiancé (who is the daughter of a Saudi National) and I are getting married on January 7th, and have gotten a marriage license to fill out on the day of.

But we want to travel to Saudi Arabia on Jan 17th, which would be prior to the court house being able to issue a marriage certificate.

The Iqama has gotten approved from the Saudi side (as me being classified as her husband), but will I have trouble stamping the visa with just a marriage license and not a certificate?

December 13, 2021 at 9:26 am

Hi sir, mu husband applied for a visit visa for my mother, approved last November 2021, but we didn’t use it yet, there’s a problem in required document in mother in law. Can I just reapply for visa, I will be the sponsor this time, since she is my mother. I just don’t know if it is possible since we applied for the same person. we appreciate your response. Thank you.

December 13, 2021 at 6:21 pm

Yes, you can reapply and sponsor her. Not an issue.

December 14, 2021 at 7:44 am

thank you so much! really appreciate it.

December 14, 2021 at 2:12 pm

Hi good day, we are planning to apply for a visit visa for my daughter as my husband is the sponsor, it seems like the company will not process it. What is your advise? Thank you.

December 14, 2021 at 11:10 pm

Find an agent.

December 20, 2021 at 7:12 pm

The family of one of my relative left to pakistan after being here in KSA on visit visa.

My question is, can they apply again for a visit visa to KSA (?) If yes, is there any minimum time limit which they need to spend in Pakistan before reapplying or can they straight go with an application?

December 21, 2021 at 2:54 am

Yes, they can apply again for sure. I don’t think there is any time limit. Just that they must not have exhausted the time they can spend on a visit visa in a year.

January 5, 2022 at 9:08 am

I AM A MARKETING SPECIALIST AND APPLIED FOR FAMILY VISIT VISA DEC 5TH AND CHAMBERED DONE ON 22ND DECEMBER.

VISA STILL UNDER APPROVAL.

WHY ITS GETTING LATE.

PLEASE REPLY.

ON REQUEST ITS SHOWING CHAMBER DATE :22/12/2021.

January 9, 2022 at 5:36 am

Parent visit visa for KSA can be stamped from Etimad Pakistan if my Iqama is expired?

January 10, 2022 at 1:19 am

Hi Nauman, Yes, it can be.

January 10, 2022 at 9:45 pm

Hi Deb, My wife got the 1 year visit visa stamped on Feb 28, 2021 which is valid till Feb 27, 2022. She did not travel due to flights suspension from Pakistan. Now the flights have resumed, she is planning to travel on Feb 15, 2022 whereas visa validity is just after 12 days i.e. Feb 27, 2022. 1 – The question is, after landing in KSA, for how long she may stay here? 2 – Is it possible the visa validity be extended owing to the suspension of flight from Pakistan almost throughout 2021?

January 11, 2022 at 2:51 am

Hi Amir, She would get 90 days as usual. The visa is valid for 1 year and as she is traveling during the validity period, she wouldn’t have any issues.

After arriving in the KSA, she can get the extensions.

January 11, 2022 at 4:12 pm

Means it’s confirmed that after landing on Feb 15, 2022, she may stay 90 days even if goes beyond visa expiry date Feb 27, 2022?

January 12, 2022 at 12:54 am

Yes. Ideally, the 90 days would be calculated from the date of her entry. But do confirm with the embassy once before visiting.

January 21, 2022 at 9:06 pm

If your passport got stamped with KSA 1 year multiple entry family visit visa, and after 6 months expiry of your passport is reached; can a renewed passport be used for traveling while the visa is on old passport? Is this possible or any first hand experience?

January 24, 2022 at 3:33 pm

Hi Amir, You need to have the old and the new passport with you, and explain the same when you are at the immigration. They will update the new passport number.

January 25, 2022 at 7:29 pm

I want to know what is the next step after getting approval chamber of commerce for family visit visa for indian, please let me know what are the complete process after this step

February 2, 2022 at 7:38 am

2 Years ago my father left KSA on Exit Re Entry visa but didn’t come back. Now i want to apply for his family visit visa. Someone told me it is not possible as there is a 3 years ban for not returning on a reentry visa. Can you please confirm if this 3 years ban also extends to family visit visa if so what is the solution for that?

February 6, 2022 at 3:20 pm

Is there anyway to convert a family visit visa to a residency family visa in country (KSA)

February 13, 2022 at 1:56 pm

I tried to apply my wife and son for a family visit visa here in Saudi Arabia but according from our HR, Saudi Arabia is still not accepting visit from the Philippines due to covid restrictions. Is this true?

February 20, 2022 at 1:09 pm

I had received family resident visa from MOFA in Jan 2019 but due to covid19 restrictions it was not stamped in Mumbai, India. I had paid 6000 SR as fees and was informed that the visa will be valid for 2 years. I had been trying to contact Mumbai and Jeddah to know the actual status of visa but in vain. Now due to some issues my family cannot visit and I want to cancel and get refund but not able to do the same as no one knows how to do that, kindly help me out.

February 22, 2022 at 5:17 pm

Hello! My husband is an Iqama holder in Saudi & our son and I recently came to join. We started the process of getting resident visas for us as well & received 90 day visas to come and complete the process here. Though now his company will not agree to sponsor our Iqamas.

We now want to work on switching to a family visit visa. Can this be done while inside Saudi or do we need to return to our home country?

February 25, 2022 at 3:12 am

Hi Lauren, I have heard cases where people were able to switch with help from agents. So you could check that. If not, you would need to come back to your home country and apply there.

February 27, 2022 at 11:22 am

Can I apply family visit visa being outside the kingdom and inside my home country? Will there be any issue for application submission and MoFA Online attestation. Please inform me if you are sure about it.

March 2, 2022 at 4:42 pm

Hi Kama, Yes, you can apply for it outside the KSA.

March 9, 2022 at 6:14 pm

I have received a family multiple entry visit visa for Saudi. The sponsor is my brother residing in dammam. I would like to know if I can enter Saudi through any of the airports or only through dammam airport? The port of entry is not mentioned on the visa.

March 10, 2022 at 2:53 am

Hi Sapark, Yes, you can enter through any airport.

March 13, 2022 at 1:39 pm

Sir, I would like to bring my daughter through MOFA family visit visa multiple entry. But my Iqama validity is 3 months and 10 days only. Is it possible to get a multiple entry visit visa.

March 13, 2022 at 7:51 pm

Yes it is possible.

March 15, 2022 at 12:32 pm

I am Pakistan National, and I already bring here my wife & daughter on Istiqdam Visa and they are under my sponsorship. My question is that can my wife apply for family visit visa for his brother/sister with family?, If she cannot can I apply for my brother or sister in law with family?

Kindly clarify.

March 17, 2022 at 4:39 am

Morning Deb, I am a Resident with Iqama and Im applying for a Family Visit Visa for my son who is living & working in Canada. The Visa request is already approved and attested by Chamber of Commerce (done by my Employeer). Already created the account on Enjazat but the forward process is not clear for me. Could you please elaborate about those next steps related to fill-up the Application, payment, etc. Thanks

March 17, 2022 at 6:59 am

hi sir! i would like to bring my son here for family visit visa multiple entry.i’m a nurse but my husband is here with me.he’s profession is not eligible to sponsor our son.is it possible that i can apply for visit visa for my son under my sponsorship?

thank you and best regards!

March 18, 2022 at 1:21 pm

Hi Bel, Yes, you can do it.

March 18, 2022 at 2:58 pm

Hi Deb, thank you for this very informative and helpful article. I still have few questions that I couldn’t get an answer to anywhere, I would be really thankful if you can enlighten me on them:

1-If I issue a family visit visa for my wife and choose Dubai for stamping, would it be possible to stamp it in Dubai through VFS Tasheel even if she is not a UAE resident? She will be in Dubai on a visit visa.

2-Can I do the MOFA family visit application online if I am not inside KSA? (I have a residency, but if I am out of the country, can I fill it and apply for my wife while I am abroad? My employer signs the requests online usually, so I don’t need to submit it anywhere, I am just not sure I can fill it online when abroad). And in case the answer is yes, so if the visa gets issued and stamped, I can directly come with my wife to KSA or I have to be there before she enters?

3-In case I already have a family visit visa number issued on MOFA for my wife but not stamped yet, and I need to change the country where I want to stamp, since I cannot edit the application, should I reapply for a new one? Some people say you reapply for a new one, other say the new one will be rejected if you already have an active one and need instead you re apply but in the “address field” you write “Visa Number: XXXX” and in that case they will edit the info.

4-Last question, if you issue a family visa for your wife and stamp it from a given country. Does she have to leave only from the stamping country? or she can leave from a different destination?

I know it’s too much question, but a million thanks in advance

March 23, 2022 at 9:26 am

Iam a resident with iqama in saudi And i want to apply visa for my wife , she was living iran , she is Iranian and im a indian. Could you please let me know how i can apply for her and when and where i can get visa approval. Thanks

March 28, 2022 at 6:00 am

Hi Shaik, Is your wife living in Iran now or in KSA or in India? Does she have legal residency in India? If yes, you can do it in India. If she doesn’t then the question is whether you have legal residency in Iran. If you do, then Iran is also an option. You also have to factor in whether your marriage is registered in the country where you are applying, which I assume you would have already done.

March 23, 2022 at 12:39 pm

My husband applied for my mother brother n sister..but visa was issued to my mother but not brother n sister

March 24, 2022 at 7:15 am

Yes, they are not issuing it for brother-in-law and sister-in-law.

April 18, 2022 at 5:51 pm

Hey will my husband be able to apply visa for my sister who is minor?(age:16) bczz it got rejected once,is there any way out?plzz let me know

April 20, 2022 at 4:32 am

It is not possible as of now.

May 5, 2022 at 2:23 am

On passport the 1 year multiple visa expiry is Feb 28, 2022(visa sticker). The visa holder entered ksa on Feb 8, 2022 and got a stay of 90 days untill May 9, 2022. Is it possible to get an extension?

What if I take the visa holder to Bahrain on May 5, 2022 and come back before may 9, 2022(visa expiry in absher); would the visa holder get another 90 days or entry will not be permitted as on passport visa expiry was Feb 28, 2022?

Please suggest at the earliest.

Secondly I heard due to covid visit visa validit were are extended, is there any link where I may check the actual expiry date of the visa which is mentioned on passport visa sticker?

May 9, 2022 at 9:09 am

Hi Amir, Yes, you can surely go to Bahrain and come back. If the passport expired in February, you should have a new passport by now. They will allow you back in with the old and the new passport.

May 12, 2022 at 6:04 pm

1) I am a resident in Saudi since Nov 2019. My Iqama is renewed every year. It will expire in July 2022. Are they very strict with the 4 months Iqama validity policy ?

2) Do you know about the policy with regards to Covid 19 vaccination ? I want to get my parent to visit me. They have received 3 doses of Covaxin. Will they be allowed to enter freely or they would have to undergo institutional quarantine ?

Many thanks in advance, Mona

May 17, 2022 at 12:50 pm

Hi Mona, Iqama expiry is not a big issue. You can renew it when it expires.

Covaxin is recognized. Your parents can register their vaccination before visiting.

May 17, 2022 at 4:25 pm

Hi Deb, I am able to apply for a family visit visa against an Iqama that will expire in 2 months ? And the vaccine they have is Covishield. Is that a recognised vaccine in Saudi ?

Thanks in advance Mona

May 19, 2022 at 5:17 am

Hi Mona, Yes, you can apply for the family visit visa with the Iqama expiring in 2 months. Covishield is recognized in Saudi.

May 14, 2022 at 7:16 pm

I have a daughter in Philippines. She was born here in KSA, previously holding iqama. I’m planning to bring her back for a visit.. is it the same process as you mentioned in your article? Thank you..

May 24, 2022 at 6:42 am

I am an india and residing in Saudi since May 2015, My Family is on Multi visit visa here in KSA and now their Visa is expired in their Passport. I obtained new KSA Multi Visit Visa from MOFA with stamping destination as Manama.

My Question is do we require Marriage Certificate for My Wife and Birth Certificate for my Children to be attested, as in india they never asked me for any attestation of Certificates. They already Visit KSA 3 Times on Visit Visa. My Name is already mentioned in their passport and my Spouse name also Mentioned in my Passport.

Your valuable advise will be highly appreciated

Thanks & regards,

May 30, 2022 at 7:31 am

Hi Mohammed, Sorry about the late reply. No, you won’t need to attest those documents.

August 11, 2022 at 7:48 pm

Maine family visit visa nikala hai per chamber off commerce kahan se karenge kuchh samajh mein nahin a Raha bhai jaan help karo Mera Kapil Ko main paper diya to vah chamber of commerce nahi kar pa raha hai kya rasta hai aap bata sakte ho?? bhai

October 17, 2022 at 6:47 am

Hi Dear Deb, my family visit visa is valid until 14 Dec 2022 as mentioned on the stamped visa page on passport. however, the expiry date on ABSHER now is on 27th Oct 2022. i am planning to renew by travelling to Bahrain and returning! that should extend my visa up to 27th Jan 2022. please confirm if my assumption here is correct? or is it mandatory that the visa validity on passport must also have 3 months until expiry.

October 19, 2022 at 1:44 pm

Hi Altaf, Your understanding is correct.

October 20, 2022 at 8:18 am

Thank you for your response. highly appreciate your message here its very helpful. So, just to reconfirm. I can travel to Bahrain and reenter Saudi with the same visa? the validity on the stamped visa is not required to be valid for next 3 months as long as i enter before the validity date.

October 23, 2022 at 5:52 am

Hi Althaf, Make sure to apply in Absher online first and then do it. You can do it before the visa expires.

October 23, 2022 at 10:26 am

I am glad to inform you that my family visa was successfully renewed. I travelled to Bahrain as planned and turned back and the visa was renewed accordingly. Many thanks as your information was inspirational.

Also, just read on Saudi Gazzette that the old renew process is now been opened and we can renew through ABSHER.

Thanks Again.

October 24, 2022 at 5:56 am

Really glad to hear that Althaf.

October 21, 2022 at 4:13 am

Hey deb, my visa got rejected saying ‘’WE HOPE TO FILL A NEW APPLICATION AND GET IT CERTIFIED FROM THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT YOUR RESIDENCE ‘’ i found that maybe the mistake is my location .its a family visit visa and my husband has applied for me .The location in visa application cannot be changed . It says riyadh but my husbands iqamah issued place is jubail and also got chambered from jubail . Now we want to change the location but it cannot be changed theres no way can u plz help

October 23, 2022 at 5:53 am

Hi Aysha, Unfortunately, in this case, I believe you need to apply again with the correct location.

November 13, 2022 at 12:19 pm

I think similar issue as mine was raised before but there was no reply to it. My Son name is MUHAMMAD ABDULLAH SAJID, where i am trying to enter MUHAMMAD ABDULLAH into first name but visa portal not accepting it all rather only taking MUHAMMAD ABDULL.

While passport has complete MUHAMMAD ABDULLAH as given name and SAJID as sir name. will it have any impact?

November 15, 2022 at 6:48 am

Try ABDULLAH as the second name.

March 4, 2023 at 6:44 am

Hi, I need some assistance regarding visa stamping if anyone can help me .

I have applied visit visa for my 3 family members in 1 application , due to some reason only 1 member stamped visa last month, Remaining 2 members can stamp it now the same visa or it is required to apply for another visit visa ?

March 8, 2023 at 7:25 pm

Yes, they can also go for stamping.No need for another visit visa.

April 13, 2023 at 11:01 am

Hi Deb, The 1-year multiple visa in my wife’s passport stamped visa on June 6,2022 and expires on June 6, 2023. However, she entered KSA on September 9,2022 and was able to obtain a 1-year duration by doing extension in every 3 months , which would have allowed her to remain in the country until September 2023, even though her passport’s visa expiration date was June 6, 2023. Her next expiration date in Absher is June 16. If I take her to the border before that day and bring her back, would she be granted an additional 90 days?

April 23, 2023 at 12:36 pm

Hi Shaffi, I believe you should.

May 2, 2023 at 9:26 am

Family visit visa validity as per visa stamping on the passport is 9th May 2023. Person was entered in Saudi Arabia on 25th Feb 2023. Absheer account shows visa validity till 26th May 2023 (90 days from the entry date).

Can the person stay in Saudi Arabia till 26th May 2023 as per Absheer visa validity date?

May 14, 2023 at 11:14 am

Yes they can.

June 15, 2023 at 7:26 pm

My wife has Saudi family visit visa which is valid till November 2023 on the paper which is stamped on her passport, the visa was issued under my old iqama where I went on the final exit,

now I came on a new work visa and Iqama, in this case, can she travel with the old family visit visa itself?

when I enquired at the airport, they said she can travel, but some people are saying she cannot travel, I am confused, if anybody knows please reply.

June 25, 2023 at 9:46 pm

Yes she should be able to travel without any issues. Ask her to carry the copies of your old and new Iqama when she travels.

September 6, 2023 at 2:43 pm

dear sir my name is imadali from india -for my baby visit visa , my baby name is as in passport sherin fathima imadali but my chamfer of commerce visa copy ,i mentioned name sherin fathima imadali hasan abdullah (i added grand father name). if it will be rejected at the time of stamping process?

September 12, 2023 at 3:53 pm

Hi, It is possible that they ask you for some kind of explanation. In case they reject, you can do it again.

October 29, 2023 at 3:01 pm

Good Day My wife has a family visit multiple entry visa her date of entry into KSA was on 30 July 2023 and she has to do an exit and come back after her 90 days is up tomorrow at the latest, Does she need documents to return other than the valid passport, My iqama valid and her medical insurance being valid for the next 90 days of stay?

As I understand with multiple entry one year family visa each stay is up to 90 days then she has to leave and come back into the country but I am not sure if there are any other documents or needs other than the above.

February 20, 2024 at 6:46 pm

I have a multi visit one year family visa , my father is my sponsor, My visa is valid till November 2024 . My fathers company now renews Iqama every three months . Can I travel to Saudi with my Visa if there is only 60 days of Iqama expiry date of my sponsor. As I heard there should be atleast 90 days of Iqama is required .

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• Saudi Arabia Visa
• Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

What is the Saudi Tourist Visa?

How to apply for saudi arabia tourist visa, eligibility for saudi tourist visa, documents required for saudi arabia tourist visa, photo specification for saudi arabia tourist visa, processing time for saudi arabia tourist visa, saudi arabia tourist visa fees, after submission, how to check visa status, when you have this visa, saudi arabia tourist visa for indians - definitive guide.

Tourism in Saudi Arabia until early 2019 has been majorly religious based. However, with the introduction of the Saudi Arabia tourist visa , this is set to change. With its amazing historical sites, red sea diving, museums, and much more, this country is waiting to be explored. Although the Saudi tourist visa is available as an e-visa and visa on arrival for 49 countries, the Saudi Arabia tourist visa for Indians is in the offline form.

The tourist permit is an endorsement that lets people enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to engage in tourism activities. The visa is issued as a multiple-entry time and will be valid for 1 year with a maximum stay duration of 90 days. The Saudi Arabia tourist visa from India has to be made through an embassy or consulate. However, in the following years, the Saudi tourist visa from India may even be issued as an e-visa or visa on arrival.

The application for the tourist permit is done in a unique way. You will not be able to apply for it directly at the embassy or consulate. Although, currently 49 nationalities can simply use an online portal and apply for an e-visa. Before starting an application for the Saudi tourist visa for Indian citizens, you must ensure that you are eligible to travel on the tourist permit.  You can then apply as per the following - 

• Visit one of the Saudi embassy authorized agency. 
• Fill in the application form for the tourist permit. 
• Submit your documents to the agency.
• The agency will then forward your application to the Saudi embassy/consulate in India.

Note:- You cannot directly approach the embassy for your application.  

To be able to apply for the tourist permit, you must be eligible for it. In order to do so, you must meet the following conditions - 

• You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry in Saudi.
• You must possess sufficient funds to cover your expenses in the country.
• You must be at least 18 years of age. If you are below it, you must be accompanied by a legal guardian. 
• Your sole purpose of the visit must be tourism.

As per the Saudi Arabia tourist visa requirements from India , you must need the following documents for your applications - 

• A valid passport
• 2 photos as per the specifications
• Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia
• Round trip flight tickets
• If employed, an employee letter from the Indian company
• Bank statement of the last three months
• Complete travel itinerary

As per the Saudi Arabia tourist visa photo requirements , the following are the photo specifications required - 

• Recently taken
• Coloured, with a white background
• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
• Face should cover 80% of the photo
• Facial expression - neutral
• Head in a central location
• Eyeglasses are not permitted
• Headwear - permitted in case of religious reasons

The time for processing the application usually depends on the volume of applications at the embassy. Normally, Saudi permits are processed fast. As a result, in most cases, you can receive the processed visa within 2 working days after the submission. Therefore, ensure that you apply at least a week in advance.

The Saudi tourist visa fees for Indian citizens include the application fee as well as the insurance charges that vary according to the age. Apart from this, there may be service charges for the authorized agencies as well as any additional delivery charges, etc. As a result, check the exact amount before starting the application. 

Once you have submitted the application at the authorized agencies, they will then forward them to the embassy/consulate for processing. In the meanwhile, you will not be able to withdraw or modify the application. As a result, ensure that you provide correct information and the right documents. Providing fake information or false documentation can lead to visa rejection. 

Since the mode of application is offline, it is generally not possible to track the visa status. Also, the processing time being short has also made it unnecessary to check the status. In case you require any additional help or if you need more information, you can contact the travel agency you applied through.

Note:- In case of e-visa applications from outside India, you may track it online through the portal. 

Once you have received your tourist permit, you must keep in mind the following key points to ensure that you have a safe and sound trip- 

Before travelling

• You must note the validity, stay duration, and the number of entries provided. Your trip must be in accordance with these.
• Carry all your travel documents without fail. 

At the border 

• You will have to show the documents to the border control officers at your port of entry.
• Possessing the visa will not directly allow you entry. Your entry will be decided by the border patrol officers.

In the country

• While you are in the country, you must not take part in any kind of work. 
• You must carry a copy of your passport and visa while you are travelling within the country.
• The tourist permit does not grant entry to non-muslims into the holy cities of Mecca and Medinah. 
• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strict laws regarding dress codes, public behaviour, alcohol, etc. You must strictly abide by the laws and customs during your stay. Failure to do so will lead to deportation and judicial action.
• You must leave the country on or before your expiry date or at the end of your permitted stay duration, whichever comes first. Staying back in the country after this will attract hefty fines. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i extend my saudi arabia tourist permit.

It is not possible to extend the Saudi tourist permit. The country is strict on rules regarding the visas. As a result, you must leave the country without attempting to extend. This applies for the e-visa as well. Although, other long term categories may be extended in certain conditions. 

What is the Medical Test for Saudi Tourist permit?

There is no medical test requirements for the Saudi tourist permit. The medical tests are only mandatory for work permits and other categories. However, in order to keep the citizens in the country as well as yourself safe, it is highly recommended that you get a medical check-up done before travelling. 

Can I Convert My tourist visa for Saudi into a Work Visa?

No, it is strictly not permitted or possible to convert the tourist permit into a work permit. Also, you are not allowed to work while you are on this category. In case you require to work, you must apply for the work permit once you are back in your home country. 

How Much Bank Balance is required to get a Saudi Arabia tourism permit?

As per the regulations, there is no mandatory requirements regarding the number of funds needed. The embassy requires that you possess enough funds to sustain your stay in the country. The bank statements also need to show steady transactions. Ensure that you do not have any unusual funds flowing in.

How many months before the trip should I apply for a Saudi Tourist visa?

The Saudi tourist category is issued within a few days itself. In extreme cases, it may take slightly longer. As a result, if you apply for it a week or two in advance, you will most likely receive the visa in time for your flight. 

Does Saudi Arabia grant a tourist visa to Muslims to visit Mecca and Medina?

Yes, the tourist visa can be used to enter the cities of Mecca and Medina for travellers belonging to the Muslim religion. However, the cities are restricted to people from other categories. If you are visiting the country for Hajj or Umrah, you must apply for the Hajj visa or Umrah visa instead of the regular tourist visa 

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• Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians: Types, Fees & Validity  

Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians: Types, Fees & Validity

Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has excellent infrastructure and offers all the amenities and facilities to its residents and visitors from around the world. All visitors to Saudi Arabia need to obtain a visa relevant to their stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – such as tourism, business, work, residence and business. Applicants can apply for a Saudi Arabia visa online at www.mofa.gov.sa . Here we will discuss everything about a Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians.

Also Read: Dubai Visa for Indians: Types, Eligibility & Fees | Kuwait Work Visa & Permit for Indians: An Overview

Saudi Arabia visa types for Indians

Saudi Arabia issues different types of visas and permits based on the purpose and duration of stay of applicants. 

• Business Visa
• Commercial Visa
• Employment Visa
• Work Visit Visa
• Family Visit Visa
• Student Visa
• Residence Visa
• Government Visit Visa
• Adding New-born-to-Saudi-Residence-Card
• Diplomatic and Official Visa
• Escort Visa
• Extension of Exit/Re-Entry Visa
• Personal Visit Visa
• Supplemental Journalist Visa Application

Saudi Arabia business visa

Saudi Embassies issue visitors’ visas to business people with commercial and industrial interests in Saudi Arabia. A visa applicant’s firm or agent in Saudi Arabia applies for the visa on his/her behalf to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Once the visa is approved, the embassy or consulate issues the required visa, following the instruction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

However, embassy and consular officers can directly grant a short-visit visa to foreign businessmen, if the applicant works for a large corporation already in Saudi Arabia.

Religious visa

Religious visas are issued to Muslims from all over the world who wish to visit Saudi Arabia to perform religious activities like Umrah or Hajj in the Holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.

Tourist visa

Saudi Arabia tourist visa allows tourists from around the world to discover the rich heritage, the vibrant culture, diverse and breathtaking landscapes, and experience the warm hospitality of Saudi people. 

The Saudi Arabia e-visa is a one-year, multiple entry visa that allows tourists to spend up to 90 days in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia Work visa/ residence visa

Saudi employers are required to apply for work permits with the government bodies – Interior and Labor & Saudi Affairs Ministries – on behalf of the foreign workers. Individuals who wish to stay in the Kingdom for more than three months must obtain a residence permit (Iqama). Issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Iqama is valid for two years. 

Dependents of foreign employees can get a residence visa, which doesn’t allow them to seek employment in the Kingdom. Residence visa holders need to obtain an exit visa to leave the Kingdom. 

Saudi Arabia visa application 

You can get in touch with registered visa agents to apply for a visa to Saudi Arabia. Check the list of licensed agencies on http://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/ . Here is a list of Saudi Arabia visa requirements:

• Name of the applicant
• Mother’s name
• Date and place of birth
• Nationality
• Present Nationality
• Marital Status
• Qualification
• Home & office address and contact number
• Passport details
• Purpose of travel
• Duration of stay
• Mode of payment
• Destination
• Dependent’s details, etc.
• A passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of application and has at least two blank pages for stamping.
• Recent passport size photographs with white background. 

Based on the eligibility criteria and documents submitted, your visa application will be approved or rejected. If your application is approved, you are advised not to overstay the duration mentioned on the visa. 

Visitors are required to follow the Islamic laws and regulations of Saudi Arabia and respect the traditions and values of KSA. There is a severe restriction on possession of alcoholic beverages, pork products, firearms, explosives, edged weapons, prohibited drugs and narcotics, and pornographic materials.

Saudi Arabia visa fee

Visa fee will be charged based on the visa type as under:

• VIP business visa: S.R.1,000
• Business visa multiple entry: S.R.500
• Business visa single entry: S.R.200
• Work/residence/transit/student visa: S.R.50
• No fees for the purpose of Government, Hajj, Umrah, and Extension of exit re-entry 

Also Read: Visa Status: Check Visa Status with Passport Number

Eligibility criteria

Business visit.

• Visa fee: The visa fee needs to be paid online only. As per the current rule there is no provision for any kind of offline payment. 
• Passport: A passport that is valid for at least 6 months with at least two blank pages. 
• Photographs: Passport size photographs with a white background. 
• Recommendation letter: A Recommendation letter from the Chamber of Commerce.
• Covering letter: The covering letter must contain details of the business and contact addresses of the Business Associate in Saudi Arabia, with the company’s seal on it. The covering letter should also include details like the nature of the business, the designation of the applicant. 
• Invitation letter: Invitation letter arranged by the sponsor in Saudi Arabia needs to be submitted through the Chamber of Commerce. 
• Visa validity: The visa is issued for a maximum of 90 days from the date of issue. 

Temporary work permit visa

• Visa fee: The visa fee needs to be paid online only. As per the current rule there is no provision for any kind of offline payments. 
• Covering letter: You need to submit a cover letter from an Indian organization or an individual company that includes business details and contact information. The covering letter should also include details like the designation of the applicant, nature of the business with the company’s seal on it. 
• Invitation letter: Invitation letter from the Indian Chamber of Commerce attested by Saudi Arabia Chamber of Commerce with the agreement from the company in the name of the applicant. 
• Company registration: A copy of the company’s registration. 
• Medical certificate: Medical certificate from an embassy approved doctor. 
• Experience letter: Experience letter for the past two years. 
• Education documents: Based on the type of work, you must submit your degree/diploma/ certificate attested by the Ministry of Education, Ministry of External Affairs, and the Embassy.
• Air tickets: Copy of confirmed airline tickets.  
• Visa fee: The receipt of visa fee payment of S.R. 2,000.
• Visa processing: If you fulfill Saudi Arabia work visa requirements, The visa application is processed in 4-5 working days. 
• Visa validity: The visa is issued for a maximum of 90 days from the date of issue and can be extended by the sponsor. 

Family Visit

• Visa processing: The application is processed in 4-5 working days.
• Visa validity: The visa is issued for a maximum of 90 days from the date of issue.
• Dependents: Dependents of an applicant are required to provide a marriage certificate (for married applicants) and medical certificate and birth certificate for children to visit Saudi Arabia. 

Transit Visa

In order to travel through the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to your destination, you need to get a transit visa if you spend more than 12 hours within the KSA territory. Here are the eligibility criteria to apply for a transit visa:

• Visa fee: Visa fee: The visa fee needs to be paid online only. As per the current rule there is no provision for any kind of offline payments. 
• Passport: Passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months. 
• Visa validity: The visa is issued for a maximum of 72 hours and is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. Transit visas can be extended to two weeks. 

Also Read: Indian Passport for NRI: Renewal vs Reissue

Saudi Arabia Embassies in India

You can contact the KSA Embassies in India for any further information about a Saudi Arabia visa for Indians:

Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia No – 2, Paschimi Marg, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi – 110057 Telephone: 4324 4444

Royal Consulate General of Saudi Arabia Maker Tower ‘F’, 4th Floor, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai – 400 005 Telephone:022- 2215 6001, 6002, 6003, 6004 Email: [email protected]

You can contact Saudi Embassy in India for more clarity on visa fees. If you’re looking for any assitance for NRI services such as NRI account opening, NRI Demat account, NRI investment or taxation, experts at SBNRI can help you out with everything. Download SBNRI App from the Google Play Store or App Store to ask any questions related to NRI services. Also visit our blog and Youtube Channel for more details.

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Embassy of India Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

• Home ›   Consular ›   Visa Services

VISA TO VISIT INDIA - GENERAL INFORMATION

1. E-Visas :

(i) With effect from 17.06.2019, E-Visa facility has been extended to Saudi nationals also.

(ii) E-Visas are admissible only for the following categories - eTourist Visa, eBusiness Visa, eConference Visa, eMedical Visa and eMedical Attendent Visa.

(iii) Applicants may visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html  and apply in 4 easy steps -

(a) Apply online and upload photo and passport page,

(b) Pay eVisa fees online using credit / debit card /payment wallet,

(c) If approved, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be sent to the Email provided by the applicant.

(d) Fly to India - Print ETA and present at Immigration Check Post where eVisa will be stamped on the Passport.

(iv) Application and payment of fees should be done 4 days prior to the date of travel.

(v) The applicant can contact the 24X7 Helpdesk at +91 11 24300666 (Tel) or email at indiatvoa[at]gov.in (e-mail) for further assistance on eVisa process.

2. Regular/Paper Visas :

The present system of obtaining Regular/Paper visa continues to be available.The Embassy of India, Riyadh has outsourced visa services (submission of visa applications and delivery of serviced passports) to M/s VFS GCC LLC. The outsourcing of consular services covers areas of Central and Eastern regions (Riyadh, Al Khobar, Buraidah, Al Jouf, Hail, Jubail, Al Khafji, Hafar Al Batain, Wadi Al Dawasir, Arar, Hofuf and Al Qurrayat) falling under the jurisdiction of Embassy of India, Riyadh and areas of Western, Northern and Southern regions (Jeddah, Khamis Mushait, Madinah, Makkah, Jazan, Najran, Bisha, Al Baha, Qunfudah, Yanbu, Taif) falling under the jurisdiction of Consulate General of India, Jeddah .

3.  Click here  for the Visa Application Centres of M/s VFS.

For Regular/Paper Visa Services

1. Those intending to visit India, may visit the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/indianVisaReg.jsp to fill the application form online.

2. A print out of the duly filled in and signed application form is required to be submitted along with the applicable fees, two recent passport size photographs, photocopy of ID card/Iqama, proof of confirmation of hotel accommodation, air ticket booking and passport-valid for at least six months beyond the applicable visa period at any of the  Visa application centre s of M/s VFS GCC LLC between 08.30hrs to 15.00hrs on all working days (Sunday to Thursday).

3. (i) Visa applications submitted at Jeddah and Riyadh will normally be issued on the  3rd working day except in cases which require detailed procedural formalities and clearances.

(ii) Visas applied at other centres may take a little longer.

(iii) In case of any difficulty, the applicants may contact Attaché (Visa) at visa[dot]riyadh[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in or 011-4884144 Ext 205.

4. The details of different types of visas alongwith the Visa fees can be accessed  here .

5. At the time of submission of visa application, capturing of Biometric data is mandatory except for the following categories:

(i) Diplomatic and Official passport holders;

(ii) Senior citizens (above 70 years) and minors (below 12 years);

(iii) Those who have given their biometrics previously are exempted for 5 years. This is reflected in the online visa application form as exempted till dd/mm/yyyy.

[Note: In case of medical exigencies, Attaché (Visa) may be contacted at  visa[dot]riyadh[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in  or 011-4884144 Ext 205 alongwith medical reports for exemption.]

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

1. Applicants visiting India are advised to abide by the law of the land and not to misuse status of their respective visa granted by the Indian Mission. Indulgence in any unlawful or undesirable practice will be dealt with strictly.

2. The use of Satellite telephones is not permitted in India. Under the law, people including tourists found to be making unauthorised use of satellite telephone services will be prosecuted and any such set found in possession of any individual will be seized.

3. Any person seeking a visa to India for purpose of entering into a surrogacy arrangement must ascertain beforehand whether the law of the applicant’s country permits surrogacy and will provide appropriate travel documents to the child for accompanying the surrogate parents. Entering into surrogacy arrangement under any other visa not sought for surrogacy is punishable under the Indian law.

4. Foreign Nationals arriving in India on a short visit or for tourism purposes are allowed to carry a maximum of Rs. 25000 in Indian currency of any denomination. As instances of counterfeit currency have come to notice of the Indian authorities, it is also advised that such currency should be procured from authorized agents with receipt or other authorized sources only. Travellers found in possession of any such counterfeit currencies may face prosecution as per the relevant provisions of the Indian law.

5. For other closed holidays for the Embassy, please check  List of Holidays .

6. Validity of the visa issued

(i) The period of valdity of visa begins from the date of issue of visa.

(ii) The Embassy reserves the right to refuse visa without assigning any reason.

(iii) Visa fee is charged regardless of whether visa is issued or not.

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Saudi Visa Fee

A Saudi Arabia visa is an official authorization which is issued by the Saudi government. It is intended for foreign nationals who wish to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for various purposes, including tourism, business, work, studying, pilgrimage, and many more. Obtaining a visa to enter Saudi Arabia is essential for most foreign visitors. It ensures the security of the country as well as regulates the inflow of visitors.

Common visas obtained by foreigners include the Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Work Visa, Student Visa, Hajj Visa, Umrah Visa, and Transit Visa. Each type of visa has specific requirements, including differing application procedures, validity periods, and visa fees. It is essential for travelers to choose the appropriate visa type based on the purpose of their trip and their intended activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The KSA visa fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality.

Table of contents

Saudi arabia visa fee.

Understanding visa fees when planning travel to Saudi Arabia is essential as it directly impacts the overall cost of your trip. It is crucial to make sure you are financially prepared for your trip. The visa fee may vary based on several factors, including your nationality, the duration of your stay, and the type of visa you need for your trip. For example, the Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa cost is different from the price of the KSA Residence Visa. Visa fees may change periodically due to updates in immigration policies. It is essential to check the official website of the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate for your country to ensure you have the most accurate information.

You may also incur additional charges if you require expedited processing. If you require urgent visa processing due to last-minute travel plans or unforeseen circumstances, you will likely pay a significantly higher fee. It is essential to understand these charges to assess whether the urgency of your trip justifies the additional cost.

Understanding the visa fee is an incredibly important aspect of trip planning. You should be sure that you are accurately financially planning. By being aware of the factors influencing visa fees, travelers can make informed decisions about the visa application, helping you to navigate the visa application process more effectively.

Saudi Arabia Visa Types and Costs

There are numerous different visa types available for entry into Saudi Arabia. The purpose of your trip will help you determine which visa is best for you. Based on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for, the requirements, eligibility, and visa fees will differ. It’s important to thoroughly understand the specifics of the visa you wish to apply for based on your nationality. It is advisable to check your country’s official Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate website for the most accurate and up-to-date information for your nationality.

Tourist Visa

The most common Saudi Arabia visa is the Tourist Visa. This is intended for individuals visiting the country for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting cultural sites. The Saudi Tourist Visa fee varies depending on the applicant’s nationality, duration of stay, and processing time. The price may range from $50 to $300. Citizens of certain countries may need to provide additional information including proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, and sufficient funds during their stay. Many nationalities also have the option to apply for the Tourist Visa online. The Saudi Arabia e-visa fee varies based on your nationality, but is typically either 340 Saudi Riyal (equivalent to around 90.50 USD) or 494 Saudi Riyal (equivalent to around 131 USD). When applying online, the Saudi Arabia visa processing time is typically less than 2 business days.

Business Visa

The Saudi Business Visa is issued to individuals that are traveling to the country for business purposes, including meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Similarly to the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa price, the cost of the Business Visa varies based on nationality, duration, and processing time. Fees may range from approximately 100 USD to 500 USD. When applying for this visa, the applicant may need to provide a letter of invitation from a Saudi company, along with any other relevant business documents. You may incur additional fees if you require expedited processing for urgent business trips. There are a variety of reasons that people may visit Saudi Arabia for business purposes, but some of the most common business affairs include attending meetings/conferences, negotiating contracts/partnerships, exploring business opportunities, visiting clients, conducting market research, or attending a training or workshop.

The Saudi Work Visa is for foreigners who intend to work in Saudi Arabia, whether as employees of a Saudi company or as a self-employed individual. The Saudi Arabia Work Visa cost can vary significantly depending on the type of employment, duration of stay, and the nationality of the applicant. Fees may range from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. The Saudi employer typically sponsors the employee, covering this cost. When applying, applicants may need to undergo medical examinations and provide various documents, including a job offer, employment contract, and educational qualifications. People who obtain work visas typically work in a wide range of industries and professions, but some typical jobs held by expatriates in Saudi Arabia include engineering, healthcare, teaching and education, hospitality and tourism, finance, and information technology (IT).

Student Visa

The Saudi Arabia Student Visa is for those who have been accepted to study at educational institutions in the country. This allows foreign individuals to reside in Saudi Arabia legally for the purpose of pursuing their education. The fees for this visa vary based on the duration of study, the educational institutions, and the nationality of the applicant. It is most common for the price of this visa to be anywhere from $100 to $500. When applying, students will need to provide an acceptance letter from the educational institution and health insurance coverage. You will also need to provide proof of financial means proving that you have the funds to pay for the visa fee, your tuition, and the cost of living in Saudi Arabia. Typically, once an educational institution has accepted you into the school, they will facilitate the visa application process on behalf of you as the student.

The Hajj Visa is specifically for Muslims who wish to visit Saudi Arabia to take the pilgrimage to Mecca during the annual Hajj season. This occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for able-bodied Muslims who can afford the journey. The Hajj Visa is typically issued through authorized travel agents or Hajj tour operators in the pilgrim’s home country. To apply, you must be able to provide proof of Muslim faith, along with other documents including a valid passport, medical certificate, and proof of accommodation arrangements. Hajj Visas are valid for a limited period of time and typically only cover the duration of the Hajj pilgrimage, which only lasts several days. Pilgrims are required to depart Saudi Arabia shortly after the pilgrimage and leisure or tourism activities are not permitted when visiting with this visa. The Hajj Visa fee typically ranges from approximately 200 USD to 300 USD depending on your nationality. You may incur additional charges based on the visa processing time and if you are using support services provided by a travel agency or tour operator.

The Umrah Visa is for Muslims coming to Saudi Arabia to perform the lesser pilgrimage, known as Umrah, to Mecca and Medina at any time of the year outside of the Hajj season. Umrah is considered a highly recommended act of worship in Islam and can be undertaken by Muslims at their convenience. The Umrah Visa is typically obtained through an authorized travel agent or Umrah tour operator, and proof of Muslim faith must be able to be proven. Umrah visas are usually valid for a specified period that allows pilgrims to perform Umrah rituals within a specific timeframe, although the duration may vary depending on certain regulations. Saudi Arabia visa fees for Umrah are generally lower compared to the Hajj Visa and typically range from approximately 100 USD to 150 USD. Additional charges may include visa processing and other services provided by the travel agency or tour operator.

Transit Visa

The Saudi Transit Visa is for travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia to reach their final destination. Transit Visas are typically valid for a short duration, usually 72 hours. This visa allows a short stay of up to 72 hours in Saudi Arabia. It is suitable for those with connecting flights or brief stopovers in the country. There may be specific eligibility criteria based on the traveler’s itinerary and nationality. A Transit Visa is usually lower compared to the other visa options and is typically approximately 20 USD to 100 USD. Additional fees may be required for expedited processing or extended transit stays.

Family Visit Visa

The Family Visit Visa allows individuals to visit their relatives or family members who are residents or citizens of Saudi Arabia for a temporary period. This facilitates family reunification and allows families to spend time together. Family members such as spouses, parents, children, siblings, and in-laws may be eligible for this visa. The sponsoring family member in Saudi Arabia must meet certain criteria and provide the necessary documentation. The Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa fee varies based on a number of factors, including the nationality of the visitor, duration of stay, and the processing time. Typically, the Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa fee will range from anywhere between $50 to $200. Applicants may need to pay additional fees for services such as medical insurance, document attestation, and translation of supporting documents.

Medical Treatment Visa

The Saudi Medical Treatment Visa is for foreigners who are traveling to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment, surgeries, or specialized healthcare services. Patients seeking treatment must obtain sponsorship from a recognized healthcare facility or medical service provider, providing medical reports, treatment plans, and other relevant documentation. The standard price for the Medical Treatment Visa usually falls between 100 USD to 500 USD. Additional fees for this include the price of medical tests or examinations as well as the cost of healthcare services, consultations, hospitalization, and other medical expenses. This visa is valid for the duration of the medical treatment as specified in the treatment plan.

Diplomatic and Official Visa

Diplomatic and Official Visas are issued to diplomats, government officials, and representatives of international organizations traveling to Saudi Arabia for official purposes. These may include diplomatic missions, conferences, or meetings. Diplomatic and Official Visas are often exempt from visa fees or may be subject to reduced fees as part of diplomatic or official protocols. There may be administrative fees or service charges that still need to be paid. The validity of these visas is typically for the duration of the official assignment or as specified in the visa documentation. There is the possibility to extend or renew as needed.

Investor Visa

The Saudi Investor Visa is for foreign investors seeking to establish or invest in businesses in Saudi Arabia. The purpose of it is to facilitate investment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the country by providing legal authorization for investors to engage in business activities. The fees for an Investor Visa vary depending on factors including the type of investment, size of investment, and processing requirements. Including visa processing fees, investment licensing fees, administrative charges, and legal and consultation fees, the total cost of the Investor Visa typically falls within the range of approximately 500 USD to 5,000 USD, depending on individual circumstances and specific requirements. Investor Visas are usually valid for the duration of the investment or business venture with the possibility of renewal or extension as needed.

Journalist Visa

Journalist Visas are issued to journalists, media personnel, and representatives of press organizations traveling to Saudi Arabia for journalistic assignments or reporting purposes. It facilitates the freedom of the press, media coverage, and journalistic activities. The fees for a Journalist Visa vary depending on factors such as the media organization’s accreditation status, duration of stay, and the processing requirements. The standard price may range from approximately $50 to $200 and is on a case-by-case basis from the Saudi embassy or consulate. The validity differs depending on the purpose of the visit and the nature of the journalistic activities. It may range from a few days to several months and may or may not allow for multiple entries.

Residence Visa

The Saudi Residence Visa allows individuals to reside in Saudi Arabia for an extended period of time. It provides legal authorization to live and work in the country. The eligibility varies depending on the purpose of living in the country, factors include employment sponsorship, family ties, or investment in the country. Employers or family members typically act as sponsors for Residence Visa applicants. The fees vary based on nationality, type of sponsorship, and duration of the visa. There are several costs that go into applying for this visa, including visa processing fees, residency permit fees, medical examination fees, and sponsorship fees. The total typically ranges from 500 USD to 2,000 USD depending on individual circumstances. Residence Visas are typically valid for one to two years and can be renewed as needed.

Does the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia visa cost differ based on nationality?

Yes, the KSA visa cost is based on nationality. For example, the Saudi Arabia visa fee for Pakistan nationals may be different from citizens of the United States. If you go to the official website: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/ you can choose your nationality to discover your country’s visa charges for Saudi Arabia. For example, if you want to know the visa fees for Saudi Arabia from an Indian passport, you can put India in the drop-down box and the site will provide all of your visa application options and how much they will cost.

Are visa fees refundable?

Visa fees are generally non-refundable. Whether your visa application was denied or you decide to no longer go to Saudi Arabia, you will not be refunded for your visa application fee.

If I apply online for a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa, how long can I stay in the country?

The Saudi e-Tourist Visa is valid for 1 year from the date of acceptance. You are eligible to stay in the country for a total of 90 days. The 3-month Saudi Arabia visa price is approximately 132 USD.

Saudi authorities have warned visit visa holders to refrain from entering Makkah until the 21st of the next month amidst the Hajj season.

Radio Pakistan’s Correspondent Bilal Khan Mehsud reports from Makkah that the Saudi Interior Ministry has stated that visit visas do not entitle holders to perform Hajj.

Pakistani visitors currently in Saudi Arabia with visit visas are urged to avoid travel to Makkah during the designated period, as violators will be subject to hefty penalties.

This is part of the security and organizational measures being taken by the Interior Ministry to ensure the safety of legal pilgrims and facilitate their rituals with ease and comfort.

The ministry also announced fines amounting to 10,000 Saudi Riyals for violators, including Saudi citizens, expatriates, and visitors caught entering Makkah without a Hajj permit from the 2nd to the 20th of the next month.

Israel-Gaza latest: Hamas responds to ceasefire proposal - as Netanyahu casts doubt on deal

Joe Biden announced a surprise plan with three phases: the first would be a six-week ceasefire, the second the return of remaining hostages, and the third a reconstruction plan for Gaza. We'll be bringing you all the reaction to this throughout the day.

Sunday 2 June 2024 07:16, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• US President Joe Biden announces new ceasefire and hostage deal proposal
• Hamas views latest proposed deal 'positively'
• Israel's conditions for ending the war have not changed, Netanyahu's office says
• Chances of ceasefire 'not that realistic', expert says  
• Egypt making 'intensive efforts' to resume negotiations - report
• Israeli opposition leader urges Netanyahu to take deal - and says he will prop up government
• Explained: What is in Biden's three-phase plan?
• Analysis: Israel seemed blindsided by Biden announcement
• Live reporting by Emily Mee

We will be focusing on our general election coverage tomorrow, but we'll be back with more live updates on the Israel-Hamas war next week. 

Models Bella and Gigi Hadid are collectively donating one million dollars (£785,000) to support relief efforts, according to their agent. 

The money will go to Heal Palestine, Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF), World Central Kitchen (WCK), and United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

The sisters have frequently been vocal in their support for Gaza, and their father Mohamed Anwar Hadid is himself Palestinian. 

After Hamas's 7 October attack on Israel, Gigi, 29, offered her condolences to those affected.

"My thoughts are with all those affected by this unjustifiable tragedy, and every day that innocent lives are taken by this conflict - too many of which are children," she wrote on Instagram.

"I have deep empathy and heartbreak for the Palestinian struggle and life under occupation, it's a responsibility I hold daily."

She added: "While I have hopes and dreams for Palestinians, none of them include the harm of a Jewish person."

Bella, 27, said in May that she was "devastated at the loss of the Palestinian people and the lack of empathy coming from the government systems worldwide".

The United Nations food agency has said it is unable to feed most civilians in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. 

Only 27,000 people in Rafah are currently being reached by the World Food Programme (WFP), according to its local director Matthew Hollingworth. 

Roughly one million Palestinians are living in the area, many of them displaced from other parts of Gaza. 

"The sounds, the smells, the everyday life are horrific and apocalyptic," Mr Hollingworth told journalists. 

"People sleep to the sounds of bombing, they sleep to the sounds of drones, they sleep to the sounds of war, as now tanks roll into parts of central Rafah, which is only kilometers away. And they wake to the same sounds." 

A ceasefire proposal consisting of three phases has been outlined by Joe Biden. 

What do those phases entail, what have Israel and Hamas said about the plan and how does it compare to the last proposal?

Read more below...

The French president has backed the ceasefire proposal set out by Joe Biden last night. 

Emmanuel Macron said he supported the proposal for "a durable peace" and that the war "must end". 

France is also working with partners in the region on "peace and security for all", he said. 

A high-level official has said Egypt is undertaking "intensive efforts" to "resume negotiations" for a ceasefire and hostage deal, according to a report. 

The official, quoted by Al-Qahera TV, said this was "in light of the recent American proposition". 

Last night, Joe Biden detailed a ceasefire and hostage deal proposal that he said Israel had put to Hamas. 

However, Israeli officials have told our correspondents they were "blindsided" by the announcement. 

If it works, then this will be a smart and cunning diplomatic move.

If it doesn't then President Joe Biden will look foolish.

He knows the huge risk of once again being taken for a ride by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Few knew that he was due to make this announcement.

Read more from our US correspondent Mark Stone below...

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has said 33 of its employees have been killed in Gaza since the war began. 

Of those, it said 19 were killed "while performing their humanitarian duties". 

The organisation today buried Mohammed Jihad Abed, an employee in the disaster risk management department. 

He was killed in an Israeli attack on his home in Rafah last night. 

American, Egyptian and Israeli officials will be meeting tomorrow in Cairo to discuss the reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing, according to a report. 

Egypt is insisting that Israel withdraw its forces from the crossing, a high-level source told Egypt's state-linked Al Qahera TV. 

Israel seized the Gaza side of the crossing last month during its offensive in the city of Rafah. 

Earlier this week, a member of Egypt's security forces was killed in a shooting incident near the Rafah crossing.

An Egyptian soldier stationed on a watchtower had reacted to seeing an armoured vehicle carrying Israeli troops cross a boundary line near the border while the soldiers pursued and killed several Palestinians, two Egyptian security sources told Reuters news agency. 

The soldier opened fire and Israeli forces fired back, killing him, the sources said, sparking an exchange of gunfire between the two sides. 

The British prime minister has praised the proposed ceasefire deal set out by Joe Biden, saying it is "welcome news". 

Rishi Sunak said he hopes Hamas "takes this opportunity to take this deal that is on the table, [and] that would ensure hostages can be released and be back with their families". 

He also expressed hopes to "flood Gaza with far more aid than has been getting in" and to "use that pause in the fighting to build a sustainable and lasting peace". 

Mr Sunak joins a growing group of world leaders expressing support for the deal, which will only put more pressure on Israel and Hamas. 

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