How to apply for a Saudi family visit visa

Understand the two stages

A family visit visa is for a temporary visit. It does not give a relative Saudi residence or an Iqama, and it should not be confused with a family residence entry visa. The process normally has two distinct stages:

1. The resident in Saudi Arabia submits a family visit request and obtains the official request or authorisation details.
2. The relative outside Saudi Arabia completes the visa application and any passport, biometric, insurance or document steps specified for the country where they apply.

Keeping these stages separate avoids a common mistake: treating a request number as permission to travel. Do not purchase a non-refundable ticket until the visa has been issued and its details have been checked.

Before starting the request

• Confirm that the resident’s Iqama, passport record and contact details are current.
• Use the visitor’s name exactly as it appears in the passport. Check passport number, nationality, date of birth and expiry date.
• Prepare evidence of the family relationship if the service asks for it. Documents may need translation or authentication depending on the case.
• Ask each visitor to check passport validity and the requirements applying in their country of application.
• Use only the official Ministry or Saudi Visa address. Avoid agents who promise approval.

The platform controls which relationships and application types can be selected. Because eligibility can depend on the applicant’s records and current policy, this guide does not provide an assumed list of relatives or professions.

Submit the Saudi-side request

1. Open the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Family Visit Request page or enter through the Saudi Visa platform.
2. Sign in using the identity method offered to residents. Approve any genuine digital identity request only after checking that it matches the service you opened.
3. Select the family visit service for residents and read the live conditions.
4. Enter the resident’s details and the address or employer information requested by the form.
5. Add each visitor separately, copying all passport details exactly. Use the relationship and purpose options presented by the service rather than translating them from an old guide.
6. Review the declaration, submit the request and save the application number and a copy of the submission.
7. Follow any electronic authentication or employer-related instruction generated for your case. Do not assume that a printed stamp or office visit is always required.

After the request is approved

Send the visitor the approved request information and direct them to the official Saudi Visa process for their location. The exact next step may vary by nationality and place of residence. The applicant should follow the portal’s instructions for documents, biometrics, passport handling and insurance. Pay only the amounts displayed by an official channel and obtain receipts.

When the visa is issued, check the visitor’s name, passport number, permitted entries and the stay information printed on it. Visa validity and permitted length of stay are separate concepts. Follow the visa itself and use the official visa enquiry service if status needs to be checked.