Saudi Family Visit Visa 2026 | Step-by-Step Online Guide
If you are a Saudi citizen or an expatriate with a valid Iqama, you can invite your first-degree family members (such as your spouse, parents, or children) to Saudi Arabia by applying for a Family Visit Visa through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Visa Platform. The application is completed online and, if approved, your family members can complete the visa process through the Saudi embassy or an authorized visa center in their country. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
What is a Saudi Family Visit Visa?
A Family Visit Visa allows Saudi citizens and eligible residents to invite close family members for a temporary visit to Saudi Arabia.
Eligible family members include:
- Husband or Wife
- Father and Mother
- Son and Daughter
- Father-in-law and Mother-in-law (subject to eligibility)
- Other relatives may depend on current regulations and sponsor eligibility. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Requirements
Before applying, prepare the following:
- Valid Saudi Iqama (for expatriates)
- Valid passport
- Active Absher/Nafath account
- National Address (if applicable)
- Visitor’s passport copy
- Visitor’s personal information
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
- Employer/Chamber authentication if required for your category. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Step 1: Visit the Saudi Visa Platform
Open the official Saudi Visa Platform:
Click Individuals Login and sign in using Nafath.
Step 2: Select “Family Visit Visa”
After logging in:
- Select Services for Citizens and Residents
- Click Family Visit Visa Application
- Start a new application. (My Gov)
Step 3: Enter Sponsor Information
The system may automatically retrieve much of your information.
Verify:
- Full Name
- Iqama Number
- Mobile Number
- Nationality
- Occupation
- Employer
Correct any incorrect information before proceeding.
Step 4: Add Visitor Information
Enter the visitor’s details exactly as shown in the passport:
- Full Name
- Nationality
- Religion
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Passport Number
- Passport Issue Date
- Passport Expiry Date
- Place of Issue
Ensure there are no spelling mistakes, as mismatched passport information can delay or reject the application. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Step 5: Select Relationship
Choose the correct relationship:
- Wife
- Husband
- Father
- Mother
- Son
- Daughter
Upload proof of relationship if requested.
Step 6: Review Your Application
Before submitting:
- Check names carefully.
- Verify passport numbers.
- Confirm dates.
- Review contact details.
Click Submit.
Step 7: Authentication (If Required)
Some resident applications require authentication through:
- Employer
- Chamber of Commerce
Saudi citizens may not need this step depending on the application type. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Step 8: Track Your Application
After submission, note your application number.
You can track the status through the official Visa Platform:
Possible statuses include:
- Under Review
- Approved
- Returned for Correction
- Rejected
(My Gov)
Step 9: Complete Visa Stamping
Once the invitation is approved:
- Send the application number to your family member.
- They should visit the Saudi Embassy or an authorized visa service center in their country.
- Submit:
- Passport
- Visa application
- Medical insurance (if required)
- Photograph
- Supporting documents
- Wait for visa issuance. (My Gov)
Processing Time
Typical processing times are:
- MOFA approval: 2–7 working days
- Embassy processing: 3–10 working days
Processing times can vary depending on the embassy and document verification. (My Gov)
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Passport details do not match.
- Invalid or expired Iqama.
- Incorrect relationship selected.
- Missing supporting documents.
- Visitor is not an eligible family member. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Helpful Tips
- Ensure your Iqama is valid before applying.
- Enter visitor names exactly as printed in their passports.
- Keep digital copies of all submitted documents.
- Check application status regularly.
- Make sure visitors comply with the visa validity period, as sponsors may face penalties if visitors overstay. (The Economic Times)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Saudi citizens and eligible residents with a valid work Iqama can apply to invite first-degree relatives. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Can I invite my brother or sister?
Eligibility depends on current MOFA regulations and the sponsor’s status; first-degree relatives are generally prioritized. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Is medical insurance required?
Yes, medical insurance is typically required before the visa is issued. (My Gov)
Can I check my application online?
Yes. Use the official Saudi Visa Platform to track the status of your application. (Visa MOFA)
