How to Change a Work Visa to a Family Visa in Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide
Changing your visa status in Saudi Arabia can be a complex process, especially if you’re aiming to switch from a work visa to a family visa. This guide simplifies the process, ensuring you understand the legal, procedural, and cultural aspects necessary for a smooth transition.
1. Understanding the Visa Types
- Work Visa (Iqama-based): Granted to foreign nationals employed by Saudi companies.
- Family Visa (Dependent or Family Residence Visa): Allows expatriates to bring their immediate family members (spouse, children) to reside in the Kingdom.
2. Key Eligibility Requirements
To change a work visa to a family visa:
- You must exit the Kingdom and re-enter under a new visa type.
- Your sponsor (typically an employer) must cancel your Iqama and final exit visa must be issued.
- A Saudi resident (usually a spouse) must be eligible and willing to sponsor you under a family visa.
3. Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Exit on Final Exit Visa
Your employer should:
- Cancel your work permit.
- Issue a final exit visa through the Absher system or Jawazat office.
Step 2: Apply for a Family Visa
Your spouse or family sponsor (who must be legally residing in Saudi Arabia) should:
- Submit an application via Absher or visit the Istiqdam office.
- Provide supporting documents:
- Valid Iqama
- Marriage certificate (translated and attested)
- Children’s birth certificates (if applicable)
- Salary certificate (minimum required income applies)
- Attested housing contract
- Passport copies
Step 3: Enter Saudi Arabia on the Family Visa
Once the family visa is approved:
- It will be issued electronically.
- You can apply for a visa stamp from the Saudi Embassy in your home country.
- Upon arrival, an Iqama (residency permit) will be issued under the family category.
4. Important Considerations
- Profession Eligibility: Not all job titles allow sponsorship for dependents. Ensure the sponsoring person holds a profession eligible for family sponsorship.
- Salary Threshold: The sponsor must meet a minimum income requirement (usually above SAR 5,000–8,000 depending on family size).
- Accommodation Proof: A valid rental contract registered on the Ejar system is mandatory.
5. Common Challenges
- Long approval times
- Incomplete documentation
- Non-compliance with Iqama profession rules
- Embassy delays in visa stamping
To avoid issues, ensure all documents are correctly translated and authenticated (by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Embassy if outside KSA).
Conclusion
Changing from a work visa to a family visa in Saudi Arabia involves exiting on a final exit visa and re-entering under a new sponsorship. It requires coordination with employers, sponsors, and government authorities. With the correct steps and complete documents, the process can be completed within a few weeks.