Where to Apply for a Family Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia?
For expatriates living in Saudi Arabia, bringing loved ones over—whether for a short visit or an extended stay—is often a top priority. Fortunately, the Saudi Family Visit Visa process is structured and accessible. But many residents still ask: Where do you apply for a family visit visa in Saudi Arabia?
This article offers a step-by-step breakdown of the online platforms and offline entities involved in the application process, ensuring you follow the correct path from submission to approval.
Primary Platform: The MOFA Website
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is the central authority for initiating family visit visa applications in Saudi Arabia.
✅ Website: https://visa.mofa.gov.sa
Here’s what you can do on MOFA:
- Submit the online visit visa application form
- Upload documents like passport copies and relationship proofs
- Generate the application reference number
- Check the application status
Who Can Apply on MOFA?
Only Iqama holders (expat residents) with valid residency and an approved profession can apply.
You’ll need:
- Valid Iqama and passport
- National address registration
- Relationship documents (attested)
Next Step: Chamber of Commerce Attestation
Once the MOFA application is submitted, it must be attested by the Chamber of Commerce (CoC).
🏢 Options:
- Online CoC portal (for companies with access)
- Offline attestation (go to nearest Chamber of Commerce office)
Attestation links your application to your employer and validates your job status.
Final Stage: Visa Processing at Saudi Embassy or VFS Center
After approval by MOFA, the visitor (your family member) must:
- Submit passport and required documents to a Saudi Embassy or authorized VFS center in their home country
- Complete biometric data and medical insurance (if applicable)
VFS Tasheel Centers are the official visa processing partners for Saudi Arabia.
Website: https://www.vfstasheel.com
Offline Alternatives: In-Person Application Help
If you need help applying:
- Visit Tawasul Services (authorized agents in KSA)
- Seek help from HR departments (many companies assist employees)
- Use expat service centers in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam
These services can help with:
- MOFA form filling
- Arabic translations
- Document uploads
Start Online, Finish Globally
The family visit visa journey in Saudi Arabia starts on the MOFA portal, continues with Chamber of Commerce validation, and ends with embassy visa stamping. By following each step carefully, you can ensure your loved ones join you with minimal hassle.