Saudi Arabia eases family visa rules for skilled foreign workers

Saudi Arabia has changed its family visa rules to allow skilled expatriate workers to process entry visas for dependants alongside their work visas.

According to Peoples Gazette, the Ministry of Interior announced the change in coordination with the ministries of foreign affairs and human resources and social development.

The arrangement means workers no longer have to complete their work visa process before applying for entry visas for family members.

“Eligible dependents include spouses, sons under 25, and unmarried daughters,” the ministry said, adding that visas may be processed concurrently with the worker’s visa.

The measure is aimed at improving expatriates’ quality of life and reducing waiting periods for families relocating to the Kingdom.

However, residency procedures for spouses and children must be completed after arrival.

“Residency procedures will be finalized after arrival in the Kingdom, in accordance with applicable regulations and guidelines,” the ministry said.

The change does not apply to all relatives, with applicants required to meet eligibility rules.