How To Apply Exit Re-Entry Visa For Family – A Comprehensive Guide by Alahad Group
Navigating the process of obtaining an exit re-entry visa for your family in Saudi Arabia can feel daunting. Alahad Group aims to simplify this process, providing a detailed guide covering every aspect, from eligibility to required documents, and the application process itself. Understanding these steps will ensure a smooth and efficient experience, allowing your family to travel outside Saudi Arabia and return without complications.
I. Understanding the Exit Re-Entry Visa System in Saudi Arabia
The exit re-entry visa is a crucial document for expatriate residents in Saudi Arabia who wish to travel outside the Kingdom and return legally. It is essentially permission granted by the Saudi government allowing the holder to leave and re-enter the country within a specified timeframe. This visa is typically sponsored by the expatriate’s employer or, in the case of family members, by the expatriate resident acting as their sponsor.
Types of Exit Re-Entry Visas:
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Single Exit Re-Entry Visa: This visa allows for a single exit and re-entry to Saudi Arabia within a specified period, usually ranging from a few weeks to several months, as determined by the sponsor and the Iqama’s validity. Once the holder leaves and returns, the visa expires.
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Multiple Exit Re-Entry Visa: This visa permits multiple exits and re-entries to Saudi Arabia within its validity period, typically for a duration of three months, six months, or one year. It is often preferred by individuals who frequently travel for business or personal reasons. The Iqama’s validity must cover the entire duration of the multiple entry visa.
II. Eligibility Criteria for Family Members
To be eligible for an exit re-entry visa, family members must meet specific requirements, primarily dependent on their relationship to the sponsor and the validity of their Iqama (residence permit).
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Dependents: Generally, spouses and children who are registered as dependents under the sponsor’s Iqama are eligible. The definition of “children” typically includes unmarried daughters and sons below a certain age (often 18 or 25 if they are students). Specific age limits may vary and should be confirmed with the Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports).
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Iqama Validity: The Iqama of both the sponsor and the dependent family member must be valid for the duration of the requested exit re-entry visa. If the Iqama is nearing expiry, renewal should be prioritized before applying for the exit re-entry visa.
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No Outstanding Traffic Violations: Both the sponsor and the family member should have no outstanding traffic violations registered against their Iqama. Any unpaid fines must be settled before applying for the visa.
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Sponsor’s Status: The sponsor must be actively employed and have a valid work permit (if applicable) to sponsor family members for exit re-entry visas.
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Passport Validity: The passport of the family member must have a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended date of return to Saudi Arabia.
III. Required Documents for Application
Gathering all necessary documents beforehand is crucial for a smooth application process. The specific documents required may vary slightly depending on the application method (online or in person), but the following list provides a comprehensive overview:
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Sponsor’s Iqama (Original and Copy): The original Iqama is required for verification purposes, and a copy is needed for the application file.
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Family Member’s Iqama (Original and Copy): Similarly, both the original and a copy of the family member’s Iqama are required.
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Sponsor’s Passport (Copy): A clear copy of the sponsor’s passport, including the personal information page and any relevant visa pages.
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Family Member’s Passport (Copy): A clear copy of the family member’s passport, including the personal information page and any relevant visa pages.
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Exit Re-Entry Visa Application Form: This form can be obtained online through the Absher platform or from the Jawazat office. It needs to be filled out accurately and completely in Arabic or English.
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Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of the family member, adhering to Saudi Arabian passport photo specifications (typically white background, no eyeglasses, etc.).
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Letter of Authorization (If Applicable): If someone is applying on behalf of the sponsor, a letter of authorization from the sponsor is required, along with a copy of the authorized person’s Iqama.
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Employer Letter (If Applicable): In some cases, the Jawazat may require a letter from the sponsor’s employer confirming their employment and supporting the family member’s exit re-entry visa application. This letter should be on the company’s official letterhead, stamped and signed by an authorized representative.
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Proof of Relationship (If Applicable): Documents such as marriage certificates or birth certificates may be required to prove the relationship between the sponsor and the family member, especially if the names on the Iqama and passport do not match exactly. Translated versions of these documents might be necessary if they are not originally in Arabic or English.
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Visa Fee Receipt: Payment of the required visa fee is mandatory. The fee amount varies depending on the type and duration of the visa. The receipt should be attached to the application.
IV. Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
There are primarily two methods for applying for an exit re-entry visa for family members: online through the Absher platform and in person at the Jawazat office. The online method is generally preferred for its convenience and efficiency.
A. Online Application via Absher:
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Register/Login to Absher: The sponsor must have an active Absher account. If not, registration is required through the Absher website or mobile app. This involves verifying their identity through a biometric process.
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Access the “Visa Services” Section: Once logged in, navigate to the “Visa Services” section. This might be located under “My Services” or a similar menu option.
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Select “Exit/Re-entry Visa”: Within the Visa Services section, choose the “Exit/Re-entry Visa” option.
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Select Family Member: The system will display a list of dependents registered under the sponsor’s Iqama. Select the family member for whom you are applying for the exit re-entry visa.
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Specify Visa Type and Duration: Choose the type of visa (single or multiple) and the desired duration. Ensure that the chosen duration does not exceed the validity of the Iqama. The system will usually calculate the applicable fee based on the selected duration.
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Review Application Details: Carefully review all the information entered to ensure accuracy. Any errors could lead to delays or rejection of the application.
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Pay the Visa Fee: Proceed to pay the visa fee online using a credit card or SADAD account.
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Print the Visa: After successful payment, the system will generate an electronic exit re-entry visa. Print this visa and keep it with the family member’s passport.
B. In-Person Application at the Jawazat Office:
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Visit the Nearest Jawazat Office: Locate the nearest Jawazat (Passport Office) in your area.
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Obtain the Application Form: Obtain the exit re-entry visa application form from the Jawazat office.
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Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the application form accurately and legibly in Arabic or English.
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Gather Required Documents: Ensure that you have all the required documents mentioned earlier.
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Submit the Application: Submit the completed application form and all supporting documents to the designated counter at the Jawazat office.
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Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the visa fee at the designated payment counter.
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Receive the Visa: After verification and approval, the exit re-entry visa will be issued.
V. Important Considerations and Potential Issues
While the application process is generally straightforward, several factors can lead to delays or complications. Understanding these potential issues can help you avoid them and ensure a smoother experience.
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Iqama Expiry: As mentioned earlier, the Iqama must be valid for the duration of the exit re-entry visa. Applying for a visa with an expiring Iqama is a common reason for rejection. Renew the Iqama well in advance of applying for the visa.
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Traffic Violations: Unpaid traffic violations can prevent the issuance of an exit re-entry visa. Ensure that all traffic fines are settled before applying. You can check for any outstanding violations through the Absher platform or the Ministry of Interior’s website.
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Incorrect Information: Providing inaccurate or incomplete information on the application form can lead to delays or rejection. Double-check all details before submitting the application.
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Passport Validity: Ensure that the family member’s passport has sufficient validity (at least six months beyond the intended date of return). Renew the passport if necessary before applying for the visa.
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Sponsor’s Status: The sponsor’s employment status and work permit (if applicable) must be valid. Any issues with the sponsor’s residency status can affect the family member’s visa application.
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Absher Account Issues: Problems with the Absher account, such as login issues or account verification problems, can hinder the online application process. Contact Absher support for assistance if you encounter any issues.
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Jawazat Regulations: Jawazat regulations and procedures can change periodically
