How To Issue Exit Re-Entry Visa for Family Members in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide by Alahad Group
Navigating the intricacies of Saudi Arabian immigration procedures can be daunting, especially when it involves family members. The Exit Re-Entry visa, a crucial document for expatriates residing in the Kingdom, allows dependents to travel outside Saudi Arabia and return within a specified timeframe. This detailed guide, brought to you by Alahad Group, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the process, requirements, and nuances associated with issuing Exit Re-Entry visas for your family.
Understanding the Exit Re-Entry Visa
The Exit Re-Entry visa is a permit that allows foreign residents (Iqama holders) in Saudi Arabia to leave the country and return within a defined period. It’s essential for those who wish to maintain their residency status while traveling abroad for vacation, business, or personal reasons. For family members, who are typically dependents of the Iqama holder, obtaining this visa is equally critical to ensure their smooth return to the Kingdom. There are two main types:
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Single Exit Re-Entry Visa: This visa allows for a single exit and re-entry within a specified duration, usually ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the employer’s discretion and the Iqama validity.
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Multiple Exit Re-Entry Visa: This visa permits multiple exits and re-entries within a specific period, commonly valid for three, six, or twelve months. The Iqama holder and their dependents can travel in and out of Saudi Arabia as many times as needed during the validity period of the visa.
Eligibility Criteria for Family Members
Before initiating the Exit Re-Entry visa application for your family, ensure they meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Valid Iqama: The most fundamental requirement is a valid Iqama (residency permit) for each family member seeking the visa. The Iqama’s expiration date must extend beyond the intended return date to Saudi Arabia. Check this information carefully via the Absher platform.
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Dependence on Iqama Holder: Family members must be officially registered as dependents of the Iqama holder. This is typically proven through family Iqamas linked to the primary Iqama holder’s record.
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No Outstanding Traffic Violations: Any outstanding traffic violations (fines) registered under the family member’s name must be cleared before applying for the visa. Failure to do so can result in the application being rejected.
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No Pending Legal Cases: Similarly, any pending legal cases or investigations involving a family member can impede the visa application process.
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Passport Validity: The passport of each family member must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended return date. Many airlines have strict regulations regarding passport validity, so it’s crucial to ensure compliance.
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Sponsor Approval: The sponsor (employer or the Iqama holder themselves, if they are self-sponsored) must authorize the issuance of the Exit Re-Entry visa. This is usually done through the employer’s online account or through the Absher platform.
Required Documents for the Application Process
Gathering the necessary documents is a crucial first step in the Exit Re-Entry visa application. The following documents are generally required:
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Iqama Copy: A clear and valid copy of the Iqama for each family member applying for the visa.
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Passport Copy: A clear copy of the passport for each family member, including the bio page with the photograph and personal information.
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Application Form (If Applicable): Some employers or platforms may require a physical application form to be filled out. This form usually asks for details like Iqama number, passport details, travel dates, and reason for travel.
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Employer Letter (If Applicable): In some cases, particularly when applying through the employer, a letter from the employer stating their approval for the family member’s travel may be required. This letter should include the employee’s Iqama number, the family member’s names, and the intended duration of the Exit Re-Entry visa.
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Absher Account: Access to the sponsor’s Absher account is essential for initiating and completing the online application process.
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Photo (Sometimes Required): While less common now due to online submissions, a recent passport-sized photograph of each family member may be required in certain circumstances.
Methods for Issuing the Exit Re-Entry Visa
There are primarily two methods for issuing Exit Re-Entry visas for family members in Saudi Arabia:
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Through the Employer (Company’s Account):
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Access the Muqeem System: Many companies utilize the Muqeem portal, a platform provided by the Saudi government, to manage employee and dependent visa applications. The designated company representative will need to log in to the Muqeem system using their credentials.
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Select “Exit Re-Entry Visa”: Within the Muqeem system, locate the option for issuing Exit Re-Entry visas. This is usually found under the “Visa Services” or “Employee Services” section.
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Enter Iqama Number: Enter the Iqama number of the family member for whom the visa is being requested. The system will automatically retrieve the associated information.
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Specify Visa Type: Choose between “Single Exit Re-Entry” or “Multiple Exit Re-Entry” visa, based on the family’s travel plans.
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Enter Duration: For a Single Exit Re-Entry visa, specify the exact duration of the visa (e.g., 30 days, 60 days, 90 days). For a Multiple Exit Re-Entry visa, select the validity period (e.g., 3 months, 6 months, 12 months). Note that the maximum duration is often tied to the Iqama’s validity.
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Verify Information: Carefully review all the information displayed to ensure accuracy, including the Iqama number, passport details, and visa duration.
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Pay Fees: The system will calculate the applicable fees for the visa. Pay the fees online using the available payment methods (usually SADAD).
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Print the Visa: Once the payment is processed, the Exit Re-Entry visa will be generated. Print the visa and keep it with the family member’s passport.
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Through the Absher Platform (Individual Account):
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Log in to Absher: The Iqama holder (sponsor) needs to log in to their personal Absher account using their username and password.
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Navigate to “Dependents”: On the Absher dashboard, find the section related to “Dependents” or “Family Members.”
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Select Family Member: Choose the specific family member for whom you want to issue the Exit Re-Entry visa.
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Select “Visa Services”: Within the family member’s profile, locate the “Visa Services” or “Travel Services” option.
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Choose “Exit Re-Entry Visa”: Select the “Issue Exit Re-Entry Visa” option.
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Specify Visa Type and Duration: Similar to the Muqeem process, choose between “Single” or “Multiple” entry and specify the duration or validity period.
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Review and Confirm: Carefully review all the details displayed, including the passport information, Iqama details, and visa duration.
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Pay Fees: The system will calculate the required fees. Pay the fees online using SADAD or other available payment methods.
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Print the Visa: After successful payment, the Exit Re-Entry visa will be generated. Print the visa and keep it with the family member’s passport.
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Fees Associated with Exit Re-Entry Visas
The fees for Exit Re-Entry visas are subject to change, so it’s always advisable to check the latest official information on the Absher platform or through the Saudi Ministry of Interior website. As of the latest available information, the general fee structure is as follows:
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Single Exit Re-Entry Visa: Approximately SAR 200 for a two-month visa. An additional fee is charged for each additional month beyond the initial two months.
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Multiple Exit Re-Entry Visa: Approximately SAR 500 for a three-month visa.
These fees are typically paid electronically through the SADAD payment system. Ensure that you have sufficient funds in your account and that your online banking is activated for SADAD payments.
Important Considerations and Potential Issues
While the Exit Re-Entry visa process is generally straightforward, several potential issues can arise. Being aware of these issues and taking proactive steps can help prevent delays or complications.
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Iqama Expiry: The Iqama must be valid for the entire duration of the Exit Re-Entry visa. If the Iqama is due to expire soon, it’s crucial to renew it before applying for the visa. Applying for the Exit Re-Entry visa with an expiring Iqama can lead to rejection.
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Passport Validity: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended return date. Renew the passport well in advance if it’s nearing its expiration date.
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Traffic Violations: Unpaid traffic fines can prevent the issuance of the Exit Re-Entry visa. Check for any outstanding violations and pay them promptly through the Absher platform or designated payment channels.
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Employer Approval: Ensure that your employer approves the issuance of the Exit Re-Entry visa, especially if you are applying through the company’s account. Any internal company policies or procedures regarding travel should be followed.
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**Absher Account
