saudi residence visa for family life in saudi arabia

The Saudi Residence Visa (Iqama) for Families: A Comprehensive Guide to Family Life in Saudi Arabia

Securing a Saudi Residence Visa, commonly known as an Iqama, is the cornerstone of establishing family life in Saudi Arabia for expatriates. This document not only grants legal residency but also unlocks access to essential services, employment opportunities (for eligible family members), and the ability to sponsor other dependents. Understanding the intricacies of the Iqama process, eligibility criteria, required documentation, and associated regulations is crucial for a smooth transition and a fulfilling life in the Kingdom. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of obtaining and maintaining a family Iqama, addressing key aspects relevant to spouses and children of expatriate workers.

I. Sponsoring Dependents: The Foundation of Family Iqama

The ability to sponsor family members is primarily dependent on the Iqama holder’s profession and salary. Certain professions deemed low-skilled or requiring minimal qualifications may not be eligible for sponsorship. Generally, professionals in fields like engineering, medicine, education, management, and specialized technical roles are more likely to qualify. A minimum salary threshold also applies, varying based on nationality and profession. While specific figures are subject to change, it’s crucial to confirm the current requirements with the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) or the Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat).

The sponsor must be legally residing in Saudi Arabia with a valid Iqama and have a clean criminal record. They must also demonstrate the financial capacity to support their dependents. This is typically assessed through bank statements, salary slips, and a formal letter from their employer confirming their employment and salary details. The employer’s role is significant, as they often facilitate the Iqama application process and provide the necessary documentation.

II. Eligibility Criteria for Dependents

The following family members are typically eligible for sponsorship under a resident’s Iqama:

• Spouse: Legally married spouse (husband or wife). Polygamy is permitted under Saudi law for Muslim men, but sponsorship for multiple wives is subject to specific regulations and approvals.
• Sons: Unmarried sons under the age of 18. Sons above 18 may be sponsored if they are enrolled in full-time education and can provide proof of enrollment. This sponsorship typically ends when they reach the age of 25 or complete their education, whichever comes first.
• Daughters: Unmarried daughters, regardless of age, are generally eligible for sponsorship. However, once they marry, they are no longer eligible under their parent’s sponsorship and must obtain their own Iqama through their husband’s sponsorship or employment.
• Parents: Sponsoring parents is possible under certain circumstances, such as if the sponsor is the only caregiver and the parents are financially dependent. This process is often more complex and requires extensive documentation and approvals from the relevant authorities.

III. The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of obtaining a family Iqama typically involves several stages, which can be initiated either within Saudi Arabia or while the dependents are still in their home country.

A. Initial Steps (Before Arrival):

1. Visa Application for Dependents: The sponsor must apply for a dependent visa (family visit visa or residence visa) for their family members through the Saudi embassy or consulate in their home country. This requires submitting a copy of the sponsor’s Iqama, marriage certificate (for spouse), birth certificates (for children), passport copies of all dependents, and other supporting documents. The specific requirements may vary depending on the embassy or consulate.
2. Attestation of Documents: Crucially, all documents issued outside of Saudi Arabia, such as marriage certificates and birth certificates, must be attested by the relevant authorities in the country of origin and subsequently by the Saudi embassy or consulate. This authentication process verifies the authenticity of the documents.
3. Medical Examination: Dependents applying for a residence visa are required to undergo a medical examination at an approved medical center in their home country. This examination aims to detect any communicable diseases that could pose a public health risk. The medical report must be submitted as part of the visa application.

B. Upon Arrival in Saudi Arabia:

1. Entry Visa Extension (if applicable): If the dependents entered Saudi Arabia on a family visit visa, it may be necessary to extend the visa before applying for the Iqama. This extension can be obtained through the Jawazat.
2. Medical Examination in Saudi Arabia: Upon arrival, dependents are typically required to undergo another medical examination at a designated medical center in Saudi Arabia. This is a mandatory step for Iqama issuance and ensures that the initial medical report is still valid and accurate.
3. Fingerprinting and Biometrics: All dependents above a certain age (usually 15) are required to have their fingerprints and biometric data recorded at the Jawazat. This is a standard security procedure for all residents in Saudi Arabia.
4. Iqama Application Submission: The sponsor, through their employer or directly if permitted, must submit the Iqama application to the Jawazat. This requires filling out the application form, providing copies of all required documents (passport copies, visa copies, medical reports, marriage certificate, birth certificates, sponsor’s Iqama copy, employer letter, etc.), and paying the applicable fees. The application can often be submitted online through the Absher platform, but a physical visit to the Jawazat may still be required for certain steps.
5. Iqama Issuance: Once the application is approved, the Iqama will be issued to each dependent. The Iqama card contains the resident’s photograph, name, nationality, date of birth, profession (dependent), Iqama number, and expiry date. It is essential to carry the Iqama card at all times as it serves as proof of legal residency.

IV. Required Documentation: A Checklist for Success

Gathering the correct documentation is paramount for a successful Iqama application. The following is a comprehensive checklist of documents typically required:

• Sponsor’s Iqama Copy: A clear and valid copy of the sponsor’s Iqama.
• Sponsor’s Passport Copy: A clear copy of the sponsor’s passport, including the visa page showing entry into Saudi Arabia.
• Dependents’ Passports Copies: Clear copies of all dependents’ passports, including visa pages showing entry into Saudi Arabia.
• Marriage Certificate: An attested copy of the marriage certificate (for spouse sponsorship).
• Birth Certificates: Attested copies of birth certificates for all children being sponsored.
• Medical Examination Reports: Original medical examination reports from both the home country and Saudi Arabia.
• Employer Letter: A formal letter from the sponsor’s employer confirming their employment, salary, and willingness to sponsor their family members. The letter should be officially stamped and signed.
• Visa Copies: Copies of the entry visas for all dependents.
• Application Form: A completed Iqama application form, which can be obtained from the Jawazat or downloaded online.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of all dependents.
• Proof of Education (for sons above 18): If sponsoring sons above 18, provide proof of full-time enrollment in an accredited educational institution.
• Bank Statements: Bank statements demonstrating the sponsor’s financial capacity to support their dependents.
• Any Other Supporting Documents: The Jawazat may request additional documents on a case-by-case basis.

V. Iqama Renewal: Maintaining Legal Residency

The Iqama is not a permanent document and must be renewed periodically. The renewal process is typically straightforward and can be done online through the Absher platform. The sponsor is responsible for renewing the Iqama before its expiry date to avoid penalties, fines, or potential deportation.

A. Renewal Requirements:

• Valid Passport: The dependent’s passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the Iqama’s expiry date.
• Medical Insurance: Valid medical insurance coverage for all dependents is mandatory for Iqama renewal.
• Payment of Fees: The Iqama renewal fee must be paid through a bank or online payment system.
• Clean Criminal Record: The dependent must not have any outstanding legal issues or criminal records.

B. Renewal Process:

1. Login to Absher: The sponsor must log in to their Absher account.
2. Select “Iqama Renewal”: Navigate to the “Iqama Renewal” section.
3. Select Dependents: Choose the dependents whose Iqamas need to be renewed.
4. Verify Information: Review and verify the information displayed for each dependent.
5. Pay Fees: Pay the Iqama renewal fees online.
6. Confirm Renewal: Confirm the Iqama renewal request.
7. Print Iqama: After successful renewal, print the updated Iqama information.

VI. Transferring Sponsorship: Changing Employers

If the sponsor changes employers, the Iqama sponsorship must be transferred to the new employer. This process involves obtaining a letter of no objection (NOC) from the previous employer, submitting the necessary documents to the Jawazat, and completing the transfer procedure. The new employer must be eligible to sponsor dependents and meet the required salary threshold.

VII. Exit/Re-entry Visas: Traveling Outside Saudi Arabia

Dependents with an Iqama require an exit/re-entry visa to travel outside Saudi Arabia and return. These visas can be obtained through the Absher platform or through the sponsor’s employer. The visa specifies the duration of