Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to the world with its new tourist visa. International visitors from 66 eligible countries can apply for an eVisa and discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people with a family visit visa for KSA.
If you are planning to meet your family this vacation, then go ahead with a Saudi family visit eVisa. It is the quickest way to get your visa to Saudi Arabia.
Let us guess, you have a family living in Saudi, and you live abroad. And since the winter vacation is here, you wish to meet your family for sure. You may have completed all your packing already while making the list of the tourist spots you want to visit this time.
The purpose of a Saudi Arabia family visit visa is to allow people to visit their family members in Saudi Arabia. This visa is a short term permit that allows visitors to meet their family members, including parents, children, spouses, and many more.
You can also participate in tourism activities while in the country. You should also understand the application process of KSA briefly.
A Saudi Arabia visa is essential as it allows you to enter the country legally and move around freely for a set amount of time. You need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia for any reason, including tourism, family visits, business etc.
What is a Family Visit Visa for Saudi Arabia?
It is a short term visa that allows people to visit their family members in Saudi Arabia, including parents, children, spouses etc. you can issue this visa as a single entry visit visa which will be valid for 90 days. Or you can apply for a multiple entry visit visa that will be valid for 6 months or 1 year.
You can stay 30 days with a single entry visa and 90 days for each visit for a multiple entry visa.
Eligibility Criteria for a Family Visit Visa
You have to meet some requirements to be eligible for a family visit visa for KSA. you must be a first degree relative of the person you are visiting, like a child, parent, spouse etc.
If you are a child under 18 years who will be traveling alone or with a parent, then you have to submit a notarized letter signed by a parent or a legal guardian.
Required Documents
The documents that are needed while applying for online visa application ksa are as follows:
- Original passport that has the validity for at least 6 months
- You have to fill online application and make a visa payment
- A visa referral note with number and date of visa, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or either of its branches in Jeddah or Dammam
- Proof of relationship between applicant and inviting party.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Family Visit Visa
The process of applying for an online visa application KSA is different from other countries. The process is available online, but for Indians, the mode comes offline.
The Saudi embassy does not accept applications that are submitted directly. As a result, you have to contact a travel agency to do it for you.
Make sure that you check the eligibility criteria for the visa before applying. You can start to make the application as follows –
- Collect the necessary documents that are required in the application
- You can visit the official website of Saudi Arabia and download the application form
- Fill in the form either by typing or writing after printing. Include all the required documents in the application process
- Pay the visa fees to the travel agency via online. You cannot make direct payments to the embassy
- Attach the documents with the application form and send them to the Saudi Embassy through the travel agent.
Make sure that you fill in the correct details and submit the original documents. Wrong information or documents can lead to a visa rejection. A denied permit is considered as a black mark in your travel history.
When you receive your visit permit, keep in mind some key points to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Make a note of the visa expiry date. You will not be able to stay in the country after this period. It will be considered a criminal offence and you will be fined and deported if you stay.
You cannot engage in work activities while you are on a visit permit. You have to maintain the rules and regulations strictly while you are in the country. Also respect their culture and traditions.
The family visit permit is issued in about 4 to 5 working days. This may take longer to be approved depending on the factors like higher volume of applications, seasons, etc.
After submitting your visa application, you will receive it back through your travel agent within the stipulated processing time. Contact the agency or email the embassy directly to check your Saudi family visit visa status.
Tips for a Successful Application
Make sure all required documents are complete and accurate to ensure a successful family visit visa for KSA. Some key points to remember are as below:
- Collect Essential Documents
It includes passports with sufficient validity, marriage certificates, birth certificates for children, recent photographs, etc.
- Verify sponsor’s eligibility
Check if the sponsor in Saudi Arabia meets the minimum salary requirements to apply for family visas.
- Submit application early
Apply well ahead of your planned travel date to allow sufficient processing time.
- Accurate information
Make sure to provide correct and consistent information with supporting documents.
- Proper documentation
Make sure all documents are translated and certified properly if needed.
- Follow up regularly
Track the status of your application and respond to any requests promptly for additional information.
- Consider a visa agency
Utilize a reputable visa agency if needed. They will guide you through the process and handle the application on your behalf.
- Check for updates
Stay informed about any changes in visa requirements or procedures during your application time period.
To avoid incorrect personal details, you should review and edit before submitting finally. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.
If you face any payment issues, then try alternative payment methods and make the required payment. You should apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any last moment rush.
Provide all required supporting documents in proper format. Respond on time to any requests for additional information.
Apply for a Family Visit Visa to KSA Today!
We hope now you know the essential information regarding the family visit visa for KSA. Know the eligibility criteria before applying for online visa application KSA. Read the tips to ensure a successful application and start your journey smoothly.
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