Saudi Arabia Unveils New Concurrent Family Visas for Skilled Expats
Highly skilled professionals in Saudi Arabia can now process family visas alongside their work permits to support Vision 2030 talent retention.
Saudi Arabia has introduced a major policy shift aimed at attracting and retaining global talent by simplifying the residency process for highly skilled professionals and their families.
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, announced on October 6, 2026, that eligible expatriates can now process entry visas for their dependents concurrently with their own work visa applications.
Who is eligible for the new visa policy?
The new measure is specifically designed for professionals categorized as highly skilled. This includes experts working in critical sectors such as:
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- Information Technology (IT)
- Finance
Under this updated framework, workers can apply for visas for their spouses, sons under the age of 25, and unmarried daughters at the same time they are securing their employment permits. Once these family members arrive in the Kingdom, their residency permits will be finalized.
Supporting Vision 2030 goals
This reform is a strategic move to improve the quality of life for long-term residents and bolster the Kingdom's ability to retain international expertise. By reducing the administrative hurdles for families, the initiative aligns with the broader objectives of Vision 2030, which seeks to transition the labor market away from rigid sponsorship models toward a more modern, skilled migration system.
Important limitations and application details
While the policy offers significant benefits for immediate family members, there are specific restrictions to keep in mind:
- Extended Family: The current policy does not extend to parents or other extended relatives.
- Skill Requirement: Eligibility remains strictly limited to those classified as highly skilled professionals.
Applicants are advised to utilize the Absher platform or official government channels to verify specific documentation requirements and monitor for any further administrative clarifications as the demand for these services increases.