Saudi Arabia Fast-Tracks Family Visas for Professionals
Skilled expatriate professionals in Saudi Arabia will soon be able to reunite with their families much faster. Under a new policy set to take effect between early and mid-October 2026, eligible workers can now process entry visas for their families at the same time they apply for their work visas.
This major update is designed to reduce the time workers spend separated from their loved ones, making the Kingdom a more attractive destination for international talent, including the large population of skilled Indian expatriates.
No More Waiting for Iqama
Traditionally, many expatriates faced significant delays because they were required to wait for their residency permit, or Iqama, to be fully issued before they could initiate the family reunification process. The new regulations eliminate this requirement, allowing for concurrent visa processing.
By enabling family visas to be processed alongside work visas, the Saudi authorities aim to modernize labor policies and improve the overall quality of life for the professional workforce.
Who is Eligible for Concurrent Visas?
The new policy allows qualified skilled professionals to apply for entry visas for the following family members:
- Spouses
- Sons under the age of 25
- Unmarried daughters
Strict Eligibility Criteria
The initiative is a coordinated effort between the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD). However, the benefit is not available to all workers. Eligibility is strictly tied to specific thresholds, including:
- Minimum salary requirements
- Educational qualifications
- Specific professional classifications
Note: Exact details regarding specific salary thresholds and individual processing timelines are expected to be clarified by the authorities in due course.
Streamlined Exit for Domestic Workers
In addition to the changes for professionals, the authorities have introduced new measures regarding domestic workers. New, streamlined final exit procedures will be available for domestic workers who are currently serving their probation period, provided they meet the necessary stipulated conditions.
How to Apply
To ensure a smooth transition and compliance with the new rules, applicants are advised to verify their eligibility and submit their requests through official government digital channels. The primary platforms for these applications are:
- Absher
- Qiwa