Relocating to Saudi Arabia with your family involves more than securing a job as it requires navigating a structured immigration process to ensure your loved ones can join you legally and comfortably.
The Saudi Family Resident Permit, also known as the Iqama for Dependents, allows expatriates working in the Kingdom to sponsor their immediate family members for long-term stay.
The Saudi Family Resident Permit enables eligible foreign workers in Saudi Arabia to bring their spouse, children, or dependents to live with them. This permit is tied to the primary sponsor’s (employee’s) work visa and must be applied for through official government channels.
It grants long-term residency in the Kingdom, typically renewable on an annual basis, and allows dependents to access local healthcare, education, and legal residency rights. Dependents are not permitted to work under this permit.
The following dependents are eligible under a family resident permit:
Legally married spouse
Children under a specific age (typically under 18 for sons; daughters may stay longer if unmarried)
Dependents who meet Saudi residency and relationship criteria
We assist applicants in reviewing eligibility based on their profession, Iqama category, and employer guidelines.
Initial MOFA approval: 3–5 working days
Visa stamping in the UK: 7–10 working days (on average)
Iqama issuance in Saudi Arabia: Upon arrival and completion of formalities
The documents generally required include:
Validity not less than 6 months
At least 2 consecutive blank pages
The passport should not have any restrictions/conditions that prevents him/her from traveling.
2inch x 2inch (51 mm x 51 mm
Not older than 3 months
White background with frontal view
Copy of UK E Visa photo page for non-UK citizens
Legalised marriage certificate (for spouse) and birth certificates (for children)
Medical test reports (as per embassy requirements)
Yes, children on a resident permit are eligible to enroll in schools, but additional documents may be required for admission.
No, dependents on a family resident permit are not allowed to work unless they transfer to an individual work visa.
Yes, typically sons must be under 18 to qualify as dependents. Older sons may need to apply for a separate visa.
If the sponsor’s Iqama expires, dependent permits become invalid. Renewals must be completed on time to maintain family residency status.
Yes, vaccination records may be required during the medical exam, especially for children.