Getting a family visa for Saudi Arabia from Pakistan can feel difficult. But don’t worry! Alrehaf International is here to help you understand everything step by step. This guide will explain the complete process in simple English so anyone can understand.

What is a Saudi Family Visa?

A family visa is a special permission that lets your family members come to Saudi Arabia to live with you. If you are working in Saudi Arabia, you can bring your wife, children, and sometimes your parents to stay with you. This visa is also called a dependent visa or family reunion visa.

Many Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia want their families close to them. The Saudi government understands this need and has created a family visa system. This system allows families to stay together while one member works in the Kingdom.

Who Can Apply for Family Visa?

Not everyone can bring their family to Saudi Arabia. There are specific rules about who can apply. Let me explain who is eligible.

Saudi Iqama Holders

If you have a valid Saudi Iqama (residence permit), you can apply for a family visa. Your Iqama must be active and not expired. The Iqama shows that you are legally living and working in Saudi Arabia.

Minimum Salary Requirements

Your salary is very important for family visa approval. The Saudi government has set minimum salary requirements. For most professions, you need to earn at least 4000 Saudi Riyals per month. Some jobs may have different requirements. Your salary must be enough to support your family in Saudi Arabia.

Job Categories Allowed

Not all jobs qualify for family visa sponsorship. Professional jobs, managerial positions, and skilled worker positions usually qualify. Labor category workers may face restrictions. Check with your employer or Alrehaf International to confirm if your job category allows family visa sponsorship.

Which Family Members Can Come?

The Saudi family visa system allows specific family members to join you. Understanding who qualifies is important for your application.

Wife or Wives

If you are married, you can sponsor your wife to come to Saudi Arabia. Islamic law allows men to have up to four wives, and Saudi Arabia recognizes this. You can sponsor all your legal wives if you meet the salary requirements for each one.

Children

You can bring your children to Saudi Arabia on a family visa. Sons can come until they reach 18 years old. After 18, sons usually cannot stay on a family visa unless they are students. Daughters can stay on family visa until they get married, regardless of age. All children must be your biological children or legally adopted.

Parents

In some cases, you can sponsor your parents. However, this is more complicated than sponsoring a wife or children. There are special requirements for parent sponsorship. Usually, you need a higher salary and special approval. Alrehaf International can help you understand parent visa requirements.

Documents Required for Family Visa

Collecting the right documents is crucial for your family visa application. Missing documents can delay your application or cause rejection. Here is a complete list of documents you need.

Documents from Saudi Arabia

You need several documents from Saudi Arabia. These prove your legal status and ability to sponsor your family. You need a copy of your valid Iqama. The Iqama must have at least three months validity remaining. You need your Saudi employment contract showing your salary. A salary certificate from your employer is required. This certificate should be recent, preferably from the last month. You need a copy of your passport with valid pages.

Documents from Pakistan

Your family members in Pakistan need to prepare several documents. These documents prove their identity and relationship to you. Each family member needs a valid Pakistani passport with at least six months validity. Original and photocopies of NADRA identity cards are required. Marriage certificate is needed if you are sponsoring your wife. The Nikah Nama must be attested properly. Birth certificates for children are mandatory. These certificates must show you as the father.

Attested Documents

Many documents need proper attestation. This is a verification process that proves documents are genuine. Documents must be attested by the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. After that, they need attestation from the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad. Some documents may need translation into Arabic by certified translators. Alrehaf International provides document attestation services to make this process easier for you.

Medical Documents

Health requirements are important for Saudi family visas. All family members need to pass medical examinations. They must get medical tests from approved medical centers in Pakistan. Blood tests, chest X-rays, and general health examinations are required. Medical reports must be recent and from GAMCA approved centers. Children and adults all need medical clearance.

Step by Step Family Visa Process

Understanding each step of the visa process helps you prepare better. The process involves actions in both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Let me explain each step clearly.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before starting the application, verify that you meet all requirements. Check your salary level and job category. Confirm your Iqama has sufficient validity. Make sure you have worked in Saudi Arabia for the minimum required period. Usually, you need at least six months of employment. Alrehaf International can review your eligibility before you start the application.

Step 2: Get Employer Approval

Your Saudi employer must approve your family visa application. Talk to your company’s HR department or PRO. They will check if you meet company policies for family sponsorship. Some companies have specific rules about family visas. Your employer will need to provide support letters and salary certificates. Build a good relationship with your employer as their support is essential.

Step 3: Apply in Absher System

Saudi Arabia uses the Absher electronic system for most government services. You or your company PRO will apply for family visa through Absher. Log into the Absher platform using your Iqama number. Navigate to the dependent visa section. Fill in all required information about your family members. Upload scanned copies of required documents. Submit the application and pay the necessary fees. The system will give you an application number to track your request.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

After submission, your application goes through government review. The Saudi government checks all your information and documents. This process usually takes two to four weeks but can sometimes take longer. You can check your application status through Absher. Be patient during this waiting period. Do not make travel arrangements until you receive approval.

Step 5: Receive Visa Authorization

If approved, you will receive visa authorization through Absher. This authorization has a reference number. Print the visa authorization document. You will need to send this document to your family in Pakistan. This authorization allows your family to apply for visa stamping at the Saudi Embassy.

Step 6: Apply at Saudi Embassy Pakistan

Your family members must now visit the Saudi Embassy in Pakistan. The main Saudi Embassy is in Islamabad. There are also consulates in Karachi, Lahore, and Quetta. Make an appointment through the embassy website or visa centers. Bring all original documents and photocopies. Submit the visa authorization from Saudi Arabia. Pay the visa fees at the embassy or designated bank.

Step 7: Biometric and Medical Process

The Saudi Embassy will request biometric data from your family members. Fingerprints and photographs will be taken. Family members must also complete medical examinations at approved centers. GAMCA medical tests are mandatory for all family visa applicants. Keep all medical reports and payment receipts safe.

Step 8: Visa Stamping

After completing all requirements, the embassy will stamp visas in passports. Visa processing at the embassy usually takes one to two weeks. Sometimes it can take longer during busy periods. Once stamped, the visa is valid for a specific period, usually 90 days. Your family must travel to Saudi Arabia within this validity period.

Step 9: Travel to Saudi Arabia

Book flights to Saudi Arabia within the visa validity period. Make sure all family members carry their passports with valid visas. Carry copies of all important documents during travel. Upon arrival at Saudi airport, immigration officers will check documents. After immigration clearance, your family officially enters Saudi Arabia.

Step 10: Complete Iqama Process

After arrival, you must apply for Iqamas for your family members. This must be done within 90 days of arrival. Visit the Jawazat office with your family. Bring all original documents and passport copies. Pay the Iqama fees for each family member. Biometric data will be collected again. The Iqama cards will be issued within a few days or weeks.

Important Things to Remember

Several important points can affect your family visa success. Understanding these helps avoid problems during the application.

Salary Requirements are Strict

The minimum salary requirement is not negotiable. If your salary is below the required amount, your application will be rejected. Some people try to show false salary certificates. This is illegal and can result in serious consequences. Always provide genuine salary information. If your salary is currently low, wait until you get a salary increase before applying.

Family Visa Fees and Costs

Understanding the total cost helps you budget for the family visa process. There are multiple fees involved at different stages.

Saudi Arabia Fees

In Saudi Arabia, you pay fees for visa application through the Absher system. The visa application fee is around 2000 Saudi Riyals but can vary. After arrival, Iqama fees for each family member are approximately 650 Riyals annually. Medical insurance is mandatory and costs vary based on coverage. Some companies cover these fees for employees, but many workers pay themselves.

Pakistan Fees

In Pakistan, your family pays visa stamping fees at the Saudi Embassy. The embassy fee varies but is usually around 3000 to 5000 Pakistani Rupees per person. GAMCA medical tests cost approximately 8000 to 12000 Rupees per person. Document attestation from Ministry of Foreign Affairs costs around 1000 to 2000 Rupees per document. Translation fees for documents into Arabic can be 500 to 1000 Rupees per page.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget other expenses like passport renewal if needed, photographs for applications, travel costs to embassy or consulate, and courier fees for sending documents. Budget extra money for unexpected expenses. Alrehaf International offers package deals that can reduce your total costs.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Many family visa applications get rejected. Understanding common rejection reasons helps you avoid mistakes.

Incomplete Documentation

Missing documents are the most common rejection reason. Always double-check you have all required papers. Make photocopies of everything. Use a checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten. Alrehaf International provides comprehensive checklists to clients.

Insufficient Salary

If your salary doesn’t meet minimum requirements, rejection is certain. Don’t apply if you’re below the salary threshold. Wait until your salary increases. Trying to submit false salary certificates leads to serious legal problems and permanent bans.

Medical Test Failures

Family members must be medically fit. Certain diseases result in automatic visa rejection. Infectious diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, or hepatitis usually cause rejection. Ensure your family members are healthy before starting the process. Get preliminary health checkups in Pakistan before applying.

Invalid or Expired Documents

Documents must be current and valid. Expired passports, old attestations, or outdated medical reports cause rejections. Check validity dates on all documents. Renew any document that is close to expiration. Embassy officials are very strict about document validity.

Previous Visa Violations

If you or your family members previously violated Saudi visa rules, new applications may be rejected. Overstaying previous visas, working on visit visas, or other violations create problems. Be honest about previous travel history. Sometimes violations can be cleared with proper procedures.

How Alrehaf International Helps You

Getting a family visa can be confusing and stressful. Alrehaf International makes this process easy and smooth for Pakistani families.

Complete Documentation Support

We help you prepare all required documents. Our team reviews your papers to ensure everything is correct. We identify missing documents before submission. We guide you on proper attestation procedures. We have relationships with attestation offices to expedite your documents. We ensure your documents meet Saudi Embassy requirements.

Application Processing Assistance

Our experts help with Absher system applications. We guide you through each screen and form field. We ensure all information is entered correctly. We help track your application status. We communicate with Saudi authorities on your behalf when needed. Our experience means fewer mistakes and faster processing.

Embassy Coordination

Alrehaf International coordinates with the Saudi Embassy in Pakistan. We help your family schedule embassy appointments. We prepare your family for embassy interviews. We ensure all embassy requirements are met. We follow up on application status with embassy officials. Our established relationships help smooth the process.

Medical Test Arrangement

We guide your family to approved GAMCA medical centers. We help schedule medical appointments. We explain what tests are required. We review medical reports for completeness. We advise if any medical issues might cause problems. We suggest solutions for minor health issues that can be resolved.

Translation Services

We provide certified Arabic translation for all required documents. Our translators are approved by Saudi authorities. We ensure translations are accurate and acceptable. We handle attestation of translated documents. This saves you time and ensures quality translations.

End to End Support

From initial consultation to family arrival in Saudi Arabia, we support you. We answer all your questions throughout the process. We provide updates at each stage. We solve problems that arise during processing. We offer post-arrival guidance for Iqama processing. Our goal is your complete satisfaction and family reunion.

Special Cases and Situations

Some family visa situations are more complex than standard applications. Understanding these special cases is important.

Second Wife Sponsorship

If you want to sponsor a second, third, or fourth wife, special rules apply. You need higher salary requirements for multiple wives. You must prove your first marriage is still valid. All marriages must be legal under Islamic and Saudi law. Documentation for each wife must be complete and separate. Alrehaf International has experience handling multiple wife sponsorships.

Disabled Family Members

Sponsoring family members with disabilities requires extra documentation. Medical reports must detail the disability clearly. Some disabilities may not disqualify family members from visas. Severe contagious conditions usually result in rejection. Mental disabilities require special evaluations. Physical disabilities are generally acceptable. Consult with Alrehaf International for specific disability cases.

Divorced and Remarried Situations

If you are divorced and remarried, documentation becomes complex. You must provide divorce papers from previous marriages. New marriage certificates must be properly attested. Children from previous marriages have different documentation needs. Custody documents may be required for children. Legal proof of relationship is essential. We help navigate these complicated situations.

Adopted Children

Saudi Arabia allows sponsorship of adopted children in some cases. Adoption must be legal according to Pakistani and Islamic law. Court documents proving adoption are mandatory. Biological parent consent papers may be needed. Age limits for adopted children are strictly enforced. This is a complex area requiring expert guidance from Alrehaf International.

Timeline for Family Visa Process

Understanding realistic timelines helps you plan better. The complete process takes several weeks to months.

Processing in Saudi Arabia

Application submission through Absher takes one day if you have all documents ready. Government review and approval usually takes two to four weeks. During Hajj season or Ramadan, processing may be slower. Some applications are approved faster, within one week. Complex cases can take up to eight weeks for approval. After approval, authorization letter is available immediately in Absher.

Processing in Pakistan

Embassy appointment scheduling can take one to two weeks depending on embassy workload. Medical tests at GAMCA centers take one day but results take three to five days. Document attestation from Foreign Ministry takes three to seven days. Embassy visa stamping after submission takes one to two weeks normally. During peak seasons, embassy processing can extend to three to four weeks.

Total Timeline

From starting your application to family arrival, expect minimum two to three months. Average timeline is three to four months for smooth cases. Complex cases or those with issues can take four to six months or longer. Plan accordingly and don’t expect instant results. Alrehaf International works to minimize delays and expedite your case where possible.

Life After Family Arrival

Your responsibilities continue after your family arrives in Saudi Arabia. Understanding post-arrival requirements is important.

Iqama Processing

You must complete Iqama processing within 90 days of family arrival. Visit Jawazat office with all family members. Bring passports, visa copies, and your own Iqama. Submit biometric data for each family member. Pay annual Iqama fees for each person. Collect Iqama cards when ready. Keep Iqamas valid by renewing before expiration.

Health Insurance

Saudi law requires health insurance for all residents. Your employer may provide insurance for you and your family. If not, you must purchase private health insurance. Insurance must meet minimum coverage requirements. Keep insurance active to avoid fines or legal problems. Register family members with insurance provider properly.

School Enrollment for Children

If your children are school age, enroll them in schools quickly. International schools in Saudi Arabia require enrollment documents. School fees can be expensive, so budget accordingly. Some companies provide education allowances for children. Government schools are available but teach in Arabic. Plan your children’s education before bringing them to Saudi Arabia.

Housing Arrangements

Ensure you have appropriate housing for your family before they arrive. Saudi law requires families to live in proper accommodations. Your housing must have enough space for your family size. Some employers provide family housing allowances. If you rent privately, make sure the lease agreement is proper. Register your family’s residence address with authorities.

Banking and Financial Setup

Open bank accounts for your family members if needed. Register family members as dependents on your accounts. Set up monthly budgets for family expenses. Understand that living costs in Saudi Arabia can be high. Plan your finances carefully to support your family comfortably.

Tips for Successful Family Visa Application

Following these tips increases your chances of approval and smooth processing.

Start Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to apply. Start preparing documents several months in advance. Give yourself plenty of time for each step. Early preparation reduces stress and allows time to fix problems.

Be Honest and Accurate

Always provide truthful information in all applications. Don’t try to hide previous visa issues or health problems. Honesty is appreciated and lies are discovered eventually. False information leads to permanent bans and legal trouble.

Keep All Documents Safe

Make multiple copies of all documents. Keep original documents in safe places. Carry copies for submissions and keep originals at home. Losing important documents causes major delays. Consider scanning documents and keeping digital copies.

Follow Instructions Carefully

Read all embassy instructions thoroughly. Follow Saudi government guidelines exactly. Don’t assume anything or take shortcuts. Each requirement exists for a reason. Missing one requirement can derail your entire application.

Maintain Good Communication

Stay in touch with your employer’s HR department throughout the process. Keep your family in Pakistan informed about each step. Respond quickly to any requests from authorities or Alrehaf International. Good communication prevents misunderstandings and delays.

Use Professional Services

Family visa processes are complex and confusing. Professional help from Alrehaf International saves time and reduces errors. Our experience means we know how to handle problems. The cost of professional services is worth the peace of mind and higher success rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions we receive about Saudi family visas.

Can I apply if I just started working?

Most employers require you to complete at least six months of employment before sponsoring family. This probation period ensures job stability. Some professional positions may allow earlier applications. Check your employment contract and company policies.

What if my salary is below the requirement?

You cannot successfully apply with insufficient salary. Wait until you receive a salary increase. Some people get salary increases after working for one or two years. Don’t attempt to submit false salary information.

How long is the family visa valid?

The visa stamped in Pakistan is usually valid for 90 days for entry. Your family must enter Saudi Arabia within this period. After arrival and Iqama issuance, they can stay as long as your sponsorship continues.

Can my wife work in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, your wife can work if she obtains proper work authorization. She needs to find an employer willing to sponsor her work visa. Working without authorization is illegal and causes serious problems. Many wives do work in Saudi Arabia legally.

What happens if I lose my job?

If you lose your job, your sponsorship of family members becomes complicated. You usually have grace period to find new employment. Your family’s Iqamas are tied to your employment status. Finding new employment quickly is essential. Alrehaf International can advise on options if you face job loss.

Can I sponsor my parents and siblings?

Parents can be sponsored under special conditions with higher salary requirements. Siblings generally cannot be sponsored on family visas. Each case is evaluated individually by Saudi authorities.

What if my family’s visa is rejected?

If rejected, find out the specific reason for rejection. Address the problem before reapplying. You can usually reapply after fixing issues. Some rejections come with waiting periods before reapplication. Alrehaf International helps you understand rejections and plan next steps.

Recent Changes in Saudi Visa Policies

Saudi Arabia regularly updates its visa policies and procedures. Staying informed about changes is important for successful applications.

Digital Transformation

Saudi government is moving all services to digital platforms. Absher and other online systems are now mandatory for most processes. Paper applications are being phased out completely. This makes the process faster but requires computer literacy. Alrehaf International helps clients who are not comfortable with technology.

Fee Structure Updates

Visa and Iqama fees change periodically. Always check current fee schedules before budgeting. The government announces fee changes through official channels. Alrehaf International keeps clients informed about fee updates and changes.

Medical Requirements Evolution

Medical testing requirements are updated based on health concerns. COVID-19 added new vaccination and testing requirements. Always check current medical requirements before testing. Alrehaf International provides up-to-date information on medical requirements.

Why Choose Alrehaf International

Thousands of Pakistani families have successfully reunited in Saudi Arabia with our help. Our track record speaks for itself.

Experience and Expertise

We have many years of experience in Saudi visa processing. Our team understands Saudi regulations thoroughly. We have helped thousands of families successfully. Our expertise means we anticipate problems before they occur. We know how to navigate complex bureaucratic systems.

Personalized Service

Every family situation is unique and we recognize this. We don’t use one-size-fits-all approaches. We listen to your specific circumstances and concerns. We create customized solutions for your family’s needs. You are not just a number to us.

Transparent Pricing

We believe in honest, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. We explain all costs before you commit to our services. Our packages are competitive and fair. We offer payment plans for families who need them. You know exactly what you’re paying for.

Success Rate

Our success rate for family visa applications is very high. We carefully evaluate cases before accepting them. We don’t take cases we don’t believe will succeed. This protects you from wasting money on impossible applications. Our reputation is built on successful family reunions.

After Service Support

Our relationship doesn’t end when visas are issued. We continue supporting you after your family arrives. We help with Iqama processing and other post-arrival needs. We remain available for questions and guidance. Your long-term success and happiness matters to us.

Contact Alrehaf International Today

Don’t navigate the complex family visa process alone. Let Alrehaf International guide you every step of the way. We make family reunion possible and stress-free.

Our offices are ready to serve you in Pakistan. Contact us for initial consultation to discuss your case. We offer consultation in person, by phone, or online. Our team speaks Urdu, English, and Arabic. We understand both Pakistani and Saudi cultures and systems.

Bring your family to Saudi Arabia with confidence. Trust Alrehaf International for professional, reliable family visa services. Your family reunion is our mission. We work tirelessly to bring families together. Start your family visa journey with us today.

Remember that family is precious and being together is important. Saudi Arabia offers good opportunities for families to live comfortably. The visa process may seem difficult, but with proper guidance it becomes manageable. Thousands of Pakistani families are already living happily in Saudi Arabia. Your family can join them soon.

Alrehaf International stands ready to help you achieve your dream of family reunion. We handle the paperwork, the complications, and the stress. You focus on preparing for your family’s arrival and new life together. Contact us today and take the first step toward bringing your loved ones to Saudi Arabia. Together, we will make it happen.