Saudi Arabia Lets Highly Skilled Expats Bring Families While Their Work Visa Is Processed
Saudi Arabia now lets highly skilled foreign workers apply for family entry visas at the same time as their own work visa. Spouses, sons under 25 and unmarried daughters are eligible.
Saudi ArabiaIn brief
- Highly skilled expats can now apply for family entry visas at the same time as their Saudi work visa, instead of waiting until it is finished.
- Eligible family members are spouses, sons under 25 and unmarried daughters.
- Family residence permits are processed after the family arrives.
- The Ministry of Interior announced the change on 6 October 2026, with the Foreign Affairs and HRSD ministries.
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Organization | Saudi Ministry of Interior, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and HRSD |
| Official source | Gulf News – reporting the Saudi Ministry of Interior's announcement ✓ gulfnews.com |
Saudi Arabia has made it easier for highly skilled foreign workers to move with their families. The Ministry of Interior announced on 6 October 2026 that eligible workers can now start their family visa process while their own work visa is still being processed.
The change was introduced together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD).
What has changed
| Before | Now |
|---|---|
| Workers had to finish their own work visa before starting the family visa process | Family entry visas can be issued at the same time as the worker's employment visa |
After the family arrives, their residence permits are processed under the normal rules.
Who can come
| Family member | Eligible |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Yes |
| Sons | Under 25 |
| Daughters | Unmarried |
Who qualifies
The rule applies to highly skilled expatriate workers. The announcement did not publish a detailed definition of "highly skilled", a list of occupations, fees or processing times.
Saudi Arabia already checks the qualifications of skilled workers before they arrive, focusing on managers, professionals and technicians. Read: Saudi Professional Verification explained.
Why it matters
Moving alone first and waiting months for family visas has been one of the main hurdles for professionals considering Saudi jobs. The ministry says the change is meant to improve quality of life and simplify procedures for skilled expats.
What to do if you have a Saudi job offer
- Ask your employer whether your role counts as highly skilled under the new rule.
- Prepare family documents early, including attested marriage and birth certificates.
- Apply only through official Saudi visa channels and your employer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my family to Saudi Arabia while my work visa is being processed?
Yes, if you are a highly skilled expatriate. Family entry visas can now be issued at the same time as your employment visa, as long as all requirements are met.
Which family members can come under the new Saudi rule?
Spouses, sons under 25 and unmarried daughters.
Who counts as a highly skilled worker in Saudi Arabia?
The announcement did not publish a detailed definition. Check with your employer and the official Saudi visa platforms for your occupation.
Apply only through the official source.
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