Saudi Arabia has introduced a revised visa system allowing certain highly skilled foreign nationals to apply for entry permits for their families at the same time as they apply for their own visas.
The simplified process has been introduced by the Ministry of Interior in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
Previously, foreign workers generally had to enter Saudi Arabia, obtain an Iqama and complete several administrative procedures before they could sponsor their dependents.
Under the revised system, eligible professionals can submit applications for their family members alongside their initial employment and visa documents, removing several steps from the previous process.
Once they enter the Kingdom, their families can obtain permanent residence permits through a streamlined administrative process without having to complete separate procedures.
The policy forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts under Vision 2030 to attract and retain highly skilled professionals in fields including science, healthcare and engineering.
By reducing administrative hurdles for skilled foreign workers and their families, the Kingdom aims to make relocation easier and strengthen its appeal as a destination for international talent.
The move also comes as Saudi Arabia continues to expand major infrastructure and industrial projects, increasing demand for specialised expertise from around the world.
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