Steps to convert family visit visa to iqama in KSA

Introduction:

Beginning the process of converting a family visit visa to an Iqama in Saudi Arabia is an important step for expatriates looking to provide their children with a stable, long-term residence in the Kingdom. This guide will explain the steps needed to ensure a smooth transition from a dependent visit visa to a KSA national ID card. Follow these instructions carefully to make the process easy and straightforward. Let’s explore how to convert a family visit visa to an Iqama successfully!

Family Visit Visa to Iqama in Saudi Arabia:

There have been some important updates regarding the conversion of family visit visas to Iqama in Saudi Arabia. As of March 22, 2022, Jawazat (Saudi Passport Authorities) confirmed that family visit visas cannot currently be converted into residency permits (Iqama). This clarification came after rumors circulated on social media suggesting that dependent visit visas could be changed. Jawazat emphasized that family visit visas are strictly for visiting purposes, and working while on a visit visa is prohibited. Violating this rule could lead to legal consequences. It’s crucial to stay informed through official channels to know about any future changes regarding family visit visa conversions.

However, there was a positive development on August 27, 2022, for families with children under 18. Jawazat announced that parents who are legal residents of Saudi Arabia can now convert their child’s visit visa to Iqama, provided the rules are followed. One key requirement is that the family visit visa should not be extended beyond 180 days.

It’s important to remember that families must leave Saudi Arabia before the expiration of their visit visa to avoid penalties. Additionally, while Jawazat handles residency-related matters, family visit visas are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Keeping an eye on official updates will help ensure that any changes to family visa regulations are followed properly and legally.

Requirements for Converting a Family Visit Visa to Iqama:

To begin the process of converting a family visit visa to Iqama, both parents must already hold valid Iqamas, and the children must be under 18 years of age. It’s important to note that this rule only applies to children; it does not extend to other relatives, such as parents or grandparents. Additionally, visit visas cannot be converted into work visas under any circumstances. The conversion is solely for dependent children, ensuring they can reside in Saudi Arabia with their parents.

Step by Step Guide to Converting a Family Visit Visa to Iqama:

7 Easy Steps to Convert Family visit Vis to Iqama:

Step 1: Book an Appointment with Jawazat

The first step in converting a dependent visit visa to Iqama is to schedule an appointment with Jawazat through the “Resident Services” section. This appointment is crucial as it allows you to visit the passport office and officially begin the visa conversion process.

Step 2: Visit the Jawazat Office

Ensure you have all the necessary documents for converting the family visit visa. These include your child’s birth certificate, certified by both the Saudi Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in KSA, your child’s vaccination records, their passport, passport-sized photos, copies of the parents’ Iqamas, copies of the parents’ passports, and valid health insurance for your child. Bring these documents with you to the Jawazat office for a smooth process.

Step 3: Submit the Required Documents

Visit the designated Jawazat office in your city that handles family matters. At the special desk for family cases, submit all the necessary documents. The officer will review your child’s paperwork and initiate the process to remove the family visit visa from your child’s passport, paving the way for the Iqama application.

Step 4: Follow-Up Visit to Jawazat

Approximately a week after submitting your documents, return to the Jawazat office to check on the status of your request to convert your child’s visit visa to Iqama. During this visit, you may be required to pay an additional fee to complete the process.

Step 5: Pay the Dependent Fee

If the officer at the Jawazat office approves your request, you will need to pay the dependent fee for each child. This fee is applicable for the duration until your Iqama card expires, ensuring that your child’s residency status is officially established.

Step 6: Convert the Family Visit Visa

Return to the special desk for family cases at the Jawazat office. Present the payment receipt to the officer, and they will process it the conversion of the family visit visa to an Iqama or a permanent family visa in Saudi Arabia. You will receive all the necessary documents confirming the change at this stage.

Step 7: Print the Iqama

Once the Jawazat office approves the conversion, take the documents they provide to the designated printing office for Iqamas. The staff will promptly print the family Iqama, confirming that the family visit visa has been successfully converted into a permanent family visa.

Important Notes:

Stay updated on any new information or changes to family visa policies by regularly checking official sources.
Adhering to the rules regarding family visas is crucial to ensure a smooth transition between different types of visas.
Be sure to leave the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia before your family visa expires, and ensure that the visa is valid for your exit from the country.

Final Thoughts:

Converting a family visit visa to Iqama in Saudi Arabia is a significant step toward providing children with a stable and long-term home. By following this comprehensive guide, which includes valuable insights from official sources, you can navigate the visa conversion process smoothly. It’s essential to stay informed about the latest updates from reliable sources and seek personalized advice for a successful experience.

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Frequent Asked Question:

1. Can I convert a family visit visa to Iqama for adults?
No, the process of converting a family visit visa to Iqama only applies to children under 18 years of age. Other family members, such as parents or grandparents, cannot be included in this conversion.

2. What documents do I need to bring to Jawazat for the conversion process?
You will need to bring your child’s birth certificate (certified by the Saudi Embassy and MOFA), vaccination records, their passport, passport-sized photos, copies of both parents’ Iqamas and passports, and health insurance documentation for your child.

3. How long does it take to process the conversion from a family visit visa to Iqama?
The initial processing typically takes about a week after your documents are submitted. However, the total time may vary depending on Jawazat’s workload and specific circumstances.

4. What should I do if my family visit visa is about to expire?
You must leave Saudi Arabia before the expiration of your family visit visa. If you plan to convert the visa to an Iqama, ensure all necessary steps are completed well in advance of the expiration date to avoid any legal issues.