Saudi Arabia will now let highly skilled expat workers get visas for their family at the same time as their own work visa. The Interior Ministry announced the change on 6 October 2026, working with the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Human Resources. Until now, most workers had to arrive first, get their iqama, and only then apply for their family. The new rule removes that wait for people who qualify.
What Changed
Before, the family visa came after the worker settled in. Now, for highly skilled workers, the family entry visas can be issued together with the work visa, so the family can travel with the worker or soon after. Residence permits (iqama) for the family are still done after they arrive in the Kingdom.
Who Qualifies
The rule is for expats classed as highly skilled. Saudi Arabia sorts work permits into three levels: highly skilled, skilled and basic. If you already work in Saudi or have an offer, ask your employer which level your job falls under. Your level is linked to your work permit in the Qiwa system.
Who Can Come With You
- Your husband or wife
- Sons under 25
- Unmarried daughters
Who Is Not Covered
- Parents and siblings
- Married daughters
- Sons aged 25 or over
Family members who come on these visas do not get the right to work. They would need their own work visa through an employer.
What Is Not Announced Yet
The ministry has not yet published the full criteria, a salary level, the start date or the list of jobs that count as highly skilled. Be careful with anyone who claims to know these details already or asks for money to “fast track” your family visa.
How To Apply Safely
- Talk to your employer’s HR first. The process runs through your employer and official government platforms.
- Family visit and family visas are handled on the official Saudi visa platform (visa.mofa.gov.sa). Do not pay agents for this.
- Got a job offer that also promises a family visa? Check it with our free Fake Job Checker before you pay anything.
Related: Saudi Nitaqat wage thresholds are not an expat minimum wage.
Sources: Saudi Interior Ministry announcement (6 Oct 2026) as reported by Gulf News, Arabian Business and Khaleej Times; KPMG flash alert 2026-257.