Expatriate workers with a valid Iqama can sponsor dependants (spouse, children, and in some cases parents). This guide covers eligibility, salary guidance, documents, the Absher process, and dependant Iqama rights. See visa categories, exit re-entry, and visa cancellation. GRO and attestation support can help with documents and submissions.
Who Can Sponsor
Iqama holders (expatriate employees), investors with a valid investor Iqama, and Premium Residency holders can sponsor dependants. The sponsor must meet the salary and accommodation requirements and have a valid residence permit. Read this with our Saudi labor law guide, visa categories overview, and Muqeem portal guide.
Who Qualifies as a Dependant
Typically: spouse, children (age limits apply — see Children age rules), and in some cases parents or disabled adult dependants. Each dependant needs to meet the relationship and document requirements. Dependants do not have work rights on a family Iqama; they would need a separate work permit if they take up employment.
Salary Threshold Guidance
There is no official published minimum salary for dependant sponsorship. In practice, a salary of SAR 4,000–5,000 or higher, with proof of accommodation (lease or employer accommodation), improves approval. SAR 5,000+ with clear accommodation documentation is often cited as a practical safe range. Requirements can vary by nationality and by Jawazat office.
Document List for Sponsor and Dependant
Sponsor: Iqama, passport, proof of salary (salary certificate or bank statement), proof of accommodation (lease or letter), and sometimes employer NOC. Dependant: passport, photos, relationship proof (marriage certificate for spouse, birth certificate for children — often attested), and medical (if required). Check the current Absher/Muqeem checklist as requirements are updated.
8-Step Application Process via Absher
- Sponsor logs into Absher (individual account).
- Select "Dependent visa" or "Family visa" and choose the dependant type (spouse, child, etc.).
- Enter dependant details and upload required documents.
- Pay fees (visa and dependent Iqama fees).
- Submit; receive a reference number.
- Dependant may need to complete medical (in country or at embassy) if required.
- Visa is issued; dependant travels to Saudi Arabia and completes border/entry formalities.
- Dependent Iqama is issued (card collection or delivery as per process).
Dependant Iqama Rights and Limitations
Dependent Iqama allows residence in Saudi Arabia and access to services (e.g. healthcare if covered by sponsor's policy, schooling). It does not allow the holder to work; employment requires a separate work permit and employer sponsorship. Dependants must exit or change status before the sponsor's Iqama ends — see visa cancellation.
Sons Ageing Out at 18/21; Daughters
Sons typically age out of dependant status at 18 or 21 (rules may vary — confirm current Jawazat practice). They must then obtain their own visa (e.g. student, work) or leave. Daughters may remain as dependants until marriage. Disabled adult dependants may be sponsored under specific conditions.
Female Sponsors Sponsoring Husbands
Female Iqama holders can sponsor their husband as a dependant, subject to the same salary and accommodation requirements and document rules. The process is via Absher; check current eligibility and any additional criteria (e.g. profession, salary level) that may apply.
Cost Breakdown
Costs include: dependent visa fee, dependent Iqama fee, medical (if applicable), and attestation of documents (e.g. marriage/birth certificates). Amounts are set by Jawazat and updated periodically. Budget roughly SAR 2,000–5,000+ per dependant for first-year visa and Iqama depending on category and nationality.