Saudi Arabia has announced that it has introduced new rules that allow highly skilled foreign workers to bring their eligible family members to the Kingdom. As announced by the Ministry of Interior on Tuesday, October 6th, they can do so, even while their work visa procedures are being completed. Here’s all you need to know about this development relating to visas.
What Are The New Visa Rules?
It should be noted that this initiative has been introduced in cooperation with the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. The Gulf News, in its report, mentions that it aims to improve the quality of life for residents. Not to mention, it also aims to streamline procedures for highly skilled expatriates. So basically, under the new measure, eligible workers will be able to bring their spouses, sons under the age of 25, and unmarried daughters to Saudi Arabia.
Making Visa Process Easier For Eligible Family Members Of Highly Skilled Workers
The entry visa for eligible family members can be issued concurrently with the processing of high-skilled workers’ employment. However, the condition for this is that the application requirements and conditions should be met. This measure basically means that workers who qualify will no longer have to need to complete that work visa process before they can begin the procedures to bring the eligible family members to the Kingdom.
After the family members arrive in the Kingdom, the procedures can be completed for the issuance of their residence permit. This would be done in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations as revealed by the ministry.
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Recently, The Kingdom Also Launched An Online Service
This development comes weeks after the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia launched an online service. This service allows eligible foreign workers to apply for a transfer from a private-sector company to individuals for employment in domestic occupations. The applicants must hold a valid work permit and must not be employed in senior professions. This includes healthcare or specialist occupations, technical, educational, or even professions that are reserved exclusively for Saudi nationals. The occupation to which the worker is transferred should be one that is classified as domestic work.
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FAQs
How has Saudi Arabia eased visa rules for families of expats?
Saudi Arabia has introduced new rules, which allow families of eligible high-skilled foreign workers to come to the Kingdom while their work visa procedure is being completed.
Who can come to Saudi Arabia under this new measure?
Eligible workers will be able to bring their spouses, sons under the age of 25, and unmarried daughters to Saudi Arabia under this new measure.
