Introduction
If you have family members visiting you in Saudi Arabia on a family visit visa, you may be wondering what options are available to extend their stay. Family visit visas are typically valid for 90 days and can be extended up to 180 days. However, what happens after the initial 365 days have passed? In this article, we’ll explore the process of extending a family visit visa beyond the first year.
Eligibility
Before we dive into the process, it’s important to understand who is eligible for a visa extension. The Saudi Arabian General Directorate of Passports (GDP) states that family visit visas can be extended for up to 180 days at a time, provided that the following conditions are met:
- The visitor’s passport is valid for at least six months.
- The visitor has not violated any laws or regulations during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
- The sponsor (i.e. the person who originally applied for the visa) has a valid residency permit (iqama) and a stable financial situation.
- The sponsor has not previously extended the visitor’s visa for a total of 365 days.
Process
If your family member is eligible for a visa extension, the process is relatively straightforward. You will need to visit the GDP’s website and fill out the appropriate form (Form No. 107). The form will require you to provide the following information:
- Your family member’s passport information
- Your family member’s current visa information
- Your own information as the sponsor
- Your residency permit information
- Your financial information
Once you have completed the form, you will need to submit it to the GDP along with the necessary supporting documents. These may include:
- A copy of your family member’s passport
- A copy of your family member’s current visa
- A copy of your residency permit
- Proof of your financial situation (e.g. bank statements)
After submitting the form and supporting documents, you will need to pay a fee for the visa extension. The fee varies depending on the length of the extension and other factors, so it’s best to check the GDP’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Timeline
The GDP states that visa extensions can take up to 10 days to process. However, in some cases, the process may take longer. It’s best to apply for the extension well before your family member’s current visa expires to allow for any potential delays. Once the visa extension has been approved, your family member will receive a new visa with an updated expiration date.
Conclusion
Extending a family visit visa in Saudi Arabia can be a simple process as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and provide the necessary information and documents. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, it’s best to contact the GDP directly or consult with a legal professional.
