If you have a newborn and are considering bringing them to Saudi Arabia, you’re in the right place! There are three main methods to do this, and I will guide you through each one.\
Method 1: On-Arrival Visa (Easiest & FREE!) 🎉
This is by far the simplest option if you qualify.
Who can use this:
• Baby is less than 1 year old
• Both parents have Iqama
• Mom has exit-reentry visa
Documents you need:
• Birth certificate of baby 📋
• Vaccination card 💉
• Copies of parents’ Iqamas
• Copies of parents’ passports 📘
• Mom’s valid exit-reentry visa
🔥 Pro tips:
• It’s completely FREE! 💰
• Book with Saudi Airlines or GCC airlines – they know the rules
• Tell check-in staff: “Baby is eligible for visa on arrival – both parents have Iqama”
• Arrive early at airport – some staff might not know the process 🕐
• Visa automatically links to dad’s Iqama (moms with work visa can request to link to theirs)
Method 2: Permanent Family Visa 📝
Want everything sorted before you travel? This is your option.
Documents needed:
• Baby’s original passport 📘
• Birth certificate (Arabic translated) 📄
• Vaccination cards 💉
• 2 photos with white background 📸
• Mom’s original passport
• Mom’s valid exit-reentry visa ✈️
• Copy of mom’s stamped visa
• Copies of parents’ Iqamas
• Dad’s passport copy
• Father’s employer address in KSA 🏢
• Absher paper showing Iqama expiry dates 📊
How it works:
• Submit documents to agent or VFS 📤
• They send to Saudi Embassy in your country 🏛️
• Wait 2-4 weeks for processing ⏰
• Visa fees may apply 💸
Method 3: Family Visit Visa 🎫
This has 3 steps:
Step 1: Apply for Family Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia – Check guide here
Step 2: Submit visa order for stamping via agent/VFS
Step 3: Once stamped, book flights ✈️
Which Method Should You Choose?
Go with Method 1 if:
• You meet all requirements ✅
• Want to save money (it’s free!) 💰
• Don’t mind dealing with airport procedures
Choose Method 2 if:
• You want everything confirmed before travel 🛡️
• Don’t mind paying fees 💸
• Have time for 2-4 weeks processing ⏰
Method 3
• When only one of the parents are on Iqama
📋 Document Checklist
Make sure you have:
• ✅ All documents original + copies
• ✅ Arabic translations where needed
• ✅ Valid passports (6+ months validity)
• ✅ At least 2 blank passport pages
• ✅ Recent passport photos
• ✅ Vaccination records up to date
⏰ Timeline Recommendations
For visa on arrival: Prepare docs 1-2 weeks before travel
For family visa: Start process 2-4 weeks before travel
For visit visa: Allow 2-4 weeks for complete process
⚠️ Important Note
This info is based on 2024-2025 regulations. Always verify current rules with official sources before traveling.
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