How UK Employers Can Sponsor Staff for Saudi Work Visas – Compliance, Timelines, and Key Responsibilities (2025)
November 27, 2025
How UK Residents in Saudi Arabia Can Bring Their Spouse and Children on a Family Residence Visa
For UK professionals living and working in Saudi Arabia, ensuring the well-being and togetherness of their families is a critical priority. One of the most common pathways for family reunification is the Saudi Family Residence Visa, known locally as the dependent iqama.
As regulatory frameworks evolve and documentation standards tighten in 2025, understanding the correct procedures, UK-specific requirements and compliance obligations has become more important than ever.
How UK Expats Can Use the Family Residence Visa to Reunite with Family
The Family Residence Visa enables expatriate employees in Saudi Arabia to sponsor their spouse and dependent children for long-term residence. Once in the Kingdom, dependents are issued their own iqama, linked to the primary sponsor.
This visa type is distinct from the Family Visit Visa, which is short-term in nature and not designed for schooling, residency, or ongoing access to government services.
For UK citizens working in Saudi Arabia, the Family Residence Visa is the appropriate route for establishing stable family life in the Kingdom.
Who UK Expats Can Sponsor Under Saudi Regulations
Based on current 2025 regulations, expatriates holding a valid Saudi residence permit may typically sponsor:
Legally married spouse
Sons below 18 years of age
Unmarried daughters, with case-by-case interpretation
Sponsorship for parents, siblings or extended family remains highly restricted and is generally not available under standard employment iqamas.
Eligibility Requirements for UK Nationals Sponsoring Family (2025)
Must hold a valid Saudi iqama.
Job title must be in an eligible profession for family sponsorship (commonly senior, technical, or specialist roles).
Salary expectations in 2025 are generally SAR 6,000–8,000+ for family sponsorship.
Authorities may request evidence of suitable family accommodation.
Iqama must have sufficient remaining validity to support the application.
Financial Considerations for UK Families
- Dependent levy: SAR 400 per month per dependent (SAR 4,800 annually).
- Family visa issuance fee (Istiqdam): approx. SAR 2,000.
- Dependent iqama fee: approx. SAR 650 per person annually.
- Dependents must be covered by Saudi-approved health insurance.
- UK-issued marriage and birth certificates require:
Solicitor/notary certification (if needed)
FCDO apostille
Saudi Embassy London legalisation
Frequently Asked Questions (UK Expats in Saudi Arabia)
Can I sponsor a non-British spouse?
Yes. Your nationality is not a limitation. Sponsorship depends on your iqama status, salary, and profession.
Do my UK documents require attestation?
Yes. UK-issued certificates must undergo full legalisation via the FCDO and the Saudi Embassy in London.
Do my dependents need a medical exam?
Some applicants—especially adults—may be required to undergo a Wafid/GAMCA medical.
Can my spouse work in Saudi Arabia?
A spouse can work only after securing their own work iqama under a sponsoring employer.
What happens if I change employers?
Your dependents’ iqamas are tied to your iqama. Changing employers requires a proper transfer of sponsorship.
How We Support UK Expats and Their Families
Saudi and Gulf Visa Services Limited provides end-to-end support for UK professionals seeking to reunite with their families in Saudi Arabia.
We manage the full lifecycle of the relocation process, ensuring every stage is coordinated seamlessly between the UK and Saudi Arabia. From initial assessment and sponsorship readiness to visa initiation, appointment coordination, family onboarding and local integration, we deliver a structured, compliant and efficient experience tailored to the needs of internationally mobile employees.
Our approach combines deep Saudi market expertise with global mobility best practices, giving families confidence, clarity and continuity throughout their move.
For premium assistance with Saudi Family Residence Visa support for UK residents, please contact info@saudiandgulfvisaservices.com
