Looking to bring your family, friends, or relatives to Saudi Arabia? You’re in the right place!
I am Faisal Al-Harbi, and in this post, I will show you how to apply for a Personal Visit Visa to Saudi Arabia with a step-by-step guide. Confused about whether to use the MOFA portal, invitation letter, or manual applications via Istiqdam, this blog will provide all the necessary answers that you require. You will learn how to prepare documents, how to monitor the status of an application, and many other steps.
Here I will provide all the methods to apply for a Personal Visit are given below:
- MOFA online portal
- Via Istiqdam Office
Method 1: Apply Through the MOFA Online Portal
Step 1: Access the MOFA Official Website
- The first step is to visit the MOFA App.
- Click on the option “Individuals” on the home page.
Step 2: Select ‘Personal Visit Visa’ Option
- Navigate to the Visa Services section.
- Click on the request for a Personal Visit Visa.
Step 3: Fill out the Application Form
Now you’ll need to enter:
- Your full name.
- Nationality information.
- Passport details.
- Decide on the visa validity
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Copy of your Iqama.
- A copy of the passport of visitor.
- Document of relationship, in case requested by MOFA.
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Double-check your details carefully.
- Write down your Application Reference number to enable you to track your application later.
Step 6: Track Your Visa Status
- Go to the MOFA portal once again.
- You can use your saved reference number to check your status.
Read Also: Cancel Saudi Family Visit Visa in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Method 2: Via Istiqdam Office
Istiqdam Office is used by those who do not wish to take the time for the online submission and those with some problems.
Step 1: Collect Required Documents
Just pay a visit to the office, but then please remember to bring:
- Your Iqama copy.
- Visitor’s passport copy.
- Proof of relationship document.
- Completed visa request form.
Step 2: Visit the Istiqdam Office
- Locate your nearest Istiqdam Branch.
- File to be done in person.
Step 3: Pay Fees and Submit Application
- Pay your visa fees at the counter.
- Submit your visa application to be processed.
Step 4: Track Application Status
- Keep your receipt/reference slip safe.
- It normally takes 5 to 10 working days to have approval of the application.
- You may follow up by coming to the office or phoning the office.
FAQ
How much does a Saudi visit visa cost?
On average, it can cost between 300 SAR and 500 SAR before the insurance is excluded. Fees also differ according to the nationality and the kind of visa.
Can I bring my friend to Saudi Arabia on a visit visa?
Yes! Your friends can come in and visit you using the Personal Visit Visa, which is available on the MOFA portal.
How many days can I stay in Saudi Arabia on a visit visa?
Commonly, they offer up to 90 days of stay with the single-entry visa and up to 1 year with the multiple-entry visa, with the same 90-day maximum stay.
What is a single-entry visa for Saudi Arabia?
Single-entry visa can only be used to enter Saudi Arabia once with up to 90 days’ stay. Once you leave the country, you have to reapply to re-enter the country.
Read Also: Check SIMs on Your Iqama (2025) — With or Without Mobile
Final Words
After going through this process, I can assure you that it is not as hard as it seems, so long as you go through the steps accordingly.
To wrap up:
- MOFA Invitation Letter method is great if you don’t want to use Absher.
- Istiqdam Office remains a solid backup if online methods give you trouble.
Then get to work, apply now, your family will soon be flying to Saudi Arabia to reunite with you!
