Assalamu Alaikum! If you’ve applied for a Saudi Family Visit Visa through MOFA and haven’t received approval even after several weeks, you’re not alone. Many applicants are facing similar delays. In this blog, we will divide the MOFA approval process into two main categories and share step-by-step guidance on what you should do next. This could be the solution you’ve been waiting for!
Category 1: Applicants Under Company Sponsorship (Iqama Holders)
If you’re working under a registered Saudi company and your visa application hasn’t been approved after 3–4 weeks, follow this method:
- Submit a new MOFA application, but this time fill it out in Arabic. Use the official MOFA site and refer to this tutorial if needed.
- Ensure the application is submitted on a working day.
- Ask your company to Chamber of Commerce attest the application the same day it was submitted.
Important: If your company cannot chamber it on the same day, do not let them chamber the previous application the next day. Instead, fill out a brand new application and get that one attested.
This strategy helps align your application date and chamber date, which increases your chances of getting same-day approval, InshaAllah. Repeat this process multiple times if needed—but always ensure same-day submission and attestation.
Category 2: Individuals Under Kafeel (Unified Chamber Applicants)
If you’re under a small business sponsor (Kafeel), including labor professions like drivers or helpers, the approval delays may be longer. Many applicants have:
- Repeated applications multiple times
- Followed the same-day chamber strategy
…yet their status remains “Under Process”.
In this situation, the best option is to wait patiently. MOFA is currently delaying many approvals under this category, and agents claiming guaranteed approvals are often not reliable.
Beware of Agents Charging High Fees
Many agents are charging 1,200–2,000 SAR promising instant approvals. However, there is no guarantee their method will work, especially during the current delays.
Instead of spending that money on unreliable services, consider alternatives like:
- Applying for an Umrah visa (which is usually faster)
- Temporarily inviting family through other visa types if available
If a Family Member Is Already in Saudi Arabia
If any of your relatives are already in Saudi Arabia, they can apply on your behalf. Just ensure the family relationship proof is submitted properly. Watch this video to know who is eligible.
Visa Approval Received? Don’t Book Flight Immediately!
Once you receive MOFA approval and process it through the Tasheer Center, don’t rush to book tickets. Here’s why:
- It can take 10–15 days to receive physical documents.
- Booking early may cause issues if delays occur.
Tip: Always book tickets for 15–20 days later, especially if you’re doing it in advance for cost-saving purposes.
Important: Return Ticket Requirements at the Airport
Many travelers on single-entry or Umrah visas are being asked to show a return ticket. While not everyone is asked, some families were stopped and questioned.
Here’s how to handle it:
- Arrange a dummy return ticket a day or two before travel.
- Don’t generate dummy tickets on the spot—it raises suspicion.
- If unsure, book a 100% confirmed ticket and cancel later after arrival.
To generate a verified dummy ticket, try platforms like Onward Ticket or FlyOnward.
Visa Options and What to Choose
There are multiple visa types available, but not all are suitable for long-term stays. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Visa Type | Entry | Extendable? |
|---|---|---|
| Family Visit Visa | Single Entry | Yes (Online extension possible) |
| Umrah Visa | Single Entry | No |
| Business Visa | Single Entry | No |
| Personal/Tourist Visa | Banned for some nationalities | N/A |
Recommendation: Always prefer the Family Visit Visa as it’s extendable and more flexible for family reunification.
Still Confused? Reach Out for Help
If you’re still unsure or have questions about your specific case, feel free to comment below or contact us via WhatsApp. We’ll do our best to assist you, InshaAllah.
Helpful Links:
Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more informative updates and travel guides related to Saudi Arabia.
JazakAllah Khair for reading! See you in the next blog. Allah Hafiz.
