Saudi Arabia offers expatriates the opportunity to bring their families with them through a family visa.
This visa enables dependents, such as spouses and children, to live in the Kingdom for the duration of the sponsor’s employment.
You may want to know what happens to the family visa if the sponsor loses their job? Well the visa status is closely tied to the sponsor’s employment and residency status, meaning that if sponsor loses their job, there can be significant implications for the family visa.
In this article, we will explore the consequences of happens to family visa if sponsor loses their job, the process that follows, and the steps expatriates can take to address the situation.
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Understanding the Family Visa in Saudi Arabia
A family visa in Saudi Arabia allows expatriates who are working in the Kingdom to bring their spouses, children, and sometimes other dependents to live with them.
The visa is typically tied to the sponsor’s (employer’s) Iqama (residency permit).
The primary conditions for a family visa include a valid Iqama, proof of employment, and sufficient income to support the dependents.
Family visa holders are usually not allowed to work unless they have a separate work visa, but they are generally entitled to access private education and healthcare.
However, the validity of the family visa depends directly on the sponsor’s status as a legal resident and employee of Saudi Arabia.
The Link Between Family Visa and the Sponsor’s Employment
The sponsor’s job and their Iqama are critical in maintaining a family visa.
The family visa is not a standalone permit but is attached to the sponsor’s legal status in the country.
If the sponsor loses their job for any reason, their Iqama is often canceled or rendered invalid, which, in turn, affects the validity of the family visa.
When a sponsor’s employment is terminated, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, their residency status is typically at risk.
This, in turn, can lead to the cancellation of the dependent’s family visa.
Depending on the circumstances, this could mean that family members may be required to leave the Kingdom and return to their home country until the sponsor secures new employment.
Immediate Consequences for the Family If the Sponsor Loses Their Job
If the sponsor loses their job, the family visa holders face several immediate consequences:
Cancellation of Family Iqama
The family’s residency permit (Iqama) is directly tied to the sponsor’s legal residency.
Once the sponsor’s Iqama is canceled or expires, the dependents’ Iqamas will also be canceled.
This may result in their inability to legally stay in Saudi Arabia.
Potential Overstay Penalties
Family visa holders who stay in the country after the sponsor’s job loss may face penalties for overstaying their visa.
The penalties can include fines and deportation.
Additionally, family members could be blacklisted from re-entering Saudi Arabia for a specific period.
Limited Rights to Stay
In the case of a job loss, family members may be granted a short grace period (usually around one to three months) to leave the country, but this is not always guaranteed.
During this period, the family members may not have the right to work or engage in any activities that require legal residency.
What Happens to The Family Visa After a Job Loss?
When the sponsor loses their job, several actions need to be taken to ensure the family’s legal stay in Saudi Arabia:
Sponsor’s Grace Period for Finding New Employment
The sponsor may be allowed a grace period to secure new employment, which may allow their Iqama to remain valid during this time.
The grace period, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days, depends on the specific circumstances and employer regulations.
If the sponsor successfully secures new employment within this period, they may be able to renew their Iqama and, by extension, the family visa.
Securing a New Employer and Sponsorship
If the sponsor is unable to find a new job within the grace period, they may have to exit the country to find work.
However, before departing, the sponsor can explore transferring their sponsorship to another employer.
If this is successful, they may retain the ability to sponsor their family for a new visa under the new employer’s sponsorship.
What Happens to the Family Members During This Time?
Family members will typically need to leave the country if the sponsor’s Iqama becomes invalid, especially if they cannot secure alternative visa status.
If the sponsor cannot secure new employment in time, the family may need to return to their home country, although some families may be able to apply for an exit visa to leave temporarily while waiting for the sponsor’s situation to be resolved.
What Can Family Members Do in Case of Job Loss?
While it is ultimately the responsibility of the sponsor to maintain legal residency, there are a few actions family members can take in the event of a job loss:
Request an Exit Visa
Family members can apply for an exit visa if the sponsor’s Iqama is canceled and the sponsor is still in the country.
This visa will allow them to exit Saudi Arabia and return home without facing overstay penalties.
Apply for a New Visa
If the family member is employed in Saudi Arabia or has other valid reasons to stay, they may apply for a separate work or residence visa.
However, this process can be complicated and may require finding a new employer willing to sponsor them.
Seek Legal Advice
If the family’s residency status becomes uncertain, it’s wise for the family to seek legal advice to understand their options for staying in the Kingdom or securing alternative status.
A legal professional can guide them through the process of applying for new visas or understanding their rights.
Preventive Measures for Sponsors and Families
While a job loss can be an unexpected event, there are several preventive measures that expatriates and their families can take to avoid complications:
Maintain Good Standing with the Employer
The most effective way to prevent job loss and the associated risks to the family visa is to maintain a good relationship with the employer and ensure that the employment contract is renewed regularly.
Be Prepared for a Job Change
Sponsors should prepare for the possibility of job changes or loss by understanding the visa transfer process and the rules around changing sponsorship.
This will allow for a smoother transition in case of unforeseen employment changes.
Understand the Family Visa Terms
Family members should be aware of the terms of the family visa, including the need for renewal and the sponsor’s responsibility to maintain employment status.
Conclusion
The family visa in Saudi Arabia is essential for expatriates wishing to bring their loved ones to the Kingdom.
However, it is directly linked to the sponsor’s employment and legal residency. If the sponsor loses their job, it can trigger the cancellation of the family visa, requiring family members to leave the country or make alternative arrangements.
To avoid complications, expatriates should ensure that they understand the family visa process, keep their job secure, and be prepared for potential job changes.
By taking proactive steps and seeking the right support, both sponsors and their families can navigate the complexities of the Saudi family visa system.