EK28

Big countdown on for our move.

Just a quick question. Does my husband have to wait until he gets his iqama before he can get a visit visa for me?

He is leaving in Feb and I was hoping to visit during the easter holidays but I guess it might take longer than 2 months to get an iqama. Any clue?

Thanks in advance!

scot47

The Iqama can be processed in a few days. He needs an iqama before you can visit. Note that Easter is NOT a holiday in KSA !!!!

EK28

Thanks. Yeah I guessed Muslims wouldn't celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. I'm a teacher so I get holidays off. Hopefully his Iqama won't take long. A few days would be ideal!

wwinit

The Saudi government has changed the process of Iqama applications to make it quicker than before. You can now have it within 7 - 10 days depending on the staff and amount of work. The only problem is the Arabic name of an expat is often misspelt and the card needs to be corrected. It therefore might take another week to get the amended one. On the whole, just wait for around one month to get a visit visa. You will certainly enjoy your holiday here at the beginning of April during the Easter vacation. Remember to buy Abaya for yourself and change it on the plane. Welcome to the kingdom of ladies in black!

scot47

I never had to wait more than a few days for the Iqama.

wwinit

Probably the visa/Iqama officers at KFUPM are very efficient or they know how to use 'watsa' through a proper channel at MOL like KSU's.

EK28

Hopefully it won't take too long then! Thanks for your replies. Also wondering do I need to apply for my iqama do I need to be in KSA or does it need to be applied for in home country (i.e UK).

scot47

I had experience with other employers too. I never waited more than a few days for an Iqama.

Watch out for those that take you into KSA on a Business Visa and lead you veleiev that you will get an Iqama. Business Visa can be a handicap in many ways !