- Health Sector Workers (doctors, nurses) are exempt
- Education Sector Workers (teachers, university professors) are exempt
- Agricultural Sector Workers are exempt
- Other categories according to ministerial decisions
If you are in an exempt category, make sure your profession code in your residency indicates this.
The Importance of Health Insurance for Dependents
One of the mandatory conditions for registering dependents is having comprehensive health insurance that covers each dependent. Without health insurance, the registration application will not be approved.
The cost of health insurance for dependents varies based on:
- Age of the dependent
- Type of coverage required
- Insurance company
- Region
Difference Between Registering Dependents for Private Sector vs. Government Sector Employees
Private Sector Employee: Bears the dependent fees (unless exempt). Salary must be 4,000 Riyals or more.
Government Sector Employee: Exempt from dependent fees. Being a government employee is sufficient to register family members without monthly fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
### ❓ What is the minimum salary to register dependents?
The minimum is 4,000 SAR per month, but some passports require 5,000 SAR, especially if the number of dependents is large.
### ❓ Can sons over 25 years old be registered?
Male sons over 25 years old are not considered dependents unless they are regular students at an educational institution (annual proof of regular study is required). Daughters remain dependents until marriage.
### ❓ Can parents be registered?
Yes, but under strict conditions: the resident must have sufficient financial capacity, suitable housing, and health insurance for the parents. Approval is not guaranteed and requires case-by-case review.
### ❓ How long does the registration process take?
Via Absher, it usually takes 24-48 hours. If manual review is needed, it may take a week or more.
### ❓ Can dependents be registered if my residency has expired?
No. Residency must be valid. Renew your residency first before submitting a dependent application.
### ❓ What is the difference between a “dependent” and a “companion”?
A dependent is issued a residency permit (dependent residency), while a companion enters on a companion visa and stays for a limited period. A dependent has full residency rights, such as opening a bank account and obtaining a driver’s license.
### ❓ Can dependents work in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, but only after updating their profession if they have suitable qualifications, or by obtaining an independent work permit. Male dependents can transfer sponsorship to a company after completing the transfer procedures.
### ❓ What are the annual health insurance fees for dependents?
Fees vary by insurance company but generally range between 1,000 – 3,000 SAR annually per individual, depending on age and coverage type.
Summary
Registering dependents in Saudi Arabia has become much easier with the Absher platform. The key is meeting the requirements: suitable salary, housing, health insurance, and attested documents. If you are in the government sector or in an exempt profession, you will not pay the financial compensation. Tip: Apply for registration immediately after your residency is stable to avoid violation fines if you delay.
—
Article from toly.today — Your comprehensive guide to Saudi services
- Log in to your account on Absher Individuals
- From the main menu, select “Passport Services”
- Choose “Add Dependent” or “Register Dependents”
- Enter dependent information:
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Relationship
- Upload the required documents (passport, birth certificate, marriage contract)
- Pay the required fees (if any)
- Wait for approval — usually within 24-48 hours
Sometimes, the application requires manual review by Passports. In this case, you must book an appointment at a Passport office via Absher and submit the original documents.
Dependent Fees (Financial Consideration)
Since July 2020, the Dependent Fee has been applied, which imposes monthly fees for each dependent:
| Category | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|
| First Dependent | 400 Riyals |
| Second Dependent | 400 Riyals |
| Each Additional Dependent | 400 Riyals |
However, there are important exemptions:
- Health Sector Workers (doctors, nurses) are exempt
- Education Sector Workers (teachers, university professors) are exempt
- Agricultural Sector Workers are exempt
- Other categories according to ministerial decisions
If you are in an exempt category, make sure your profession code in your residency indicates this.
The Importance of Health Insurance for Dependents
One of the mandatory conditions for registering dependents is having comprehensive health insurance that covers each dependent. Without health insurance, the registration application will not be approved.
The cost of health insurance for dependents varies based on:
- Age of the dependent
- Type of coverage required
- Insurance company
- Region
Difference Between Registering Dependents for Private Sector vs. Government Sector Employees
Private Sector Employee: Bears the dependent fees (unless exempt). Salary must be 4,000 Riyals or more.
Government Sector Employee: Exempt from dependent fees. Being a government employee is sufficient to register family members without monthly fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
### ❓ What is the minimum salary to register dependents?
The minimum is 4,000 SAR per month, but some passports require 5,000 SAR, especially if the number of dependents is large.
### ❓ Can sons over 25 years old be registered?
Male sons over 25 years old are not considered dependents unless they are regular students at an educational institution (annual proof of regular study is required). Daughters remain dependents until marriage.
### ❓ Can parents be registered?
Yes, but under strict conditions: the resident must have sufficient financial capacity, suitable housing, and health insurance for the parents. Approval is not guaranteed and requires case-by-case review.
### ❓ How long does the registration process take?
Via Absher, it usually takes 24-48 hours. If manual review is needed, it may take a week or more.
### ❓ Can dependents be registered if my residency has expired?
No. Residency must be valid. Renew your residency first before submitting a dependent application.
### ❓ What is the difference between a “dependent” and a “companion”?
A dependent is issued a residency permit (dependent residency), while a companion enters on a companion visa and stays for a limited period. A dependent has full residency rights, such as opening a bank account and obtaining a driver’s license.
### ❓ Can dependents work in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, but only after updating their profession if they have suitable qualifications, or by obtaining an independent work permit. Male dependents can transfer sponsorship to a company after completing the transfer procedures.
### ❓ What are the annual health insurance fees for dependents?
Fees vary by insurance company but generally range between 1,000 – 3,000 SAR annually per individual, depending on age and coverage type.
Summary
Registering dependents in Saudi Arabia has become much easier with the Absher platform. The key is meeting the requirements: suitable salary, housing, health insurance, and attested documents. If you are in the government sector or in an exempt profession, you will not pay the financial compensation. Tip: Apply for registration immediately after your residency is stable to avoid violation fines if you delay.
—
Article from toly.today — Your comprehensive guide to Saudi services
- A copy of the dependent’s passport (valid)
- A copy of the marriage contract (attested by competent authorities)
- A copy of the birth certificates for children (attested)
- A copy of your residency (valid)
- A copy of the lease contract or property deed
- A copy of the salary certificate or salary definition from the employer
- Health insurance document for dependents
Important Note: If marriage or birth documents are issued outside Saudi Arabia, they must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Embassy in the country of issuance.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Via Absher Platform (Easiest and Fastest)
- Log in to your account on Absher Individuals
- From the main menu, select “Passport Services”
- Choose “Add Dependent” or “Register Dependents”
- Enter dependent information:
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Relationship
- Upload the required documents (passport, birth certificate, marriage contract)
- Pay the required fees (if any)
- Wait for approval — usually within 24-48 hours
Sometimes, the application requires manual review by Passports. In this case, you must book an appointment at a Passport office via Absher and submit the original documents.
Dependent Fees (Financial Consideration)
Since July 2020, the Dependent Fee has been applied, which imposes monthly fees for each dependent:
| Category | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|
| First Dependent | 400 Riyals |
| Second Dependent | 400 Riyals |
| Each Additional Dependent | 400 Riyals |
However, there are important exemptions:
- Health Sector Workers (doctors, nurses) are exempt
- Education Sector Workers (teachers, university professors) are exempt
- Agricultural Sector Workers are exempt
- Other categories according to ministerial decisions
If you are in an exempt category, make sure your profession code in your residency indicates this.
The Importance of Health Insurance for Dependents
One of the mandatory conditions for registering dependents is having comprehensive health insurance that covers each dependent. Without health insurance, the registration application will not be approved.
The cost of health insurance for dependents varies based on:
- Age of the dependent
- Type of coverage required
- Insurance company
- Region
Difference Between Registering Dependents for Private Sector vs. Government Sector Employees
Private Sector Employee: Bears the dependent fees (unless exempt). Salary must be 4,000 Riyals or more.
Government Sector Employee: Exempt from dependent fees. Being a government employee is sufficient to register family members without monthly fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
### ❓ What is the minimum salary to register dependents?
The minimum is 4,000 SAR per month, but some passports require 5,000 SAR, especially if the number of dependents is large.
### ❓ Can sons over 25 years old be registered?
Male sons over 25 years old are not considered dependents unless they are regular students at an educational institution (annual proof of regular study is required). Daughters remain dependents until marriage.
### ❓ Can parents be registered?
Yes, but under strict conditions: the resident must have sufficient financial capacity, suitable housing, and health insurance for the parents. Approval is not guaranteed and requires case-by-case review.
### ❓ How long does the registration process take?
Via Absher, it usually takes 24-48 hours. If manual review is needed, it may take a week or more.
### ❓ Can dependents be registered if my residency has expired?
No. Residency must be valid. Renew your residency first before submitting a dependent application.
### ❓ What is the difference between a “dependent” and a “companion”?
A dependent is issued a residency permit (dependent residency), while a companion enters on a companion visa and stays for a limited period. A dependent has full residency rights, such as opening a bank account and obtaining a driver’s license.
### ❓ Can dependents work in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, but only after updating their profession if they have suitable qualifications, or by obtaining an independent work permit. Male dependents can transfer sponsorship to a company after completing the transfer procedures.
### ❓ What are the annual health insurance fees for dependents?
Fees vary by insurance company but generally range between 1,000 – 3,000 SAR annually per individual, depending on age and coverage type.
Summary
Registering dependents in Saudi Arabia has become much easier with the Absher platform. The key is meeting the requirements: suitable salary, housing, health insurance, and attested documents. If you are in the government sector or in an exempt profession, you will not pay the financial compensation. Tip: Apply for registration immediately after your residency is stable to avoid violation fines if you delay.
—
Article from toly.today — Your comprehensive guide to Saudi services
Registering Dependents on Saudi Residency — Your Complete Guide 2026
Introduction
If you are a resident in Saudi Arabia and plan to bring your family to live with you, the first step after obtaining your residency is registering dependents. Your wife and children have the right to obtain a dependent residency, but the process has conditions and procedures you need to know to make it go smoothly.
In this article, we explain everything to you: conditions, steps, fees, and required documents.
Who Are Dependents?
Dependents are family members of the resident who obtain residency in Saudi Arabia based on the head of household’s residency. This includes:
- Wife (you have the right to issue residency for her)
- Children (males up to 25 years old, and females until marriage)
- Parents (in limited cases and under special conditions)
Important: If you have more than one wife, you have the right to issue residency for all wives and children.
Basic Conditions for Registering Dependents
To register dependents under your residency, these conditions must be met:
- Valid Residency: Your residency must be valid and free of violations
- Salary: The minimum salary to register dependents is 4,000 Saudi Riyals for the wife, and it increases depending on the number of dependents. Some sources require 5,000 Riyals or more
- Housing: You must have suitable housing (rented or owned)
- Health Insurance: Dependents must have comprehensive health insurance
- Marriage Contract Documentation: If you are married, your marriage contract must be documented and attested by official authorities
Required Documents for Submitting a Dependent Registration Application
To submit a dependent registration application, you need:
- A copy of the dependent’s passport (valid)
- A copy of the marriage contract (attested by competent authorities)
- A copy of the birth certificates for children (attested)
- A copy of your residency (valid)
- A copy of the lease contract or property deed
- A copy of the salary certificate or salary definition from the employer
- Health insurance document for dependents
Important Note: If marriage or birth documents are issued outside Saudi Arabia, they must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Embassy in the country of issuance.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Via Absher Platform (Easiest and Fastest)
- Log in to your account on Absher Individuals
- From the main menu, select “Passport Services”
- Choose “Add Dependent” or “Register Dependents”
- Enter dependent information:
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Relationship
- Upload the required documents (passport, birth certificate, marriage contract)
- Pay the required fees (if any)
- Wait for approval — usually within 24-48 hours
Sometimes, the application requires manual review by Passports. In this case, you must book an appointment at a Passport office via Absher and submit the original documents.
Dependent Fees (Financial Consideration)
Since July 2020, the Dependent Fee has been applied, which imposes monthly fees for each dependent:
| Category | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|
| First Dependent | 400 Riyals |
| Second Dependent | 400 Riyals |
| Each Additional Dependent | 400 Riyals |
However, there are important exemptions:
- Health Sector Workers (doctors, nurses) are exempt
- Education Sector Workers (teachers, university professors) are exempt
- Agricultural Sector Workers are exempt
- Other categories according to ministerial decisions
If you are in an exempt category, make sure your profession code in your residency indicates this.
The Importance of Health Insurance for Dependents
One of the mandatory conditions for registering dependents is having comprehensive health insurance that covers each dependent. Without health insurance, the registration application will not be approved.
The cost of health insurance for dependents varies based on:
- Age of the dependent
- Type of coverage required
- Insurance company
- Region
Difference Between Registering Dependents for Private Sector vs. Government Sector Employees
Private Sector Employee: Bears the dependent fees (unless exempt). Salary must be 4,000 Riyals or more.
Government Sector Employee: Exempt from dependent fees. Being a government employee is sufficient to register family members without monthly fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
### ❓ What is the minimum salary to register dependents?
The minimum is 4,000 SAR per month, but some passports require 5,000 SAR, especially if the number of dependents is large.
### ❓ Can sons over 25 years old be registered?
Male sons over 25 years old are not considered dependents unless they are regular students at an educational institution (annual proof of regular study is required). Daughters remain dependents until marriage.
### ❓ Can parents be registered?
Yes, but under strict conditions: the resident must have sufficient financial capacity, suitable housing, and health insurance for the parents. Approval is not guaranteed and requires case-by-case review.
### ❓ How long does the registration process take?
Via Absher, it usually takes 24-48 hours. If manual review is needed, it may take a week or more.
### ❓ Can dependents be registered if my residency has expired?
No. Residency must be valid. Renew your residency first before submitting a dependent application.
### ❓ What is the difference between a “dependent” and a “companion”?
A dependent is issued a residency permit (dependent residency), while a companion enters on a companion visa and stays for a limited period. A dependent has full residency rights, such as opening a bank account and obtaining a driver’s license.
### ❓ Can dependents work in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, but only after updating their profession if they have suitable qualifications, or by obtaining an independent work permit. Male dependents can transfer sponsorship to a company after completing the transfer procedures.
### ❓ What are the annual health insurance fees for dependents?
Fees vary by insurance company but generally range between 1,000 – 3,000 SAR annually per individual, depending on age and coverage type.
Summary
Registering dependents in Saudi Arabia has become much easier with the Absher platform. The key is meeting the requirements: suitable salary, housing, health insurance, and attested documents. If you are in the government sector or in an exempt profession, you will not pay the financial compensation. Tip: Apply for registration immediately after your residency is stable to avoid violation fines if you delay.
—
Article from toly.today — Your comprehensive guide to Saudi services
