Introduction to Dependent Fees in Saudi Arabia
Since the implementation of the dependent fees system (formerly known as accompanying fees) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it has become an important topic for every resident who wishes to bring their family with them. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about dependent fees for residency, exempt categories, payment methods, and the penalties for non-payment.
What Are Dependent Fees for Residency?
These are annual fees imposed by the Saudi government on every dependent (family member) brought in under the sponsorship of a resident. The fees are calculated monthly and paid annually when renewing the residency or issuing an exit and re-entry visa for the dependent.
The set value is 400 Saudi Riyals per month for each dependent (i.e., 4,800 Saudi Riyals annually). The fees are paid for the remaining validity period of the dependent’s residency.
Categories Exempt from Dependent Fees
There are several categories that are exempt from dependent fees, including:
- Saudi Citizens: A Saudi citizen does not pay dependent fees for their spouse or children.
- Spouse of a Saudi Citizen: A resident who is the spouse of a Saudi citizen is exempt along with their children.
- Domestic Workers: Maids, drivers, and domestic workers are not considered dependents but rather sponsored workers.
- Children of Saudi Mothers: Dependents who are children of Saudi mothers married to non-Saudis.
- Scholarship Students: Students on scholarships with their families as dependents.
- Holders of Premium Residency: Holders of the Premium Residency card are exempt from these fees.
- Children of Gulf Citizens: Residents who are children of citizens from Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
Methods of Paying Dependent Fees
You can pay dependent fees through several convenient methods:
- Absher: Log in to your Absher account, select electronic services, then pay accompanying fees.
- Muqeem Platform: Payment services are available through the Muqeem platform for authorized entities.
- SADAD: Through Saudi bank applications under the SADAD bill payment service.
- Passport Offices: Visit the nearest passport office to pay the fees in cash or by card.
What Happens If Dependent Fees Are Not Paid?
Failure to pay dependent fees on time results in:
- Late Payment Penalties: A penalty of 2.5% of the unpaid fees is charged monthly.
- Renewal Blocking: You cannot renew the dependent’s residency or issue an exit and re-entry visa for them.
- Debt Accumulation: Fees and penalties accumulate until full payment is made.
- Service Suspension: Some government services for the sponsor may be suspended.
Important Tips
- Calculate dependent fees when planning to bring your family to be prepared in advance.
- Monitor the expiration dates of your dependents’ residencies and renew them before the deadline to avoid penalties.
- Use the Absher app to directly inquire about the amount of fees due.
- If you are in an exempt category, ensure your data is updated in the Passport Office to avoid fee claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dependent fees apply to all residents?
No, there are exempt categories as mentioned above. However, most residents who bring their families are subject to these fees.
Is a wife considered a dependent in terms of fees?
Yes, a resident wife sponsored by her husband is considered a dependent and is subject to the same dependent fee system.
How much are dependent fees annually?
400 Saudi Riyals per month for each dependent, i.e., 4,800 Saudi Riyals annually for each dependent. If you have a wife and two children, for example, the total is 14,400 Saudi Riyals annually.
Can dependent fees be paid in installments?
No, the fees are calculated for the remaining period only and must be paid in a single payment when renewing residency or issuing an exit and re-entry visa.
When were dependent fees implemented?
The fees began to be applied gradually starting from July 2017.
