Family costs in Saudi Arabia at a glance
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dependent fee | SAR 400 per person per month (SAR 4,800 a year) |
| Single exit/re-entry visa | SAR 200 for 2 months + SAR 100 per extra month |
| Multiple exit/re-entry visa | SAR 500 for 3 months + SAR 200 per extra month |
Annual dependent fee by family size
| Dependents | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | SAR 400 | SAR 4,800 |
| 2 | SAR 800 | SAR 9,600 |
| 3 | SAR 1,200 | SAR 14,400 |
| 4 | SAR 1,600 | SAR 19,200 |
| 5 | SAR 2,000 | SAR 24,000 |
| 6 | SAR 2,400 | SAR 28,800 |
Worked example
A resident with a wife and two children has three dependents. The dependent fee is 3 × SAR 400 × 12 = SAR 14,400 a year. If all four travel home once on single exit/re-entry visas valid for two months, that adds 4 × SAR 200 = SAR 800, for a total of SAR 15,200 – about SAR 1,267 a month.
Tips to plan the cost
- Renew for shorter periods (3 or 6 months) to spread the dependent fee if cash flow is tight.
- A multiple exit/re-entry visa pays off if the family travels more than twice in its validity period.
- Budget for medical insurance for each dependent, which is required for the Iqama.
Leaving Saudi Arabia for good? Work out your end-of-service benefit and read our guide to the Saudi dependent fee.
Fees are set by the Saudi government and can change. Confirm current amounts on Absher before paying.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the dependent fee in Saudi Arabia?
SAR 400 per dependent per month, or SAR 4,800 a year for each family member sponsored on your Iqama. It has been at this level since July 2020 and is usually paid in advance when the Iqama is renewed.
Who has to pay the dependent fee?
Expatriate residents pay it for each dependent – typically spouse, children and other relatives on their Iqama. Domestic workers are not counted as dependents for this fee.
Can I pay the dependent fee monthly or quarterly?
Yes. Many residents now renew the Iqama for 3, 6, 9 or 12 months, and the dependent fee is charged for the period you renew.
How much is an exit and re-entry visa?
A single exit/re-entry visa costs SAR 200 for up to two months plus SAR 100 for each additional month. A multiple exit/re-entry visa costs SAR 500 for up to three months plus SAR 200 for each additional month. Every family member travelling needs their own visa.
What happens if the dependent fee is not paid?
Unpaid fees block the Iqama renewal and exit/re-entry visas for the family. Clear any dues on Absher before planning travel.
Last reviewed: October 2026