Who this guide is for
This guide is for Indian applicants applying for a Saudi residence visa. It is mainly useful for family residence visa and work visa applicants. It does not focus on short term visit visas, because most visit visas do not require WAFID medical.
Step 1: Visa authorization
The process usually starts when the sponsor or employer in Saudi Arabia issues the visa authorization or invitation. Keep a clear copy of this document because it is used during WAFID and VFS stages.
Step 2: WAFID appointment
Book the WAFID appointment online. The standard appointment fee shown on the official WAFID page is $10. After payment, the appointment slip can usually be downloaded immediately. Take a printout before visiting the medical center.
Step 3: Medical examination
Visit the assigned medical center with your passport copies, WAFID slip, visa authorization and other supporting documents. The usual sequence is registration, blood test, urine test, X-ray and doctor consultation.
Step 4: Fit certificate
If you are fit, the medical center updates your result on the WAFID website. Applicants may receive a call from the center around 4 to 5 PM on the same day or the next day. SMS and email updates are not always sent.
Step 5: VFS submission and biometrics
After the medical result is fit, book the VFS appointment. Reach 15 to 30 minutes before your appointment time. The VFS process may take around 2 to 3 hours depending on the queue.
Step 6: MOFA linking and stamping
After VFS submission and biometrics, the MOFA number is usually written on the VFS slip. Share this number with the medical center if they need to update the medical report against the MOFA number.