Steps on how to apply for a Brunei Dependent Visa

Do you want to apply for a Brunei dependent visa for your spouse, children, or a family member? You can check out our guide on how to apply for one. Visas are required for your family to join you overseas. 

In addition, there are things you should know before you begin the visa application process. Hence, make sure that you have all the documents ready.

This article will walk you through the process of applying for a dependent visa, including what documents you will need to provide and when to submit them.

What is a Brunei-dependent visa?

A Brunei dependent visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to stay and work in Brunei country for a specific period not exceeding ninety days.

Furthermore, dependent visas are also granted to foreigners who are married to citizens of Brunei, have a child with a citizen of Brunei, or are the parents or guardians of a citizen of Brunei.

What is the processing time for a Brunei dependent visa?

 To be eligible for a Brunei dependent visa, applicants must first apply through the Brunei embassy or consulate. 

In general, the processing time for this visa ranges from three to six working days. 

Applicants are advised to check the processing time for their case with the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate.

How much does it cost to obtain the Brunei dependent visa?

If you are a citizen of a country that is a member of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), you are eligible for Brunei dependent visa.

More so, if you are a citizen of a country that has an agreement with Brunei to provide visa-free access for its citizens, then you may be able to obtain the Brunei dependent visa. 

The actual fee for obtaining a dependent visa for Brunei is B$150. Importantly, you will be charged the fee when you submit your visa application. 

What are the requirements for a Brunei dependent visa?

A Brunei dependent visa is a visa that allows nationals of Brunei to stay and work in the country. 

The visa requirements are different for each nationality. Hence, you must know what you need to get one.

#1. A completed Brunei visa application form

To secure a Brunei dependent visa, you must fill out a visa application form and provide some documents that prove your identity, age, financial stability, etc.

#2. Two passport photos

Foreign nationals must present two passport photos to the Immigration Department upon application for a new visa or renewal of an existing visa.

Additionally, the photos must be taken within the past six months and should show your face without sunglasses or hats.

#3. An invitation letter from an employer in Brunei

To be eligible for a Brunei dependent visa, an applicant must meet the requirements set forth by their employer. 

Furthermore, the letter of invitation from the employer is a document that proves that the applicant is indeed eligible for the visa and is willing to come to Brunei to work. 

The letter must be in English, signed by the employer, and include information about the position available, salary, working hours, and other benefits offered.

#4. A documentary statement of intent to reside in the country

A cover letter is one of the requirements for a Brunei dependent visa. You must submit a cover letter stating your skills, knowledge, and interests. 

The letter must focus on why you would be a good fit for a Brunei dependent visa and what you can bring to the table.

The letter should include information about the applicant’s occupation and length of stay in Brunei.

#5. Proof of accommodation

Brunei requires proof of accommodation before issuing a Brunei dependent visa. 

The dependent must have a place to stay while in the country and be able to afford the rent, mortgage, or other necessary costs.

#6. Evidence of sponsorship

Applicants must submit their sponsor’s passport to receive a dependent visa. In addition, the sponsor must be able to provide proof of financial support for the dependent.

#7. A valid work permit

As a requirement for Brunei dependent visas, applicants must have a valid work permit.

The work permit is granted if the foreigner can provide evidence of having a job and the salary the job pays.

Hence, foreigners who are not citizens of Brunei or travelers who do not have employment permits cannot work in the country.

#8. Health insurance

Health insurance is a requirement for Brunei dependent visas. Accordingly, the government of Brunei requires all visa applicants to be medically fit and present proof of medical insurance. 

However, this policy is in place to ensure that visa applicants can afford the cost of health care should they need it while in Brunei. 

Health insurance is also relevant for visa holders, as it provides financial stability in the event of an illness or injury.

#9. A return airfare/ ticket

The visa requires the applicant to have a return ticket from their last location. This requirement helps to prevent people from overstaying their visas and becoming illegal immigrants.

#10. National passport

Passport validity for a Brunei dependent visa is six months beyond the date of your passport expiration.

However, if your passport is less than six months valid, or if it has been damaged beyond repair, you will need to obtain a new passport before applying for a Brunei dependent visa.

Self-employed applicants must submit either a company/business registration certificate, Memorandum of Article (MOA), or partnership deed.

Application procedure

If you are a foreigner who needs to apply for a Brunei dependent visa, the following steps will help you get started. 

Step 1. Determine if you qualify for a Brunei dependent visa

If you are a citizen of a country member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), you may be eligible for a dependent visa for Brunei. 

However, you must prove that you cannot support yourself financially and that you have a close relationship with your family in Brunei. 

If you get approval, the visa will allow you to stay in the foreign country for ninety days.

Step 2. Schedule an appointment with a Brunei embassy or consulate near you

The next step to securing a Brunei dependent visa is to schedule an appointment with a Brunei embassy in your country of residence.

If you need to schedule an appointment with a Brunei embassy or consulate near you, check the website or contact the embassy or consulate directly.

To make the process easier, applicants can find a list of Brunei’s missions abroad.

Step 3. Submit the application form and any supporting documentation

The third step to securing a Brunei dependent visa is to complete an application form and provide supporting documents. 

You can get the form on the embassy’s website or office. More so, you need to submit your application fee and supporting documents. 

However, the embassy may require additional documents before issuing your visa.

Importantly, applicants submit the necessary documents to the Mission at least thirty days before traveling to Brunei Darussalam.

Step 4. Pay the Brunei dependent visa fees

The next step for travelers who need a Brunei-dependent visa is to pay the visa fees.

In addition, the dependent visa fee waiver program is available for those who prove that they will not be able to support themselves in the country.

To qualify, applicants must have an income below the poverty line and provide documentation that proves their relationship to a Bruneian resident.

Step 5. Wait for notification from the Brunei embassy about your application status

If you are waiting for a decision on your visa, keep in mind that the process can take up to six days. 

Make sure you keep updated on the progress of your case by checking the website regularly.

See Also: Brunei Student Visa – Application, Requirements, and Funding

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I invite my family to Brunei?

Brunei is a fantastic country to visit and the perfect place to bring your family. 

There is plenty to do and see, and the people are friendly. You will never feel alone in Brunei, and your family will love the relaxed atmosphere.

Who can enter Brunei without a visa?

Brunei is a visa-free country for citizens of the following countries: Australia, Canada, China, France, Japan, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Can a dependent visa holder work in Brunei?

Dependent visa holders can work in the country if they have a valid work permit and meet the requirements of the Bruneian government.

Dependent visa holders must meet the requirements, such as being of good moral character and having a clean criminal record.

They must also be able to speak, read, and write the Malay language.

Can a foreigner get citizenship in Brunei?

Anyone who meets the requirements of the Brunei government can apply for citizenship.

The requirements include meeting a certain educational standard and having a good moral character.

Furthermore, there are also residency requirements, such as living in Brunei for at least five years. 

Is it easy to get a job in Brunei?

There are many job opportunities in Brunei, and it is not difficult to find a job.

Additionally, the government offers programs to help new arrivals find work, and many employers offer internships and training programs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are planning to visit Brunei, please read our guide on how to apply for a Brunei-dependent visa. 

Remember to keep your paperwork and photos together when submitting your application. It will help speed up the visa approval process. 

Finally, do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns throughout the visa application process. Thank you for reading!