Saudi Arabia Work Visa

Summary: Saudi Arabia Work Visa (Iqama)

• Eligibility: Confirmed job offer from a registered Saudi employer
• Key Requirements:
  • Attested educational certificates
  • Police clearance & medical certificates
  • Valid passport (>12 months)
• Process:
  1. Employer's initial approval
  2. Document submission & online application
  3. Visa stamping at Saudi Embassy/Consulate
  4. Iqama issuance after arrival
• Timeline: 2-4 weeks for processing, 1-2 years visa validity
• Fees: Approximately SAR 2,400 (USD 640) for a 2-year visa, plus other costs
• Next Steps: Consult official Saudi government websites, work closely with your employer, and consider expert immigration advice if needed.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Saudi Work Visas
2. Types of Work Visas for Saudi Arabia
3. Requirements for a Saudi Arabia Work Visa (Iqama)
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
5. Post-Arrival Procedures
6. Iqama (Residence Permit) Details
7. Renewal and Cancellation of Iqama
8. Family Sponsorship and Dependents
9. Important Considerations and Recent Reforms
10. COVID-19 Implications and Travel Restrictions
11. Where to Apply and Useful Resources
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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1. Overview of Saudi Work Visas

Saudi Arabia offers work visas to attract foreign talent, supporting its economic and developmental goals. The work visa, commonly referred to as "Iqama," allows foreign nationals to work and reside in the Kingdom for a specified period.

2. Types of Work Visas for Saudi Arabia

• Work Visa (Iqama): For foreign nationals with a job offer from a Saudi employer.
• Temporary Work Visa: For short-term assignments (typically 3, 6, or 9 months, extendable in some cases).
• Internship Visa: For students or recent graduates, usually with specific requirements and a shorter duration.
• Domestic Worker Visa: For hiring domestic staff (drivers, nannies, housekeepers, etc.).

3. Requirements for a Saudi Arabia Work Visa (Iqama)

General Requirements:

1. Job Offer: A confirmed job offer from a Saudi employer.
2. Degree Attestation: Qualifications (degrees, diplomas) attested by the Saudi Embassy/Consulate in your home country and the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia.
3. Medical Certificate: A medical report showing you're free from infectious diseases.
4. Police Clearance Certificate: To ensure you have no criminal record (required for certain professions or at the employer's request).

Documents:

• Valid Passport: With at least 6 months' validity.
• Completed Visa Application Form.
• Recent Photos (as specified by the Saudi Embassy/Consulate).
• Copy of the Job Contract (in Arabic, signed by both you and your employer).
• Employer’s Commercial Registration and License.
• Employer’s Letter of Sponsorship.

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Employer’s Initial Steps

1. Obtain a Block Visa from the Ministry of Labor and Social Development

• What is a Block Visa?: A block visa is a preliminary approval granted to the employer by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, allowing them to hire a specific number of foreign workers.
• Requirements for Block Visa:
  • Commercial Registration: Employer's valid commercial registration.
  • Labor License: Valid labor license.
  • Quota Approval: Approval for the employee quota from the Ministry of Labor.
  • Fee Payment: Payment of the block visa fee (currently SAR 2,000 per visa, subject to change).
• How to Apply:
  1. Online Application: Through the Ministry of Labor's Online Portal.
  2. Submission of Documents: Upload required documents to the portal.
  3. Approval: Receive block visa approval electronically.

2. Apply for an Electronic Work Visa through the Saudi Ministry of Labor’s Website

• Requirements for Electronic Work Visa:
  • Block Visa Number: The recently obtained block visa number.
  • Employee Details: Full name, nationality, date of birth, occupation, and qualifications.
  • Job Contract Details: Signed job contract (in Arabic) with all terms and conditions.
• Application Steps:
  1. Login to the Portal: Using the employer's credentials on the Ministry of Labor's website.
  2. Fill in the Application: Provide all required employee and job contract details.
  3. Upload Documents: Job contract, employee’s qualifications, and any other requested documents.
  4. Submit Application: For review and approval.

Your Steps After Employer's Approval

1. Medical Examination

• Purpose: To ensure you don't have any infectious diseases.
• Where to Conduct:
  • Approved Medical Centers: In your home country, as listed by the Saudi Embassy/Consulate.
• Required Tests:
  • Blood Tests: For HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Malaria.
  • Chest X-Ray: To check for Tuberculosis (TB).
  • Other Tests: As may be specified by the Saudi health ministry.
• What to Do with the Report:
  • Get it Sealed and Stamped: By the medical center.
  • Attach to Visa Application: As part of the required documents.

2. Visa Application

• Through: The Saudi Embassy/Consulate website in your home country.
• Required Documents:
  • Valid Passport: With at least 6 months' validity.
  • Completed Application Form.
  • Recent Photos: As per the specified requirements.
  • Medical Report: Sealed and stamped.
  • Educational Certificates: Attested by the Saudi Embassy/Consulate and the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia.
  • Job Contract: A copy of the contract signed by both you and your employer.
• Application Steps:
  1. Register on the Website: Create an account if you don't already have one.
  2. Fill in the Application Form: Accurately provide all required information.
  3. Upload Documents: Ensure all files are in the requested format and size.
  4. Submit Application: Pay the visa application fee (if applicable) and submit.

3. Interview (If Required)

• Notification: You will be informed if an interview is necessary.
• Preparation:
  • Job Knowledge: Be prepared to discuss your role, responsibilities, and qualifications.
  • Saudi Arabia Knowledge: Basic understanding of the country, its laws, and customs.
• Conduct:
  • At the Saudi Embassy/Consulate: On the scheduled date and time.
  • Dress Code: Formal attire recommended.

Entering Saudi Arabia

1. Upon Approval, Receive a Visa Number and a Single-Entry Work Visa

• What to Expect:
  • Visa Number: Provided via email or through your online application portal.
  • Single-Entry Work Visa: Allows you to enter Saudi Arabia once within a specified period (usually 90 days from the issue date).
• Next Steps:
  • Travel to Saudi Arabia: Within the validity period of your single-entry visa.
  • Inform Your Employer: Of your travel dates for necessary arrangements.

2. Iqama (Residence Permit)

• After Arrival:
  • Employer’s Responsibility: To initiate the Iqama application process.
  • Required Documents:
    • Valid Passport.
    • Entry Visa.
    • Medical Insurance.
    • Fingerprint Registration (at a designated center).
• Iqama Issuance:
  • Validity Period: Typically 1 or 2 years, aligned with your employment contract.
  • Renewal: Handled by your employer before the expiration date.

5. Post-Arrival Procedures

• Iqama Fees:
  • Paid by the Employer: As per Saudi labor laws, though this can vary based on company policies.
  • Fee Amount: Subject to change, currently around SAR 750 per year (approximately USD 200).
• Iqama Card:
  • Issuance: After all documents are verified and fees are paid.
  • Contents: Your name, nationality, date of birth, occupation, employer’s name, and validity period.
  • Importance: Mandatory for all residents; used for various transactions, including opening a bank account, purchasing a vehicle, and accessing healthcare.

Post-Iqama Issuance

1. Registration with the Local Authorities

• Purpose: To update your residential address in the Saudi authorities’ records.
• Required Documents:
  • Iqama Card.
  • Rental Agreement (or proof of ownership if you own the property).
  • Utility Bills (e.g., electricity, water, or internet).
• Process:
  1. Visit the Local Municipality Office: With all required documents.
  2. Fill in the Registration Form: Provided by the municipality.
  3. Submit for Approval: Wait for the registration to be processed.

2. Opening a Local Bank Account

• Requirement: For salary transfers and to receive a debit/ATM card.
• Documents Needed:
  • Iqama Card.
  • Passport.
  • Proof of Address (utility bill or rental agreement).
  • Letter from Your Employer (in some cases).
• Process:
  1. Choose a Bank: Select from the various banks in Saudi Arabia.
  2. Visit the Bank Branch: With all required documents.
  3. Fill in the Account Opening Form: Provided by the bank.
  4. Account Activation: Receive your debit/ATM card and internet banking credentials.

Additional Tips and Reminders

• Stay Informed: Regularly check the official Saudi government and embassy/consulate websites for updates on visa and Iqama regulations.
• Health Insurance: Ensure you have valid health insurance that covers you in Saudi Arabia, as required by law.
• Cultural Awareness: Familiarize yourself with Saudi customs, laws, and social norms to ensure a smooth transition.
• Emergency Contacts:
  • Saudi Emergency Number: 911 (or 112 from mobile phones).
  • Your Embassy’s Emergency Contact: For assistance related to your nationality.

6. Iqama (Residence Permit) Details

• Validity: Usually 1 or 2 years, depending on the contract.
• Renewal: Handled by your employer before the expiration date.
• Iqama Fees: Paid by the employer, though this can vary based on company policies.

7. Renewal and Cancellation of Iqama

• Renewal Process: Initiated by your employer through the Ministry of Labor’s online portal.
• Cancellation:
  • Initiated by the employer if the employment contract is terminated.
  • You must exit the country within a specified timeframe after cancellation.

8. Family Sponsorship and Dependents

• Eligibility: Typically, employees with a minimum salary requirement (currently SAR 5,000 for most professions) can sponsor family members.
• Dependent Visa: Allows spouses, children, and in some cases, parents to reside in Saudi Arabia.
• Requirements for Dependent Visa:
  • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates).
  • Medical insurance for dependents.
  • Registration with the local authorities.

9. Important Considerations and Recent Reforms

• Sponsorship System (Kafala): Evolving to offer more flexibility, including the ability to change jobs without an NOC in certain cases.
• Labor Reforms: Aimed at improving working conditions and rights for expatriates.
• Saudi Vision 2030: Encourages the hiring of local talent, which might impact certain sectors' ability to hire expats.

10. COVID-19 Implications and Travel Restrictions

1. Check the Latest Travel Advisories: Before Planning Your Trip

• Why: Travel advisories can change frequently due to the dynamic nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• How to Check:
  • Saudi Government Official Websites:
    • Ministry of Health (MOH): www.moh.gov.sa
    • Ministry of Interior (MOI): www.moi.gov.sa
  • Your Home Country's Travel Advisory Website:
    • Examples: U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov), UK Government Travel Advice (gov.uk/travel-abroad), etc.
  • World Health Organization (WHO) Website: www.who.int for global COVID-19 updates.

2. Health Insurance: Must Cover COVID-19 Treatment

• Requirement:
  • Your health insurance policy must explicitly cover COVID-19 treatment in Saudi Arabia.
  • This is usually a mandatory requirement for issuing or renewing your Iqama (Residence Permit).
• What to Ensure:
  • Policy Coverage: Verify that COVID-19 is included in the policy's coverage.
  • Geographical Coverage: Ensure the policy covers you in Saudi Arabia.
  • Policy Duration: Aligns with your intended stay in Saudi Arabia.
• How to Obtain:
  • Through Your Employer: Many Saudi employers provide health insurance as part of the employment package. Confirm with your HR department.
  • Private Purchase: If not provided by your employer, you can purchase a policy from a licensed insurance provider in Saudi Arabia or one that offers international coverage including Saudi Arabia.

3. Entry Requirements: COVID-19 Related Measures

• Subject to Change: These requirements can be updated frequently. Always check the latest information before your trip.
• Possible Entry Requirements:
  1. PCR Test Before Arrival:
     • Timeline: Usually, a PCR test is required within 72 hours before your flight to Saudi Arabia.
     • Certificate: Ensure you receive a negative PCR test certificate in English or Arabic.
  2. PCR Test After Arrival:
     • Timeline: You might be required to undergo another PCR test upon arrival or within a specified timeframe after entering Saudi Arabia.
  3. Quarantine Measures:
     • Home Quarantine: You may be required to self-isolate at home for a specified period (e.g., 7 days).
     • Institutional Quarantine: In some cases, quarantine might be mandated in a designated facility, especially if you're not vaccinated or coming from high-risk areas.
  4. Vaccination Requirements:
     • COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate: Proof of full vaccination might be required. Check the approved vaccine list by the Saudi Ministry of Health.
     • Booster Shots: Depending on the time elapsed since your last vaccine dose, a booster shot might be necessary.
  5. Tawakkalna App:
     • Registration: You may need to register on the Tawakkalna app, which is used for COVID-19 tracking and to verify your vaccination status or test results.

Action Plan Before Your Trip:

1. Verify All Requirements: Check with official sources for the most current COVID-19 travel requirements.
2. Ensure Insurance Coverage: Confirm your health insurance covers COVID-19 treatment in Saudi Arabia.
3. Schedule PCR Tests: As required before and potentially after your arrival.
4. Prepare for Quarantine (If Required): Understand the quarantine rules and prepare accordingly.
5. Stay Informed: Continuously monitor updates on travel advisories and entry requirements.

11. Where to Apply and Useful Resources

• Saudi Arabian Embassies/Consulates: In your home country or nearest available location.
• Official Government Websites:
  • Ministry of Labor and Social Development (https://www.mlsd.gov.sa/)
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://www.mofa.gov.sa/)
  • Saudi Government Portal (https://www.saudi.gov.sa/)

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need to speak Arabic to work in Saudi Arabia?
A: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely used in business. Language requirements depend on your job role; some positions may require Arabic proficiency.

Q: Are there any restrictions on sending money back home from my Saudi Arabian salary?
A: Generally, no, but there might be taxation implications. Saudi Arabia allows expats to remit a significant portion of their earnings. Check with your bank and financial advisor for the best practices.

Q: How does the Saudi Arabian weekend affect my work schedule?
A: The weekend in Saudi Arabia is Friday and Saturday. Your workweek will typically be Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday off, unless specified otherwise by your employer.

Q: Can I own a car in Saudi Arabia as a foreign worker?
A: Yes, but you'll need a valid Saudi Arabian driving license (which requires exchanging or transferring your existing license) and car insurance. Some employers may also provide company vehicles.

Q: What is the typical housing arrangement for expats in Saudi Arabia?
A: This varies widely. Some employers provide free or subsidized housing, while others offer a housing allowance as part of the salary package. You can also arrange your own accommodation.

Q: Are there dress code restrictions I should be aware of for work and daily life?
A: Yes, Saudi Arabia is conservative. For work, adhere to your company's dress code, which often includes modest attire. In public, both men and women should dress conservatively, with women covering their hair and body.

Q: Can I practice my religion freely in Saudi Arabia?
A: Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country with specific laws and regulations. While the practice of other religions in private is generally tolerated, public practice of religions other than Islam is restricted. Be respectful of local customs and laws.

Q: How do I access healthcare services in Saudi Arabia?
A: With your Iqama, you're eligible for healthcare services. Many employers also provide private health insurance. For emergencies, dial 997. For non-emergencies, contact your healthcare provider or insurance company for guidance.

Q: What are the common ways to stay connected with family and friends back home?
A: Popular options include WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom for video calls, and social media platforms. Some voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services might have restrictions, so it's best to check the current regulations.