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Saudi work visa : All you need to Know
Securing a work visa to enter Saudi Arabia is a critical step for any expatriate wishing to work in the kingdom. The process involves multiple stages, from obtaining employer sponsorship to passing medical tests. This article, brought to you by J K Consultations, provides a detailed guide on the end-to-end process of obtaining a Saudi work visa, aimed at smoothing the path for potential expatriates and their employers.
1. Employer Sponsorship:
The first step in obtaining a Saudi work visa is securing a job with a Saudi employer. In Saudi Arabia, the employer acts as the sponsor and is responsible for initiating the visa application process by obtaining a visa authorization number from the Ministry of Labor and Social Development (MLSD).
2. Visa Authorization:
Once a job offer is accepted, the employer must request a visa authorization from the MLSD. This involves submitting the prospective employee’s professional qualifications, passport details, and the job contract to the ministry. The employer must also demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Saudi national as part of the Saudization initiative.
3. Document Gathering and Verification:
The prospective employee must gather necessary documents, including:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Educational and professional qualifications, duly attested by the Saudi embassy in the applicant’s home country.
- A police clearance certificate indicating no criminal record.
- Medical clearance certificate from an approved medical center.
4. Visa Application at the Saudi Embassy:
With the visa authorization number and the necessary documents, the applicant can apply for a work visa at the Saudi embassy or consulate in their home country. The application must include:
- Completed application form.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Visa fee payment.
- The original visa authorization number.
- Attested educational and professional documents.
- Medical and police clearance certificates.
5. Medical Tests:
The applicant must undergo a comprehensive medical examination at a medical facility approved by the Saudi embassy. The examination typically includes blood tests, x-rays, and other health checks to ensure the applicant does not carry any communicable diseases.
6. Visa Stamping:
Once the embassy receives all necessary documents and approvals, the work visa will be stamped in the applicant’s passport. The duration of this process can vary but typically takes a few weeks.
7. Entry into Saudi Arabia:
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, the employee must present their passport with the visa at immigration. The passport will be stamped, and the employee will be allowed to enter the country.
8. Iqama (Residency Permit):
After entering Saudi Arabia, the next step is to obtain an Iqama, which is a residency permit that allows the expatriate to live and work in Saudi Arabia. The employer will facilitate this process, which involves:
- Submission of passport and visa details to the Ministry of Interior.
- Another round of medical tests in Saudi Arabia.
- Biometric data registration, including fingerprints and a photograph.
9. Iqama Issuance:
Once all formalities are completed, the Iqama will be issued. The Iqama must be renewed annually, and it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure its timely renewal.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a Saudi work visa involves multiple steps, each requiring careful attention to detail and coordination with various Saudi government agencies and the employer. While the process can be lengthy and requires substantial paperwork, understanding each step and preparing accordingly can significantly ease the transition for future expatriates.
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Jassim Karadan, Senior Business Consultant
Start your business in Saudi Arabia with J K Management Consultancy. From licensing to setup, we provide expert guidance to help you establish and grow your venture in the Kingdom’s thriving economy. Your success is our priority
