Work Permit Visa

A Saudi Arabia Work Permit Visa is required for foreign nationals who wish to work legally in the country. The visa is issued under the sponsorship of a Saudi employer and allows expatriates to reside and work in Saudi Arabia for a specified period.

Types of Saudi Work Visas

  1. General Work Visa – Issued for skilled and unskilled labor under a Saudi employer.
  2. Block Visa – For companies hiring multiple employees under a government-approved quota.
  3. Temporary Work Visa – Short-term employment for specific projects.
  4. Seasonal Work Visa – Issued for seasonal industries, such as agriculture and construction.
  5. Domestic Worker Visa – For household workers, such as drivers and maids.

Requirements for a Saudi Work Visa

  • Valid passport (with at least six months validity and two blank pages)
  • Visa application form (completed and signed)
  • Employment contract (attested by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce)
  • Medical examination report (from an approved medical center)
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Academic and professional certificates (attested by relevant authorities)
  • Biometric data submission (fingerprints and photos)

Application Process

  1. Job Offer & Employer Sponsorship – A Saudi company must issue a job offer and obtain a visa authorization from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD).
  2. Visa Issuance – The employer processes the visa through the Saudi embassy in the applicant’s home country.
  3. Medical Test & Document Attestation – The applicant must complete a medical test and verify documents.
  4. Visa Stamping & Travel – After approval, the visa is stamped on the passport, allowing entry into Saudi Arabia.
  5. Iqama (Residence Permit) Issuance – Upon arrival, the employer arranges for an Iqama, which is mandatory for legal residence and work.

Important Notes

  • Work visas are generally valid for 90 days initially, after which an Iqama is issued for extended stay.
  • Employees must comply with Saudi labor laws and employer regulations.
  • Visa renewal and exit procedures must be followed as per the contract terms.