Saudi Arabia work visa requirements explained

What Is a Saudi Work Visa?

A work visa (also called an employment visa) allows you to live and work legally in Saudi Arabia. You cannot simply move there and start working — you must have the proper visa first. Most people get a work visa through a Saudi employer who sponsors them. Without an employer, it's very difficult to get a work visa on your own.

Who Needs a Work Visa?

Any foreign national who wants to work in Saudi Arabia must have a work visa. This applies to all jobs, whether temporary or permanent. Even if you have family in Saudi Arabia, that doesn't give you the right to work there. Your employer must be the one to sponsor your visa application.

Basic Requirements

To qualify for a Saudi work visa, you typically need:

• A valid passport (with enough blank pages and validity remaining)
• A job offer from a Saudi employer
• Medical clearance (health tests and vaccinations)
• A clean criminal record
• Proof of qualifications or education for your job
• Completed application forms
• Passport-sized photographs

Different jobs may have different requirements. For example, engineers, teachers, and healthcare workers might need additional certifications or licenses.

How the Process Works

Your Saudi employer handles most of the work visa process. Here's the basic flow:

• Your employer applies for work permission on your behalf
• Once approved, you receive documents to take to a Saudi embassy or consulate
• You submit your visa application with required documents
• You attend a medical examination
• You receive your work visa
• You enter Saudi Arabia and complete final registration with authorities

The whole process can take weeks or months, depending on your job type and the embassy processing time.

Important Things to Know

Sponsorship system: Saudi Arabia uses an employer sponsorship system. Your employer is legally responsible for you while you work there. If you change jobs, you need a new visa.

Residence permit: Once you arrive, you'll get a residence permit (iqama). This document proves you can legally live and work in Saudi Arabia.

Contract review: Before accepting a job, review your employment contract carefully. Understand your salary, benefits, working hours, and how long the contract lasts.

Language: While English is spoken in many workplaces, learning basic Arabic is helpful.

Next Steps

Check the official Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development website for current requirements. Also contact the Saudi embassy or consulate in your home country. They can give you exact documents needed and current processing times. Your employer should also guide you through their specific process.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.