Obtaining a work permit in Saudi Arabia involves a multi-step process that is primarily initiated and managed by your Saudi employer, who acts as your sponsor. The ultimate goal is to obtain an Iqama, which is the official residence and work permit for expatriates.
Here's a breakdown of the process and key requirements:
1. Job Offer and Sponsorship:
You must first secure a job offer from a Saudi employer. This employer will be your sponsor and is responsible for most of the work permit application process.
The employer needs to have visa approval from the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Social Development (MHRSD) to employ foreign nationals.
2. Initial Work Visa Application (Employer's Role):
Your employer will submit an application for a work visa on your behalf with the MHRSD (formerly Ministry of Labor).
Once approved, the MHRSD notifies the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), which issues a visa authorization number.
The employer may also need to register with the Ministry of Interior to open an immigration file for expatriate employees.
3. Documents Required from the Applicant: You will need to provide your employer with various documents, which typically include:
Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, with at least two empty visa pages.
Passport-sized Photographs: Recent, color photos with a white background.
Completed Visa Application Form.
Employment Contract: Signed by both you and your Saudi employer, certified by MOFA and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce.
Invitation Letter/Sponsorship Letter: From the Saudi company, certified by MOFA and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce, indicating your name, position, block visa number, and date.
Educational Certificates/Diplomas: Certified and notarized copies of your university degree or technical diploma, validated by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (if applicable).
Medical Report/Certificate: From a licensed physician, issued within the last three months, stating full contact details of the surgery/clinic. It usually requires blood tests (HIV, hepatitis B/C), urinalysis, and a stool test. This often needs to be legalized by your country's Foreign Office and the Saudi Embassy.
Police Report/Criminal Record Check: Issued within the last month, legalized by your country's Foreign Office and the Saudi Embassy, proving no criminal record.
Proof of Online Payment of the visa fee (usually through the Enjazit website).
Health Insurance.
4. Visa Issuance and Travel to Saudi Arabia:
Once the work visa is approved, the Saudi embassy in your home country will issue the visa (typically within 1-3 weeks).
The work visa itself is often a "visit visa" that allows you to enter Saudi Arabia and stay for a maximum of 90 days.
5. Obtaining the Iqama (Residence Permit) Upon Arrival:
Upon your arrival in Saudi Arabia and within the 90-day window of your work visa, your employer must apply for your Iqama (residence permit) through the MHRSD.
The Iqama acts as your standard form of identification in Saudi Arabia and is essential for accessing most services (e.g., opening a bank account, renting property).
You are generally required to carry your Iqama with you at all times.
The Iqama is typically valid for one to two years, depending on the employment contract, and must be renewed annually.
Recent Changes and Important Points:
Skill-Based System: As of July 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has introduced a new skill-based classification system for expatriate work permits. Work permits are categorized into high-skill, skilled, and basic levels based on qualifications, experience, wages, and age. Employers need to reclassify existing expat employees and ensure new hires meet skill-level eligibility.
Employer Responsibility: Your employer is generally responsible for covering the costs associated with the work permit and Iqama.
Medical Examination and Fingerprints: You will likely need to undergo a medical examination and have your fingerprints taken in Saudi Arabia before your Iqama is issued.
Carrying Iqama: It is mandatory to carry your Iqama at all times, as failing to present it when requested can result in fines.
It's highly recommended to work closely with your sponsoring employer and, if necessary, a qualified immigration advisor to ensure all requirements are m
et and the process runs smoothly.
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