work visit visa saudi arabia rules

Visas and Work Permits — 8 min

Work permits and visas in Saudi Arabia: an employer’s guide

Sally Flaxman

Saudi Arabia  is undergoing massive employment and digitization. It's phasing out of a sponsorship system and improving the overall employment ecosystem with modifications to the Labor Code  and an ambitious Vision 2030 . 

The combination of rapid digitization and improved work conditions in Saudi Arabia prompts employers to consider how they can manage work visas  in Saudi Arabia and follow documentation rules. You'll need to know how to legally hire employees without an owned entity, manage work visa requirements, and manage employees or contractors compliantly in the country.

Employers should ensure all hiring and payment processes strictly adhere to employment and tax laws. Failing to do so is harshly penalized and may result in hefty financial fines on employers, deportation of workers, and civil or criminal offenses in cases of repeat or serious violations. 

The importance of immigration compliance in Saudi Arabia

Which workers need a right-to-work check in saudi arabia, do noncitizens need a work visa or work permit in saudi arabia, what are the eligibility requirements for a work visa in saudi arabia, what are the long-stay visa types in saudi arabia, how do you get a work visa for saudi arabia, what is the process for employee work visa sponsorship in saudi arabia, what are the visa requirements for digital nomads in saudi arabia, how remote makes compliance in saudi arabia so much easier.

This industry-defining guide will keep you abreast of work visa requirements and permits in Saudi Arabia and how to hire remote employees compliantly from start to finish. 

If you're hiring noncitizens in Saudi Arabia under any work arrangement, including remote work, you must ensure they are employed according to local labor laws and regulations.

The Cancellation of Fines and Exemption of Penalties Initiative  gives employees and workers only up to six months, as of June 1, 2022, to fill out the required forms and adjust their situation. Otherwise, employers may face a series of financial penalties and possible civil actions due to:

Noncompliance with VAT invoice issuance, the inclusion of all VAT elements, and accounting invoice maintenance 

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The growing adoption, even popularity, of remote work and digital nomad visas or programs may lead some employers and workers to pay insufficient attention to adequate — and legal — ways to work in Saudi Arabia. For example, Saudi Arabia already has several visa types  for different purposes, including tourism. So bypassing established rules for each visa type, such as working on a tourist visa, is a ticket to regulatory fines, possible deportation, and more.

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For years, Saudi Arabia has been improving the criteria needed to strike a balance between employer and work rights. For example, to help improve right-to-work checks, enhance work conditions locally, and transfer skills to Saudi nationals, Saudi Arabia has in place a nationwide Saudization program . 

The employment process based on nationality is regulated as follows:

Permanent residents.  Like citizens, permanent residents are free to work anywhere in Saudi Arabia without restrictions. 

Temporary residents.  Unless meeting the requirements above, all temporary residents — including individuals holding tourist, business visit, or residence visas — must follow prescribed procedures and rules for foreigners who wish to work in Saudi Arabia. To be eligible, workers need to apply via an employer, who must contact the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development .

Work permit holders.  This class of noncitizens already fulfills all requirements to work and stay in Saudi Arabia. 

Managing work visas and permits for noncitizens in Saudi Arabia can get complex for employers who may not have enough resources and/or legal expertise.

Here is where a global employment service  such as Remote can add value so you as an employer can focus on what matters most for your business: market expansion, growth, and ultimately brand recognition and respect. 

Yes. As a general rule, all noncitizens need a work visa (and residence permit) to work and stay in Saudi Arabia. Requirements vary depending on each applicant's nationality, residence status, education and skills, and more factors. That said, an Employment visa (which entails getting a residence permit) is generally all that any noncitizen needs to work in Saudi Arabia.  

All foreigners are required to follow provisions and rules specified in Articles 48-50  of the Saudi Labor Code, including:

Securing a work permit as per form and procedures prescribed by the Saudi Minister of Labor

Obtaining the Saudi Minister of Labor's approval

Entering Saudi Arabia legally and satisfying all relevant residency conditions 

Having skills or qualifications needed in Saudi Arabia and shown to be lacking among Saudi nationals

Having an employer contract, under a Saudi or non-Saudi employer, or being independently employed

Worker requirements may vary on a case-by-case basis. 

Saudi Arabia is opening up, and more residency visas continue to be introduced, including long-stay visas such as:

Residence visa : No residence periods are specified

Premium residency visa : Granted to high-value residents who can stay and work in Saudi Arabia without work permits or sponsors

Family visit visa : Intended for family reunion purposes (no residence periods are specified)

The documentation requirements, application place, and average processing time of an Employment visa  for U.S. citizens* are as follows.

Documentation requirements

Original valid passport

Completed online application form

A visa referral note

An original employer sponsorship letter

Employment contract

Certified and notarized copy of the applicant's university degree or diploma

Certified and notarized copy of training or technical diploma

Medical report

Criminal record report

Application place

The application process can be done only through one of the following: 

The embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Washington

The embassy's authorized list of visa offices

Handling these processes can be expensive and time-consuming.

If you are planning to handle these processes yourself, it could be expensive, and time-consuming and lead to legal challenges or penalties if you're unaware of applicable laws, regulations, or rules. To hire employees abroad, your company can benefit greatly from working with an established employer of record (EOR). Learn more about how an employer of record works and when you should use one .

In a major regulatory development , Saudi Arabia abolished the Kafala system in 2021 and made it possible for workers to negotiate employment contracts and choose to leave a given employer or Saudi Arabia without prior approval from an employer (sponsor). 

This new arrangement enables employers to sponsor noncitizens directly after signing an employment contract and obtaining necessary permissions from the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Interior.

Saudi Arabia does not yet have any laws or official regulations governing how, where, or when digital nomads can work in Saudi Arabia. 

Since remote work isn't officially recognized for noncitizens, employers cannot simply hire noncitizens to work remotely under any form of employment agreement. They can only do so via an employment visa arrangement (as for U.S. citizens) or as indicated and approved by local authorities. 

Employers must be careful when hiring noncitizens to work remotely as digital nomads in Saudi Arabia. Recent labor reforms and the abolishing of the Kafala system are by no means permission to hire noncitizens remotely.

 Instead, uninitiated employers are strongly advised to seek expert legal advice to help manage remote workers, independent contractors, and digital nomads in Saudi Arabia. Reach out to Remote to manage your digital workforce and focus on what matters most to you: business growth.

The requirements for work visas and permits can get complicated for employers who want to operate legally in Saudi Arabia and hire employees and contractors. 

To complicate matters, relocating to Saudi Arabia may prove challenging to noncitizens whose cultures, professional backgrounds, or personal preferences may differ from the majority of the population. If you work with an employer of record( EOR ), it becomes much easier and quicker to hire employees abroad. Remote’s team of employment experts handles everything from onboarding, benefits, payroll, and taxes to compliance with local immigration and labor laws.

Download Remote’s Relocation Guide for insights on how you can manage the process of employee relocation. You can also contact our Mobility team , who can answer any questions you may have about the process of employing team members globally. 

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Posted on November 28 2023

Saudi Arabia announces new work visa rules 2024

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The Temporary Work Visa must be used within one year of its issue and allows foreign workers to work in KSA for up to 90 days, with the option to extend for an additional 90 days. The visa is valid for multiple entries, meaning that the employees can enter and exit the country as often as they need during the 90-day period.

Advantages of the Temporary Work Visa

One of the biggest advantages of the new visa is that it is much faster and easier to obtain in comparison with the previous Work Visit Visa, as issuing the temporary work visa is immediate and does not require any supporting documents for the employee (eg attested certificates). It is also extendable while the holder is in country. It is not restricted largely to only technical personnel (e.g., engineers) and is not in practice restricted to men (which the old Work Visit Visa were in practice). With the Kingdom experiencing record growth and hosting some of the largest projects in the world, another advantage of the visa is that it could enable greater mobility within multinational employers, in the sense of permitting non-KSA based employees to try work in the Kingdom before making a more permanent move or relocation.  

Eligibility requirements

An employer applying for a Temporary Work Visa (the application must be made through Qiwa) must meet the following conditions:

  • The establishment should have a valid Commercial Register (CR), except for activities that do not require a commercial registration;
  • The status of the establishment should be “Existing”;
  • The establishment is required to have a Nitiqat rating of medium green or higher;
  • The establishment should not have any negative remarks with regards to Wage Protection System (WPS); and
  • The establishment should have visa issuance balance.

An employer with expired pre-existing visas will have its application denied. 

If you would like further information on the Introduction of a Temporary Work Visa in KSA, please contact us.   

Sara Khoja

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What is Saudi Work Visa?

How to get a work visa saudi arabia from india, eligibility for saudi arabia work visa, when you have this visa, documents required for saudi work visa, photo specification of saudi work visa, saudi arabia work visa processing time, saudi work visa fees, how to check saudi work visa status, saudi arabia work visa for indians - definitive guide.

Due to the excellent economy, and the vast career opportunities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Work Visit Visa Saudi Arabia is one of the most sought after permits. The initiation of this visa has given plenty of people the opportunity to ply their trade in Saudi.

saudi arabia work visa

To take part in non-commercial, or non-business work-related activities in Saudi, you will require something called a Saudi work visit visa . As the name suggests, this is a visit visa and thereby is valid for a stay of up to 90 days. Alternately, as per approval by the Ministry of External Affairs in Saudi, you may receive a permit for long periods of time. Coming in the form of a sticker in the passport, this permit allows you to take part in training, internships, etc. 

To apply for the work visit permit, you will have to make the application offline. Also, the Saudi embassy does not accept applications submitted directly to them. As a result, you will have to contact a travel agency to do it for you. Before applying, you will have to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria of the work visit. After this, you can proceed as per the following - 

  • Collect all the necessary documents required for the application
  • Once you have them, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi website, and download the application form. 
  • Proceed to fill in the form. You can either type it and take a print, or print it and write it by hand. Keep in mind to affix your photographs, and sign wherever necessary.
  • Pay the visa fees to the travel agency. You cannot make direct payments to the embassy. 
  • With the application form and the documents, send it to the Saudi Embassy via the travel agent.

Please note that you fill in the correct details and that you submit the original documents. Any wrong information or fake documents can lead to visa refusal .

To be eligible to apply for this type of permit, you will have to meet the following criteria - 

  • You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the travel date. 
  • You must be sponsored by a Saudi company or organization.
  • You must possess an invitation letter from the Saudi organization attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia in Arabic.
  • Your motive behind the visit must be to take part in the work activity for technical professions such as engineering, architect, etc. 

On possession of this visa, keep in mind the following key factors - 

  • Kindly note the validity and expiry date of the visa. You must not stay back beyond the Saudi work visit visa validity .
  • Carry a copy of your passport and visa with you while you are in the country. 
  • You must not work for any other organizations or companies other than your sponsor while you are on this visa.
  • While you are in Saudi Arabia, you must abide by the Islamic rules and regulations followed in the country.

As per the Saudi Arabia work visa requirements , the following are the list of documents required for the application process - 

  • Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages. Any old passports also must be attached.
  • Invitation letter from the Saudi Arabian company that is approved by the ministry of foreign affairs, in Arabic.
  • 2 photographs. 
  • Covering letter from the Indian company on the company letterhead, along with the seal and sign, mentioning the details of the visit. These must also match with the details on the invitation letter. 
  • Original degree certificate. 
  • Copy of registration of the Saudi company in Arabic.
  • Travel insurance issued by the embassy as per your application.
  • Proof of work experience (if required)

saudi work visa photo requirements

  • 2 identical passport size photos
  • Recently taken
  • Coloured, with a white background
  • Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
  • Face should cover 80% of the photo
  • Facial expression - neutral
  • Head in a central location
  • Eyeglasses are not permitted
  • Headwear - permitted in case of religious reasons

Since this type of visa is simpler and faster, you can expect it to be issued in about 4-5 working days. However, depending on a few factors such as the number of entries, attestation and stamping of documents, the volume of applications, etc, this may take longer. 

The fees for the application process is a variable and depends on factors such as the number of entries, travel agency charges, and a few others. The charges for the travel insurance will be confirmed after the application submission. As a result, it is important to confirm the exact fees before applying.

After the submission of your application, you will receive your visa via your travel agent. In the meanwhile, you can check the status of your application by contacting the same, or by emailing the Saudi embassy. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i extend my saudi arabia work visa.

Yes, you can most certainly extend your visa. In most cases, you can get an extension up to the total duration of your current permit. If the visa is of 90 days, you can get up to another 90 days. However, keep in mind that you will have to apply for it at least a week before your current visa expires and you can only stay in the country for a maximum of 180 days as a visitor.

After Expiring My Saudi Arabia Work Visa How Long Can I Stay?

You cannot stay in the country for even a single day after your visa expires. You are expected to leave the country before or on the day your permit expires. Staying back beyond this period is considered as an offence and may attract hefty fines and deportation.

What is the Medical Test for Saudi Arabia Work Visa?

Similar to other visit visas, the work visit permit also does not require a mandatory medical test. However, the other longer permits require mandatory medical certificates to be presented. Either way, it is recommended that you get a medical test done for the safety of your own and the people in Saudi Arabia.

Can I Convert My Saudi Arabia Work Visa into Saudi Tourist Visa?

No, you cannot convert a work visit permit into a tourist permit. In fact, you do not need a tourist visa at all. With the work permit, you are also permitted to take part in sight-seeing and other tourism activities. However, if you still want to obtain a tourist visa, you will have to leave the country and go back to your home country, and then apply for it from there.

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Requirements:

  • Original passport valid for no less than six (6) months, with at least two (2) successive empty visa pages
  • To fill your online application, please log on to  https://visa.mofa.gov.sa .  ( Guideline for Enjaz ) .  Be sure to choose “single entry”
  • Digital power of attorney from the Saudi employer generated by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • A visa referral note, indicating number and date of visa, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or either of its branches in Jeddah or Dammam
  • Original letter from the Saudi company sponsoring the applicant, certified by both the Saudi Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  Letter  MUST  indicate block visa number, date, position and name of applicant. In the event of submitting the letter through an embassy-approved visa service agency, the letter should include language authorizing the agency to finalize all visa requirements
  • A copy of employment contract, signed by the sponsor and the applicant, and certified by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • A certified and notarized copy of the applicant’s university degree/diploma, which MUST be authenticated by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (Tel. (703) 573-7226 or (571) 327-2522) 
  • A certified and notarized copy of the training or technical diploma authenticated by the U.S. Department of State.  Diplomas must also be notarized by a Saudi Arabian Consulate in the United States. Notarization fee is $8.00 (eight dollars) per page, payable to “The Embassy of Saudi Arabia.” Cash and personal checks are not accepted.
  • Diplomas issued by academic institutions outside the United States must be certified by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission and the Saudi Arabian Embassy in the issuing country .
  • A  medical report  in three copies, along with all lab results, and three (3) passport size colored photographs on white background.  Medical report must be issued by a licensed physician certifying the applicant is free of contagious diseases. Physician must sign each copy of the medical report indicating their license number and address. Medical reports must be no more than  three (3) months  past the date of issuance.
  • Children under the age of sixteen (16) do not need a medical report.
  • Police report, issued within  six (6) months  prior to the date of application, with detailed information about applicant’s criminal record, if any.  

You May Also Apply For the Visa by: 

  • Applying in person at the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Via Mail to the Embassy's address: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20037.
  • Through the Embassy's authorized travel agencies .

Saudi Arabia Visas
& Permits.

Country capital, saudi riyal (sr) (sar).

If your company is planning to expand operations into Saudi Arabia, you’ll need a talented team of employees. It is important to know how to get work visas and residency permits for any employees who will be making the move with you, whether you’re planning to relocate existing team members or recruit new employees abroad.

Types of Work Visas in Saudi Arabia

Anyone who wishes to enter Saudi Arabia will require a visa, with the exception of citizens of countries that are members of The Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. These members include the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, and Kuwait.

There are three types of visas in Saudi Arabia:

  • Employment visas
  • Business visit visas
  • Family visit or residence visas

This guide will focus on employment visas, as these will be necessary for any employees who will be staying in Saudi Arabia on a long-term basis.

Requirements to Obtain Saudi Arabia Work Visas

To obtain a visa, employees will need to have a sponsor in Saudi Arabia. The sponsoring employer is responsible for most of the application process, but the prospective employee will need to supply all the necessary documents.

The following documents are required to obtain an employment visa:

  • A passport that will be valid for the duration of employment
  • A passport-sized photograph, in color
  • Proof of online payment of the visa fee through the Enjazit website
  • A completed visa application
  • Three copies of a signed medical report
  • A letter of employment from the sponsoring company in Saudi Arabia, which must be certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce
  • A signed copy of the employment contract
  • A certified copy of the applicant’s university diploma, which must be validated by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission
  • A police report of any criminal record
  • An addressed, prepaid envelope

Application Process

The employer must begin the work visa application process. Here are the necessary steps to obtain a visa and residency permit in Saudi Arabia:

  • The sponsoring employer must register with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior.
  • The Ministry will open an immigration file with information regarding all of the employer’s expatriate workers.
  • The employer will lodge an application for a work visa with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Labor.
  • Once the application is approved, the Ministry of Labor will notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Within two weeks, the Ministry of Foreign affairs will issue a Visa Authorization Number.
  • The employee will submit their employment visa application to the relevant Saudi Arabian embassy, along with the documents listed above.
  • The embassy will issue the visa within one to three weeks, at which point the employee can travel to Saudi Arabia.
  • In Saudi Arabia, the employee must apply for a residency permit, or Iqama, through the Ministry of Labor.
  • The Ministry of Labor will forward the approved application to the Ministry of Interior, where the Iqama will be issued through the Directorate General for Passports.

Employees should carry their Iqama at all times in order to prove that they are legally allowed to live and work in Saudi Arabia.

If the employee would like to travel in and out of Saudi Arabia during the duration of their employment, they will need to apply for an Exit/Re-Entry Permit through the Ministry of Interior. This permit is generally issued within one week.

Other Important Considerations

Employees should be aware that the authorities in Saudi Arabia are very strict. Behavior or appearance that is deemed inappropriate may result in denial of entry into the country or deportation. Examples of unacceptable conduct include public displays of affection, men exposing their legs by wearing shorts, and women wearing clothing that is too tight or thin, exposing their hair, or wearing makeup.

All visitors to Saudi Arabia should also be aware of the tenets and philosophies of Islam, which is the only religion that may be celebrated publicly in Saudi Arabia. The  Mutawwa’in,  the religious police in Saudi Arabia, will strictly enforce these standards throughout the country.

If any employees plan to bring spouses or children to Saudi Arabia, they will need to obtain family visit visas.

Learn More About G-P

Need to onboard international employees right now? We can help with your global hiring needs. Contact us and request a proposal.

For this particular location, G-P may offer support processing certain work visas and permits. Contact us today to assess your specific needs.

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). G-P does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect G-P’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. G-P makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

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Tips for Employers

A guide on new temporary work visa of saudi arabia.

October 23, 2023

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In response to the burgeoning demand for skilled short-term workers and as a strategic move in tandem with the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030 and related projects, Saudi Arabia has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative a new temporary work visa. This visa is not merely a response to current workforce requirements but is part of a broader vision to propel the nation’s development forward.

Previous Limitations of the Saudi Work Visas

Here are some key points, which differentiate previous Saudi Work Visa options with new one’s by providing more value:

  • Before this development, international workers had limited options, primarily the Work Visit Visa.
  • The Work Visit Visa was tailored mainly for technical and specialized job roles.
  • Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive approach, the new temporary work visa has been introduced.
  • The new visa is designed to cover a spectrum of occupations, providing a more inclusive framework.
  • It offers opportunities for individuals seeking short-term employment in the kingdom.

Saudi Work Visa Application and Validity

Sponsors eligibility.

  • Eligible sponsors are Saudi businesses or legal entities with distinct legal existence.
  • This encompasses sole proprietorships in Saudi Arabia, branches of larger corporations, or independent companies.
  • The exclusion of direct applications from individuals shifts responsibility to these Saudi entities.
  • Ensures a more structured and accountable sponsorship process.

Validity of Temporary Saudi Work Visa:

Summery  for preparedness, '' it is imperative to stay abreast of any alterations or modifications to the visa requirements, ensuring that all the necessary documentation is in place before initiating the application process. '' , connect with #1 visa consultants for saudi arabia.

Tips for Employers : A Guide on New Temporary Work Visa of Saudi Arabia

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Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia Introduces Temporary Work Visit Visa

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  • The Saudi government has created a new short-term work visa for certain foreign nationals
  • Qualified employees may work in Saudi Arabia for a visa-sponsoring entity up to 90 days per year
  • Multiple entries are permitted with the Temporary Work Visit Visa
  • Employers must be classified as "medium-green" in the Nitaqat scheme, comply with obligations in the Wages Protection System, and ensure foreign workers have valid work authorization
  • The visa quota is limited to 50 visas per employer
  • Visas are non-transferrable to other entities
  • Applicants may obtain a visa from a Saudi consular post or visa agent abroad

The Saudi Arabian government has created a new short-term work visa for eligible foreign nationals.

What are the Changes?

Saudi Arabia's new visa, called the Temporary Work Visit Visa, allows temporary work in Saudi Arabia under certain conditions. The visa allows foreign nationals to conduct work in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days each year, provided they work for a visa-sponsoring entity. The visa also permits multiple entries.

What Should Employers and Applicants Know?

Employers must meet certain eligibility criteria to qualify for the new visa quota. Employers must be classified at the "medium-green" level in the Nitaqat scheme. They must also comply with obligations in the Wages Protection System, and they must ensure that their foreign workers have valid work authorization.

Eligible employers may obtain a visa quota through the Qiwa portal. Each employer may receive up to 50 visas. The visa is valid for one year, and it cannot be transferred to other employers. Applicants must obtain their visa from a Saudi consular post or visa agent abroad.

Originally published February 25, 2021

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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Saudi Arabia Work Visas & Permits

Is your organization planning an expansion into the Middle Eastern country of Saudi Arabia? If so, then you will probably be looking to bring along at least some employees from abroad to help with the operation. To accomplish this step of the expansion process effectively, every employee will need a Saudi Arabia work visa.

With Saudi Arabia’s strict immigration laws, different language, and unique administrative procedures, it can be difficult to get all of your employees’ work visas in place for your expansion. However, if you fail to prepare properly, you may encounter rejections and costly delays to your expansion efforts.

At Horizons, our expansion experts offer a comprehensive selection of Saudi Arabia work visa services, immigration support, and outsourcing solutions to help you hire foreign employees in Saudi Arabia compliantly and efficiently.

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Standard requirements for Saudi Arabia work visas

Citizens of countries belonging to the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (also known as the Gulf Cooperation Council) can generally  enter Saudi Arabia  visa-free. Nationals of any other countries, however, will need a visa for Saudi Arabia.

When applying for a Saudi Arabia work permit, the exact requirements can vary on a case-by-case basis. However, there are some standard requirements that all applicants will need:

  • An official contract of employment
  • Valid passport
  • Application form
  • Application fees
  • Medical check
  • Proof of qualifications/work experience
  • Criminal record check

Types of Saudi Arabia visas

The two main types of visas for business purposes are employment visas and business visit visas. Of these, your employees will need employment visas if they wish to stay and work in Saudi Arabia beyond the short-term.

How to get a Saudi Arabia work visa

To obtain a work visa for Saudi Arabia, you, the employer, will need to handle the majority of the application process. Firstly, you will need to register officially with the Saudi Government (the Ministry of Interior specifically). When registered, you should file a Saudi Arabia work visa application with the Ministry of Labor, which should be processed within two weeks. Once approved, the employee can file their application with their local Saudi embassy/consulate.

When the employee’s visa is approved (which can take several weeks), they can travel to Saudi Arabia. In Saudi Arabia, they will need to apply for an Iqama (residency permit) via the Ministry of Labor.

Additional considerations

Employees should be careful to always carry their Iqama (residency permit) with them while in Saudi Arabia, as it may be checked at any time. Also, it is important to note that anybody wishing to leave and re-enter the country will need a re-entry permit, which can be accessed via the Ministry of Interior.

Finally, foreign employees will need to be aware of the cultural differences present in Saudi Arabia. As a strongly Muslim country, there are many strict laws and customs that employees should abide by. For example, conservative clothing should be worn at all times, public affection is banned, and women are generally expected to wear religious clothing such as a hijab. These rules, among others, are very strictly enforced, so should be followed.

How can Horizons help?

At Horizons, our expansion specialists help businesses expand to Saudi Arabia by ensuring they understand the immigration rules and can obtain all the necessary visas for their employees. Our experts offer advice and custom outsourcing services to support you through the country’s complex visa application process. We can ensure that you and your foreign employees are in full compliance with Saudi Arabia’s strict immigration and employment regulations, speed up the expansion process, and provide answers to any queries you might have about visas.

In addition, we offer comprehensive outsourcing solutions to cover recruitment, payroll, HR, administration, and more to help your company start trading and expanding in Saudi Arabia, even if you don’t have an official subsidiary in the country.

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What you need to know about Saudi Arabia's new visa rules

Gcc residents can now apply for e-visas, while travellers from the us, the uk and the eu can receive visas on arrival.

Abundant marine life in the Red Sea. Photos: Saudi Tourism Authority

Abundant marine life in the Red Sea. Photos: Saudi Tourism Authority

Selina Denman author image

Saudi Arabia has updated its entry rules to make the country more accessible to visitors .

A new decree signed by the country's Minister of Tourism allows GCC residents to apply for e-visas through the dedicated online portal, www.visitsaudi.com/visa, and makes it easier for travellers from the UK, the US and the EU to enter the kingdom.

“Tourism bridges cultures and connects communities, it provides opportunities and uplifts neighbourhoods, and I am proud to lead the ministry as we build this future together,” said Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism.

New entry rules for GCC travellers

The site of the $500bn Neom project in the Tabuk Province of northwestern Saudi Arabia. Photo: SCTH

The site of the $500bn Neom project in the Tabuk Province of northwestern Saudi Arabia. Photo: SCTH

In order to be eligible for an e-visa, visitors must have a residence visa issued by a GCC country with validity of at least three months, and a passport that is valid for more than six months. Applicants must also be employed in specific occupations, which are listed on the portal.

Single-entry visas are valid for three months and multiple-entry visas last for one year. The single-entry option allows travellers to stay in Saudi Arabia for a maximum of one month, while there is a 90-day length of stay for multiple-entry visas. Applicants cannot specify which option they want — this will be decided on a case by case basis by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This e-visa allows holders to perform Umrah outside of Hajj season, as declared by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims hoping to perform Hajj will still need to apply for special visas through their nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.

For children under the age of 18, parents are required to apply for their e-visa first and then reapply for minors. The cost per application is 300 Saudi riyals ($80), plus the cost of valid health insurance.

Other countries eligible for eVisas

New Zealand

South Korea

Rules for US, UK and EU travellers

As part of Saudi Arabia’s new entry rules, residents of the US, the UK and the EU can apply for a visa on arrival. Applicants must hold a permanent residence permit from the US, the UK or an EU country, and a passport that is valid for more than six months. Visas will be granted on arrival at all of Saudi Arabia’s air, sea and land ports.

The cost per application is 300 Saudi riyals, plus the cost of valid health insurance. Again, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will decide on a case by case basis whether to grant single or multiple-entry visas. Validity and duration of stay is the same as for GCC visitors.

Holders of US, UK or Schengen visas, whether for business or tourist purposes, can also enter Saudi Arabia without needing to apply in advance, as long as the visa has already been used at least once and has an entry stamp from the issuing country.

As with GCC visitors, this visa allows holders to perform Umrah outside of Hajj season.

Visas issued by embassies

All other nationalities must acquire their visa through their nearest Saudi embassy. In order to apply, potential visitors must supply proof of accommodation, a return ticket, proof of employment, a flight itinerary, complete personal information, including a home address and a bank statement as proof of financial solvency.

Scroll through the gallery below to see seven remarkable hotels due to open in Saudi Arabia soon

A bird's-eye view of the internal patio at Sharaah by Jean Nouvel. Photo: Jean Nouvel

A bird's-eye view of the internal patio at Sharaah by Jean Nouvel. Photo: Jean Nouvel

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  1. Work Visit Visa

    Visa fees must be paid online through Enjaz website www.enjazit.com.sa or through any of the Visa Offices Registered with Enjaz. The visa fee is $108.00 for U.S. passport holders, for both single and multiple entries. For non-U.S. citizens, the visa fee is $54.00 for a single entry and $134.00 for multiple entries.

  2. Work Visits Visa

    An e-service provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Ministry's electronic visa services website, which enables applicants to request approval for two categories of visits to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first category, known as 'Individual' visits, covers all visa services aimed at individuals based abroad looking to work in the kingdom, while the second category ...

  3. Work permits and visas in Saudi Arabia: an employer's guide

    As a general rule, all noncitizens need a work visa (and residence permit) to work and stay in Saudi Arabia. Requirements vary depending on each applicant's nationality, residence status, education and skills, and more factors. That said, an Employment visa (which entails getting a residence permit) is generally all that any noncitizen needs to ...

  4. Saudi Arabia announces new work visa rules 2024

    Read More. Saudi Arabia introduced new work visa rules for 2024. The minimum age to obtain a work visa in Saudi Arabia is 24. The Ministry of Human Resources announced Musaned, which will bring transparency to the recruitment process of foreign workers.

  5. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia introduces new work visa

    Legal Development 23 May 2023. Middle East. Top workplace issues. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has recently introduced a new work visa, known as the "Temporary Work Visa", which replaces the previous "Work Visit Visa". The new visa is aimed at making it easier for businesses to bring in foreign workers for short-term assignments and should ...

  6. Saudi Arabia Work Visa For Indians

    Saudi Work Visa Fees. The fees for the application process is a variable and depends on factors such as the number of entries, travel agency charges, and a few others. The charges for the travel insurance will be confirmed after the application submission. As a result, it is important to confirm the exact fees before applying.

  7. Employment Visa

    A certified and notarized copy of the training or technical diploma authenticated by the U.S. Department of State. Diplomas must also be notarized by a Saudi Arabian Consulate in the United States. Notarization fee is $8.00 (eight dollars) per page, payable to "The Embassy of Saudi Arabia.". Cash and personal checks are not accepted.

  8. Work Visit Visa

    Work Visit Visa. 1. Invitation letter duly attested by the Saudi chamber of commerce in the Performa approved by the Saudi Foreign Ministry. 2. Original of Contract for temporary work under the applicants name signed by the sponsoring company and the applicant. The work period shown in the contract should be match to the period in the visa ...

  9. Getting a work visa in Saudi Arabia

    Work visit visa. This visa theoretically allows employees from foreign businesses to work temporarily in Saudi Arabia, for a period of 30 to 90 days. In October 2019, the Saudi government suspended work visit visas. It is anticipated that the government will introduce a new temporary work visa in the coming months (December 2019).

  10. Saudi Arabia Introduces Temporary Work Visit Visa

    The Saudi government has created a new short-term work visa for certain foreign nationals. Qualified employees may work in Saudi Arabia for a visa-sponsoring entity up to 90 days per year. Multiple entries are permitted with the Temporary Work Visit Visa. Employers must be classified as "medium-green" in the Nitaqat scheme, comply with ...

  11. Saudi Arabia Work Visa: How to Obtain Your Saudi Employment Visa?

    Saudi Arabia work visa fees. ... (KSA) has introduced a new work visa, known as a temporary work visa, replacing its previous work visit visa. The Temporary Work Visa is valid for one year from its issuance. It grants foreign workers the opportunity to work in KSA for a maximum of 90 days, with the possibility of a 90-day extension. ...

  12. Saudi Arabia: New Rules Issued Regulating Foreign National Residency Visas

    During January 2024, Saudi authorities issued new rules related to requirements for obtaining the Special Talent Residency Visa, Premium Residency Visa, and Exit-Entry Work Residency Visa.Requirements for the Special Talent Residency VisaOn January 22, 2024, the Saudi Premium Residency Center announced new expertise requirements for eligibility to obtain Special Talent Residency Visas.The ...

  13. Work Visa Requirements in Saudi Arabia

    A completed visa application. Three copies of a signed medical report. A letter of employment from the sponsoring company in Saudi Arabia, which must be certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce. A signed copy of the employment contract. A certified copy of the applicant's university diploma, which must be ...

  14. A Guide on New Temporary Work Visa of Saudi Arabia

    Validity of Temporary Saudi Work Visa: The visa is good for one year initially, which is a big change from before. But, companies can ask for more time if they need it. They can get extensions for up to 90 days at a time during the year. This makes it easier to adjust to changes in project schedules and the needs of the workforce.

  15. Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia Introduces Temporary Work Visit Visa

    The Saudi government has created a new short-term work visa for certain foreign nationals. Qualified employees may work in Saudi Arabia for a visa-sponsoring entity up to 90 days per year. Multiple entries are permitted with the Temporary Work Visit Visa. Employers must be classified as "medium-green" in the Nitaqat scheme, comply with ...

  16. Office Authorization on work visa

    Service Description. This service aims to request authorization on work visa to bring in people from outside. The time required to implement the service: 1 business days. NOTE: In exceptional cases, execution of the request may be delayed due to some additional actions .

  17. Temporary Work Visa in Saudi Arabia: All You Need to Know

    A temporary work visa is a type of visa that allows foreign workers to work in Saudi Arabia for a limited period of time. The Qiwa portal of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has published the details of its Temporary Work Visa program. This program is designed to provide private firms with the ...

  18. Saudi Arabia Work Visas & Work Permits [Best Guide]

    Nationals of any other countries, however, will need a visa for Saudi Arabia. When applying for a Saudi Arabia work permit, the exact requirements can vary on a case-by-case basis. However, there are some standard requirements that all applicants will need: An official contract of employment. Valid passport. Application form.

  19. Home

    The primary purpose of this visa type is to make it easier for employers to allow their foreign employees to work in Saudi Arabia. Temporary work visas are valid for one year from the date of issuance. ... There are four packages available when purchasing temporary work visas: 1 visa costs 1,000 SAR. 5 visas cost 4,850 SAR. 10 visas cost 9,300 SAR.

  20. Work Visa

    2. Electronic Authority Letter issued by Saudi sponsor. 3. Fill up the application Form & attach 2 photographs with White background. 4. One copy of Medical Report 5. Degree duly attested by the concerned authorities in case of Technical Category. . kingdom of Saudi arabia | Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

  21. Work Visit Visa

    Work Visit Visa. 1. Invitation letter duly attested by the Saudi chamber of commerce in the Performa approved by the Saudi Foreign Ministry. 2. Original of Contract for temporary work under the applicants name signed by the sponsoring company and the applicant. The work period shown in the contract should be match to the period in the visa ...

  22. What you need to know about Saudi Arabia's new visa rules

    Rules for US, UK and EU travellers. As part of Saudi Arabia's new entry rules, residents of the US, the UK and the EU can apply for a visa on arrival. Applicants must hold a permanent residence permit from the US, the UK or an EU country, and a passport that is valid for more than six months. Visas will be granted on arrival at all of Saudi ...

  23. Work Visa or Temporary Work Visa

    Foreign degrees must be stamped from the embassy of Saudi Arabia in the country of issue. Check with your employer if you need to have your degrees stamped by the Saudi Cultural Bureau ( www.saudibureau.org ). c- A completed copy of the CV application form. 10- Medical report: Original copy stamped by the college of physicians.