Saudi Arabia has become in the past years a true powerhouse when it comes to hospitality recruitment thanks to the several new high end hotels, restaurants and retail stores that have recently opened or that are about to open. This makes a great opportunity for you to find work but then comes the question how do I obtain a visa to work in Saudi Arabia ? Well, this is why this article is here I’m going to walk you through all the necessary procedures and paperwork to obtain a work visa (or Iqama) in Saudi Arabia
Obtaining a Saudi work visa
The first step is obtaining an Iqama (or residence visa) is to secure a Saudi work visa, this type of visa is valid for a duration of 90 days during which you’re required to make your Iqama demand.
All the paperwork for this visa is to be done by your employer but you will need to provide some documents in order to be eligible for the visa such as :
- An university degree or any technical or training diploma
- A police report of the last 6 months
- A passeport with a validity of at least 6 months upon reaching Saudi soil
- A sponsorship from your employer
- A work contract signed by both your employer and yourself
- Three copies of a medical report no older than 3 months
- A proof of purchase for the Saudi medical insurance
- A recent colored photo on white background
Once you’ve compiled all those documents, your employer can put in the demand on your behalf at the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Labor.
If and when the application is validated by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Labor you will be given a visa authorization number by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) as well as a visa referral note that states your visa number and date.
The last step for you then will be to fill out your work visa application on the MOFA portal and file said application and documents to your nearest Saudi embassy or representation office abroad to obtain your work visa.
Obtaining your Saudi residence permit or Iqama
First it is crucial to understand why do you need an Iqama, the reason is really easy. As a foreign national your Iqama is what gives you access to everything from housing to banking or mobility, without your Iqama you really can’t do nothing on Saudi soil.
Now let’s see how to obtain your Iqama, the initial demand will be done by your employer but you will still need to provide a few documents like your employement contract and sponsorship letter.
You will also need to undergo a medical examination at a certified center to make sure that you are free of any infectious disease.
Once you’re proven to be in good health and your application has been validated by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Labor or the MOFA you will be needed to provide fingerprints and photographs in order to collect your Iqama in the few days to come.
It is of upmost importance that you obtain your Iqama during the duration of your work visa or you might face legal actions going as far as deportation. Similarly you must always have your Iqama on you and if your were to lose it or have it stolen you must inform the local authorities as soon as possible.
Lastly, your Iqama is tied to your employer, if you are to change employer you will need to make a new Iqama demand with your new employer.
Interested in working in Middle East countries? We’ve got you covered! Find our latest post regarding work visas in Dubai
