Saudi Arabia Work Visa Process September 2025: Types, Requirements and Application Guide. If you are planning to work in Saudi Arabia in 2025, you must obtain a valid work visa before entering the country. Saudi Arabia offers a structured visa process to allow skilled and unskilled workers to join industries such as healthcare, construction, oil and gas, IT, education, and more.
This guide explains the Saudi Arabia work visa process step by step, from receiving a job offer to arriving in the Kingdom. The article is written in simple English for easy understanding.
Why Choose Saudi Arabia for Work
Saudi Arabia is a popular destination for overseas workers from Asia and Africa due to several advantages:
- Tax-free salaries
- Free accommodation and transportation for many jobs
- Job opportunities in multiple industries
- Long-term contracts
- High demand for skilled workers
- Career growth opportunities
- Return air tickets in many employment contracts
These benefits make Saudi Arabia an attractive option for professionals seeking employment abroad.
Types of Saudi Arabia Work Visas
Saudi Arabia issues several types of work-related visas:
- Work Visa (Iqama-based): For long-term employment.
- Short-term Work Visa: For assignments less than 90 days.
- Business Visa: For meetings, conferences, and short business activities (not for employment).
- Seasonal Visa: For Hajj and Umrah-related jobs.
This article focuses mainly on the Iqama-based work visa, which is required for regular employment in Saudi Arabia.
Requirements for Saudi Work Visa
To apply for a Saudi work visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- A valid job offer from a Saudi employer.
- The offered job should match your qualifications.
- Age between 21 and 55 years (typically).
- No criminal record.
- Good health condition.
- Not blacklisted or previously banned from Saudi Arabia.
Documents Needed for a Saudi Work Visa
Applicants must submit the following documents to the Saudi embassy or authorized visa center:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and blank pages.
- Passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Employment offer or contract, attested by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Visa authorization number and Block Visa number issued by Saudi authorities.
- Educational certificates attested by the Saudi Embassy and home country authorities.
- Medical report showing no communicable diseases (from an authorized hospital).
- Police clearance certificate for a clean criminal record.
- Visa application form, completed and signed.
- Visa processing fees as required by the embassy.
Note: Certain professions like engineers, doctors, and teachers may require additional qualifications or licenses.
Step-by-Step Saudi Work Visa Process
Step 1: Get a Job Offer
First, receive a job offer from a Saudi company or government-approved organization. The employer must be legally registered in Saudi Arabia and authorized to hire foreign workers.
Step 2: Employer Applies for Visa Authorization
The employer requests visa authorization from the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, confirming that the position cannot be filled by a Saudi national.
Step 3: Receive Visa Authorization Number
After approval, the employer will send you a Visa Authorization Number and a Block Visa Number, needed to apply at the embassy.
Step 4: Submit Visa Application
Apply for a work visa at the Saudi Embassy or authorized visa agent in your home country with all required documents.
Step 5: Medical Examination
Undergo a medical check at an authorized hospital, including blood tests, chest X-ray, and infectious disease screening. The medical report is sent to the embassy for approval.
Step 6: Visa Stamping
Once documents and medical checks are verified, the visa is stamped in your passport. The work visa is usually valid for 90 days single entry.
Step 7: Travel to Saudi Arabia
Book your flight to Saudi Arabia. Depending on the contract, your employer may provide air tickets and airport pickup.
Step 8: Obtain Iqama (Residence Permit)
Upon arrival, your employer applies for the Iqama, which is your legal residence and work permit in Saudi Arabia. Required documents include:
- Medical report (from Saudi hospital)
- Employment contract
- Passport copy
- Visa information
- Photo
Step 9: Post-Arrival Formalities
After Iqama issuance, complete additional formalities:
- Fingerprinting at the Ministry of Interior
- Health insurance registration
- Open a bank account
- SIM card registration
- Registration on the Absher portal for government services
Validity and Renewal
- The work visa allows entry for 90 days.
- After Iqama issuance, the visa becomes a work permit.
- Iqama is usually valid for 1–2 years and can be renewed by the employer.
- Changing jobs requires approval and an NOC from the current employer.
Common Professions in Demand
- Construction workers
- Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
- Drivers
- Nurses and healthcare staff
- IT specialists
- Teachers and professors
- Accountants and finance staff
- Housekeeping and cleaning staff
- Heavy machinery operators
FAQs About Saudi Arabia work visa
Q1: Is a medical test mandatory?
Yes, the medical check is required at an authorized hospital before visa issuance.
Q2: Can a visit visa be converted into a work visa?
No, you must apply for a work visa from your home country.
Q3: How long does the process take?
Typically 2–6 weeks depending on employer approval, medical results, and embassy processing.
Q4: Can my family come with me?
Family can join only after Iqama issuance, via family residence or visit visa.
Q5: What is Iqama?
Iqama is your residence and work permit in Saudi Arabia. It is mandatory for legal stay, employment, and government services.
Conclusion
The Saudi Arabia work visa process August 2025 is clear and structured, requiring a job offer, employer authorization, embassy submission, medical tests, and post-arrival formalities. By following these steps carefully and preparing all documents, applicants can secure their work visa and start working legally in Saudi Arabia.
