Saudi Arabia Work Visa (Iqama) – A Simple Guide
Who Can Apply?
You can apply for a Saudi work visa (also called Iqama) only if you have a confirmed job offer from a registered Saudi employer.
Key Requirements
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Attested educational certificates (degree/diploma)
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Police clearance certificate (to prove no criminal record)
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Medical certificate (to show you’re free from infectious diseases)
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Passport valid for more than 12 months
Step-by-Step Process
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Employer gets approval (Block Visa)
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Online application submission
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Medical tests and police clearance
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Visa stamping at the Saudi Embassy
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Travel to Saudi Arabia
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Iqama (residence permit) issued after arrival
Timeline
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Processing time: 2–4 weeks
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Visa validity: Usually 1–2 years
Fees
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Visa fee: Around SAR 2,400 (approx. ₹55,000) for 2 years
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Other costs: Medical, attestation, travel, etc.
Types of Work Visas
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Work Visa (Iqama): For full-time jobs
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Temporary Work Visa: For short projects (3, 6, 9 months)
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Internship Visa: For students or fresh graduates
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Domestic Worker Visa: For hiring drivers, maids, etc.
Documents You’ll Need
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Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
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Attested educational documents
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Police clearance
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Medical report
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Recent passport-size photos
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Signed job contract (in Arabic)
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Visa application form
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Employer’s documents: registration, sponsorship letter, license
Employer’s Responsibilities
1. Get a Block Visa
This allows your employer to legally hire foreign workers.
They need to:
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Be a registered company
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Have a labor license
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Get quota approval from the Ministry of Labor
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Pay visa fee (SAR 2,000 per worker)
2. Apply for Electronic Work Visa
Once the block visa is approved, your employer submits your job details and documents online.
Your Responsibilities After Approval
1. Medical Test
You’ll need to get tested at an approved clinic for:
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HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Malaria
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Chest X-ray for TB
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Any other tests required
2. Apply for the Visa
Apply at the Saudi Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Documents Required:
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Passport
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Photos
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Medical report
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Attested degrees
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Job contract
Interview (If Needed)
You may be called for an interview at the Saudi embassy. Be ready to:
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Talk about your job and qualifications
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Show basic knowledge about Saudi laws and culture
Dress formally.
After You Enter Saudi Arabia
1. Iqama Issuance
Your employer will apply for your Iqama (residency card).
Needed:
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Passport
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Visa
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Health insurance
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Fingerprints (done at a center)
Iqama is valid for 1–2 years and must be renewed by your employer before expiry.
Life After Getting Iqama
1. Register Your Address
Visit your local municipality office with:
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Iqama
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Rental agreement or proof of home ownership
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Utility bills
2. Open a Bank Account
To get your salary, you’ll need:
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Iqama
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Passport
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Proof of address
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Letter from employer (sometimes)
Useful Tips
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Always stay updated: Rules can change, so check official Saudi websites regularly.
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Have valid health insurance: Mandatory by law.
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Respect local culture: Know and follow Saudi customs and dress codes.
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Emergency? Call 911 in Saudi Arabia. You should also have your embassy’s contact number.
Bringing Family with You
You can sponsor family (spouse, kids, sometimes parents) if your salary is SAR 5,000 or more.
What you’ll need:
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Marriage/birth certificates
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Health insurance for dependents
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Local registration
Iqama Renewal & Cancellation
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Renewal: Done by employer through an online portal.
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Cancellation: If you leave the job, your Iqama is cancelled, and you must leave Saudi Arabia within the allowed period.
COVID-19 Rules & Travel Tips
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Check travel updates: Visit Saudi MOH (www.moh.gov.sa) and MOI (www.moi.gov.sa).
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Get health insurance that covers COVID-19
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PCR tests: May be required before and after arrival
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Vaccination: Fully vaccinated travelers may need to show certificates
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Tawakkalna App: You may need it for health status and location tracking
Where to Apply
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Saudi Embassy or Consulate in your home country
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Online portals:
Common Questions
Q: Do I need to speak Arabic?
A: Not always. English is often used at work. It depends on your job.
Q: Can I send money home?
A: Yes, Saudi allows remittances. Just check with your bank for the best method.
Q: What is the Saudi weekend?
A: Friday and Saturday. Workdays are Sunday to Thursday.
Q: Can I own a car?
A: Yes. You need a Saudi driving license and insurance.
Q: What about housing?
A: Some companies provide accommodation, others give a housing allowance.
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Yes. Dress modestly in public. Women should cover hair and wear abayas.
Q: Can I follow my religion?
A: You can practice privately, but public religious activities (other than Islam) are restricted.
Q: How do I access healthcare?
A: Use your Iqama and health insurance for private/public healthcare.
Q: How do I talk to family back home?
A: Apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and Skype work—but check which VoIP services are allowed.
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