Saudi Arabia Work Visa Process 2025: Full Guide to Eligibility, Documents & Application

Barjasta TVMay 29, 2025

0 50 4 minutes read

Saudi Arabia remains one of the most sought-after destinations for foreign workers, with major developments in construction, oil & gas, healthcare, education, and the Saudi Vision 2030 reforms. If you’re planning to work in Saudi Arabia in 2025, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Saudi work visa process, eligibility, documents required, and how to apply.

What is a Saudi Work Visa?

A Saudi work visa is an official permit issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) that allows foreign nationals to enter the Kingdom for employment purposes. It is arranged by a Saudi employer and later converted into a residency permit (Iqama) once the worker arrives in the country.

Types of Work-Related Visas in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers several types of work-related visas:

Employment Visa (Work Visa) – for those with a job offer from a Saudi company.
Temporary Work Visa – for short-term assignments (up to 1 year).
Visit Visa for Business – for meetings, negotiations, or short-term projects.
Seasonal Work Visa – mainly for specific times like Hajj/Umrah periods.
Premium Residency Visa (Green Card-like) – for highly skilled individuals and investors (not linked to employer sponsorship).

Saudi Arabia Work Visa Eligibility Criteria (2025)

To qualify for a Saudi work visa, you must meet these conditions:

Have a valid job offer from a licensed Saudi company.
Possess the required educational/professional qualifications.
Be between 21 to 55 years old (some exceptions apply).
Pass a medical examination in an authorized clinic.
Have a clean police record (PCC – Police Clearance Certificate).
Your profession must be on the list of approved occupations.

Required Documents for Saudi Work Visa

Here are the documents required for applying for a Saudi employment visa in 2025:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, with at least 2 blank pages)
Job offer letter from Saudi employer (attested by Saudi Chamber of Commerce & MOFA)
Work visa application form
Photographs (white background, passport size)
Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from your home country
Medical report from an authorized medical center (GAMCA or similar)
Educational certificates (attested by home country authorities, Saudi embassy, and MOFA)
Employment contract (signed by both parties)
Visa block number (issued by MOFA to the employer)
Company documents (CR, GOSI, Chamber of Commerce registration, etc. – handled by employer)

Step-by-Step Saudi Arabia Work Visa Process (2025)

Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a Saudi Employer

Secure employment from a Saudi-registered company. The employer will initiate the visa process through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Step 2: Employer Applies for Visa Authorization

The employer applies for a Visa Block Number through MOFA. This allows them to bring foreign workers for specific roles.

Step 3: Documents Attestation

All educational and experience certificates must be attested by:

Notary Public (Home Country)
Ministry of External Affairs (Home Country)
Saudi Embassy in your country
MOFA in Saudi Arabia

Step 4: Medical Examination

You must undergo a medical test from a Saudi-approved clinic (GAMCA or embassy panel). The report is electronically sent to Saudi authorities.

Step 5: Visa Stamping

Once your documents and medical reports are approved, your passport is submitted to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate for visa stamping. This is handled via an authorized visa agent in your country.

Step 6: Travel to Saudi Arabia

After visa stamping, you can now travel to Saudi Arabia. You’ll enter on a temporary work visa.

Step 7: Iqama (Residence Permit) Application

After arriving in Saudi Arabia, your employer will submit your documents to apply for an Iqama (residency/work permit). This is mandatory for you to live and work legally in the Kingdom.

Medical Test for Saudi Work Visa

The medical test includes:

Blood test (HIV, Hepatitis B/C, Syphilis)
Chest X-ray (Tuberculosis)
Physical examination
Urinalysis and drug screening

Failure to pass the test will result in visa denial.

Saudi Iqama (Residence Permit)

Once in Saudi Arabia, you must obtain an Iqama, which is:

Your official ID in Saudi Arabia
Required for everything (banking, rent, SIM card, etc.)
Valid for 1 to 2 years and renewable

The employer handles the Iqama process, and you must always carry it while in the country.

Visa Processing Time

The Saudi work visa process can take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the speed of:

Document attestation
Medical exam results
Embassy visa stamping
Iqama issuance

Saudi Arabia Work Visa Fees (2025)

Visa costs are generally covered by the employer and include:

Visa stamping fee
Medical test fee
Attestation charges
Iqama issuance fee

However, if you’re applying independently, the total cost may range between SAR 2,500 to SAR 7,000.

Changing Jobs in Saudi Arabia (2025)

As of recent labor reforms:

Job changes without Kafeel (sponsor) approval are now allowed under certain conditions:
- Completion of the initial contract
- Mutual agreement or legal justification
- Approval from the Qiwa system
New employer must initiate the transfer through MHRSD

Reasons for Saudi Work Visa Rejection

Your visa might be rejected due to:

Incomplete or invalid documents
Failed medical test
Mismatched qualifications and job title
Past criminal history or immigration violations
Blacklisted employers or applicants

Employee Rights in Saudi Arabia (2025)

Saudi labor law ensures basic worker protections, including:

Legal employment contracts
Monthly salary via Wage Protection System (WPS)
Overtime compensation
Weekly rest day (Friday typically)
Paid annual leave (minimum 21 days)
End-of-service benefits
Health insurance (mandatory for all workers)
Labor courts for disputes

FAQs – Saudi Work Visa 2025

What is the age limit to work in Saudi Arabia?

Typically 21 to 55 years. Some employers may sponsor beyond 55 based on profession.

Can I bring my family on a work visa?

Yes, after receiving your Iqama, you can apply for a family residency visa (dependent Iqama) for your spouse and children. Salary thresholds apply (usually SAR 5,000+ per month).

Do I need to know Arabic to work in Saudi Arabia?

Arabic is widely used, but English is commonly spoken in professional and technical roles.

Can I change jobs inside Saudi Arabia?

Yes, under recent reforms. You must meet job transfer eligibility and have the new employer initiate the transfer in Qiwa.

Final Thoughts

Working in Saudi Arabia in 2025 offers lucrative opportunities, especially with the country’s ongoing modernization and diversification. If you follow the correct steps and work with a reputable employer, the Saudi work visa process can be smooth and rewarding.

Tips for Success:

Ensure all documents are attested and verified
Choose a licensed and trustworthy employer
Stay updated on Saudi labor rules and reforms
Maintain good legal and health standing