Saudi Arabia
September 2010
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Saudi Arabia. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Attending business meetings or discussions
- Receiving training
- Visiting facilities and plants
- Attending seminars or conferences
Type of Business Visas – The Visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.
- Business Visa
Basic Requirements –
- Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
- Good health and character;
- Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Saudi Arabia;
- No intention to permanently reside in Saudi Arabia;
- A ticket for onward travel from Saudi Arabia;
- Proof of funds
Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to Saudi Arabia for up to six months. Visas cannot be extended in country.
Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document and in some cases
- a valid visa or authority to enter Saudi Arabia
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - The principal visa category for temporary employment in Saudi Arabia is the work visa. This is a category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Saudi Arabia on a temporary visa.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled and qualified positions in Saudi Arabia.
Process Overview - The process for obtaining work and residence authorization involves a four step process summarized below.
- Block visa - block visas are issued for several positions and must state nationality, job title and country of residence for each potential expatriate employee.
- Work visa pre-approval - an individual application is submitted for the employee, based on the block visa approval.
- Work visa - the work visa is applied for at the Saudi Embassy or Consulate specified on the work visa pre-approval. A legalised, translated medical and police clearance certificates will be required.
- Residence permit (iqama) application - submitted post arrival.
Estimated Processing Time – six to eight weeks
Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to two years.
Family Members - Secondary/ family dependants may not work without separate work authorisation.
