Saudi Arabia Work Visa Process September 2025

Saudi Arabia continues to be a top destination for foreign workers seeking career opportunities in sectors like construction, healthcare, IT, and oil & gas. With the country’s Vision 2030 economic reforms, more jobs are opening for skilled international professionals.

Overview of Saudi Arabia Work Visa 2025

A Saudi Work Visa (also known as an Employment Visa) allows foreign nationals to enter the Kingdom for full-time employment. It is typically sponsored by a Saudi employer who handles most of the documentation and visa authorization through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Once issued, the visa allows you to travel to Saudi Arabia, where you’ll receive a Residence Permit (Iqama) to live and work legally in the country.

Types of Saudi Work Visas (2025)

1. Employment Visa
   For individuals who have secured a job offer from a Saudi company. The employer must sponsor the applicant.
2. Temporary Work Visa
   For short-term work assignments (up to 90 days) in Saudi Arabia. Often used for project-based or consultancy roles.
3. Seasonal Work Visa
   Issued for temporary work during peak periods (such as Hajj and Ramadan seasons).
4. Commercial Visit Visa (Work Purposes)
   For foreign specialists or consultants visiting Saudi Arabia to perform professional services without a long-term contract.

Key Requirements for Saudi Work Visa

To qualify for a Saudi work visa in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:

• Have a valid job offer from a Saudi employer.
• Possess qualifications and experience relevant to the offered role.
• The employer must have an approved work visa quota for foreign workers.
• Pass a medical examination at an approved clinic.
• Provide a police clearance certificate with no criminal record.
• Have a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
• Be of legal working age (usually between 21–60 years).

Documents Required for Saudi Work Visa (2025)

You and your employer must prepare the following documents for the application:

From the Employee (Applicant):

• Valid passport (at least 6 months)
• Completed visa application form
• 2–4 passport-size photographs (white background)
• Original employment contract signed by both parties
• Educational and professional certificates (attested by the Saudi Embassy)
• Medical report from an authorized clinic
• Police clearance certificate
• Copy of visa authorization number from MOFA
• Payment proof of visa processing fee

From the Employer (Saudi Sponsor):

• Invitation letter or work visa authorization issued through MOFA
• Company registration documents
• Chamber of Commerce attestation
• Proof of job offer and work permit quota

Step-by-Step Process for Saudi Work Visa Application (September 2025)

Step 1: Job Offer and Contract Signing

Secure a confirmed job offer from a Saudi employer. The employer will issue an employment contract that outlines your role, salary, and benefits.

Step 2: Employer Applies for Visa Authorization

Your Saudi employer submits a visa application to the Ministry of Human Resources and MOFA to obtain a Work Visa Authorization Number. This step confirms your eligibility to work in the Kingdom.

Step 3: Collect Required Documents

You will be notified once the visa authorization is approved. Prepare your documents — including attested educational certificates, police clearance, and a medical report.

Step 4: Medical Examination

Undergo a full medical checkup at a clinic approved by the Saudi Embassy in your country. Tests typically include blood tests, X-rays, and communicable disease screening.

Step 5: Submit Visa Application

Submit your completed visa application, along with all supporting documents, to the Saudi Embassy or authorized visa center (such as VFS TasHeel).

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fees

Pay the visa fee at the embassy or visa center. Some agencies also accept online payments. Keep the receipt for tracking.

Step 7: Visa Processing and Approval

Once your documents are verified, the Saudi embassy issues the Work Visa Sticker in your passport.

Step 8: Travel to Saudi Arabia

After receiving the visa, you can travel to Saudi Arabia. Your employer will assist you in completing the local immigration steps.

Step 9: Obtain Iqama (Residence Permit)

Within 90 days of arrival, your employer must apply for your Iqama, the residence and work permit that allows you to live and work legally in Saudi Arabia.

Visa Fees in 2025

Note: Fees vary depending on the applicant’s country and the visa center’s service charges.

Processing Time

The Saudi Work Visa processing time depends on document verification and embassy workload.

• Visa authorization (by employer): 1–3 weeks
• Embassy processing: 5–15 working days
• Total estimated time: 3–6 weeks

Applying early and ensuring all documents are properly attested can help avoid delays.

Validity and Renewal

• The initial Saudi Work Visa is usually valid for 90 days for entry.
• Upon arrival, the Iqama (residence permit) is valid for 1–2 years, depending on the employment contract.
• Employers are responsible for renewing the Iqama before it expires.

Important Notes for 2025

• Applicants must enter Saudi Arabia within 90 days after the visa is issued.
• Overstaying or working with an expired Iqama can result in fines or deportation.
• Female professionals must have a valid job offer and employer sponsorship; rules are now more open under Vision 2030 reforms.
• Dependents (spouse and children) can join under a family residence visa after your Iqama is issued.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Always verify your employer’s MOFA authorization before applying.
• Ensure your educational documents are attested by your home country’s Foreign Office and the Saudi Embassy.
• Keep digital and printed copies of all submitted documents.
• Avoid using unlicensed recruitment agencies to prevent fraud.
• Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your planned travel date.

Final Thoughts

The Saudi Arabia Work Visa process in September 2025 is straightforward if both the applicant and employer follow proper documentation and approval procedures. With thousands of new projects across the Kingdom, especially under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia continues to open opportunities for skilled international workers.