This article has been reviewed by Wego’s editorial team to ensure that the content is up to date & accurate.
Updated August 2024
Key takeaways:
Saudi work visas require employer sponsorship and have associated processing fees
Visa types: Permanent, Seasonal, Temporary—each with specific durations
Applicants must meet age, fitness requirements, and submit necessary documents
Table of Contents
Saudi work visa types and prices
A Saudi work or employment visa is a necessary document for all foreign residents wishing to work in Saudi Arabia. The employer or company is the party responsible for sponsoring Saudi work visas for their employees. This means sponsors may be a Saudi corporation, an individual, or a foreign organization with the required permits to conduct business in Saudi Arabia.
The electronic visa processing price is USD 10.00 (SAR 38) for each visa. Additionally, there is a banking service price of USD 0.50 (SAR 2) per visa. Please be aware that these processing charges are non-refundable.
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Permanent work visa
A Permanent work visa is granted to individuals who have secured long-term employment contracts in Saudi Arabia. The validity period of these visas typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, depending on the specifics of the employment contract and the sponsoring employer.
Seasonal work visa
A Seasonal Work Visa is issued to workers employed in temporary roles tied to specific seasons or events in Saudi Arabia, like agricultural harvests or tourist seasons. These visas are valid only for the duration of the corresponding seasonal periods.
Temporary work visa
A Saudi temporary work visa is for workers with short-term contracts in Saudi Arabia, valid for one year. It allows up to 90 days of work, with a possible 90-day extension. This multiple-entry visa permits frequent travel in and out of the country within the 90-day period.
How to apply for a Saudi work visa?
Navigating the process of obtaining a Saudi Arabia work visa can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it becomes straightforward and manageable. Let’s walk you through every step of the application process, from gathering the necessary documents to understanding the time it takes to process your application.
Requirements
To work in Saudi Arabia, you must be physically fit, adhere to the age limit of between 18 and 60 years old, and have the necessary credentials or fall into a required employment category. The age limit is strictly enforced, so make sure you fall within the specified range. Additionally, meeting the age limit is crucial along with fulfilling other employment requirements.
Employees will require a sponsor in Saudi Arabia in order to secure a visa. The majority of the application procedure is handled by the sponsoring employer. However, the prospective employee is still required to submit all necessary documentation detailed below:
- A passport that will be valid for the duration of employment
- A passport-sized photograph in color
- A completed visa application
- Three copies of a signed medical report
- A letter of employment from the sponsoring company in Saudi Arabia, which must be certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce
- A signed copy of the employment contract
- A certified copy of the applicant’s university diploma, which must be validated by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission
- A police report.
Application steps
- Visit the Saudi visa service website.
- Register or log in to your account.
- Click on “Explore Visa Options.”
- Choose “Work Visa.”
- Select the type of work visa you wish to apply for.
- Complete the required information.
- Submit your application.
If you would like to check the status and validity of your Saudi work visa, please consult our dedicated Muqeem visa validity article below.
