Saudi Arabia Work Visa Guide
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s robust economy and abundant career opportunities have made the Saudi Work Visit Visa a highly sought-after permit. This visa has opened doors for many individuals to pursue their careers in Saudi Arabia. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the Saudi Arabia Work Visa for Indian citizens.
What is a Saudi Work Visa? A Saudi Work Visa, also known as a Work Visit Visa, allows individuals to engage in non-commercial or non-business work-related activities in Saudi Arabia. This visa is typically valid for a stay of up to 90 days. However, with approval from the Saudi Ministry of External Affairs, it can be extended for longer periods. The visa is affixed as a sticker in the passport and enables individuals to participate in training, internships, and other work-related activities.
How to Obtain a Saudi Work Visa from India? Applying for a Saudi Work Visit Visa is an offline process, and the Saudi embassy does not accept direct applications. Instead, you must go through a designated travel agency. Here are the steps to obtain a Saudi Work Visa:
- Collect all the necessary documents required for the application.
- Visit the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and download the application form.
- Fill out the application form, affix your photographs, and sign where necessary.
- Pay the visa fees to the travel agency, as direct payments to the embassy are not accepted.
- Submit the completed application form and documents to the Saudi Embassy through the travel agent.
Ensure that you provide accurate details and submit original documents, as incorrect information or fake documents can result in visa rejection.
Eligibility for Saudi Arabia Work Visa To be eligible for a Saudi Work Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from your intended travel date.
- Be sponsored by a Saudi company or organization.
- Have an invitation letter from the Saudi organization, attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia, written in Arabic.
- Your visit’s primary purpose must be to engage in work activities related to technical professions such as engineering or architecture.
When You Have this Visa Once you possess a Saudi Work Visa, keep the following key factors in mind:
- Note the visa’s validity and expiry date, and do not overstay your Saudi Work Visit Visa.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa with you while in Saudi Arabia.
- You must not engage in work for any other organizations or companies aside from your sponsor.
- Respect and abide by Islamic rules and regulations followed in Saudi Arabia.
Documents Required for Saudi Work Visa As per the Saudi Arabia work visa requirements, you must provide the following documents during the application process:
- Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages, including any old passports.
- Invitation letter from the Saudi Arabian company, approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Arabic.
- Two passport-size photographs.
- A covering letter from the Indian company on company letterhead, bearing the company seal and signature, detailing the visit’s purpose, which should match the invitation letter.
- Original degree certificate.
- Copy of the Saudi company’s registration in Arabic.
- Travel insurance issued by the embassy according to your application.
- Proof of work experience (if required).
Saudi Work Visa Photo Specifications The Saudi Work Visa photo must meet the following specifications:
- Two identical passport-size photos.
- Recently taken (within the last 3 months).
- Colored photos with a white background.
- Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
- The face should cover 80% of the photo.
- Facial expression should be neutral.
- Head should be centered.
- Eyeglasses are not permitted, but headwear is allowed for religious reasons.
Saudi Arabia Work Visa Processing Time Saudi Work Visas are typically processed quickly and can be issued within 4-5 working days. However, processing times may vary based on factors such as the number of entries, document attestation and stamping, application volume, and other considerations.
Saudi Work Visa Fees The visa application fees vary depending on factors like the number of entries and travel agency charges. Additionally, charges for travel insurance will be confirmed after the application submission. It is crucial to confirm the exact fees with the travel agency before applying.
How to Check Saudi Work Visa Status After submitting your application, you will receive your visa through your travel agent. While offline tracking is generally not available, you can check the status of your application by contacting your travel agent or emailing the Saudi embassy for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can extend your Saudi Work Visa in most cases for up to the total duration of your current permit. For example, if you have a 90-day visa, you can extend it for an additional 90 days. However, ensure you apply for an extension at least a week before your current visa expires. The maximum visitor stay duration is 180 days.
No, you cannot stay in Saudi Arabia for even a single day after your visa expires. You must leave the country on or before the visa expiry date. Staying beyond this period is considered an offense and may result in hefty fines and deportation.
No, a mandatory medical test is not required for a Saudi Work Visit Visa. However, some other long-term visa categories may require mandatory medical certificates. Nonetheless, it is advisable to undergo a medical check-up for your safety and the well-being of people in Saudi Arabia.
No, you cannot convert a Saudi Work Visit Visa into a tourist visa. With the work permit, you are allowed to participate in sightseeing and other tourism activities. However, if you wish to obtain a separate tourist visa, you must return to your home country and apply for it there.
