Saudi Arabia has announced significant updates to its work visa regulations for Indian expatriates, effective January 14, 2025. This change is part of the kingdom's broader labor sector reforms aimed at enhancing the employment landscape for foreign workers, particularly in line with its Vision 2030 initiative.
Key Takeaways
- Pre-Verification Requirement: Indian workers must now complete a pre-verification of their professional and academic qualifications before applying for a work visa.
- Stricter Certification Processes: Enhanced certification processes for specific professions will be implemented.
- Residency Permit Updates: New rules for renewing residency permits (Iqama) and extending exit and re-entry visas have been introduced.
Overview of Changes
The new pre-verification requirement was first proposed six months ago and is now a mandatory step for Indian workers seeking employment in Saudi Arabia. This initiative aims to ensure that expatriates possess the necessary qualifications and skills for their respective jobs, thereby improving the overall quality of the workforce.
According to the Saudi mission in India, the professional verification procedures will be enforced starting January 14. This move is expected to streamline the visa application process and align with the kingdom's goal of creating a more flexible employment environment for expatriates.
Steps to Apply for a Saudi Work Visa
For Indian nationals looking to work in Saudi Arabia, the following steps outline the application process:
- Secure a Job Offer: Obtain employment from a Saudi-based company willing to act as your sponsor.
- Receive an Invitation Letter: Your employer will provide an official invitation letter, certified by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce.
- Prepare Necessary Documents: Gather the following:
- A passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages.
- Completed visa application form.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
- Signed employment contract.
- Attested educational and professional certificates.
- Medical certificate confirming fitness for work.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Submit Visa Application: Present your application and documents to the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.
- Pay Visa Fees: The fees vary depending on the visa type:
- Single-entry work visa: SAR 2,000 (approximately Rs 43,800).
- Multiple-entry work visa: SAR 3,000 (approximately Rs 65,700).
- One-year work visa: SAR 5,000 (approximately Rs 1,09,500).
- Two-year work visa: SAR 7,000 (approximately Rs 1,53,300).
- Obtain Health Insurance: Employers typically cover the cost of health insurance, which is mandatory for foreign workers.
- Await Processing: Visa processing usually takes 1 to 3 weeks.
- Travel to Saudi Arabia: Upon visa approval, you can enter Saudi Arabia and commence employment.
- Apply for Residence Permit (Iqama): Within 90 days of arrival, your employer will assist in obtaining an Iqama, allowing you to reside and work in Saudi Arabia legally.
Conclusion
These updates to the work visa regulations reflect Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing its labor market and ensuring that expatriates meet the necessary qualifications for their roles. As the second-largest expatriate community in the kingdom, Indian workers will need to adapt to these new requirements to continue contributing to the Saudi economy effectively.