Saudi Arabia has announced new work visa regulations for Indian expatriates, effective January 14, 2025. This move 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 the New Regulations
The pre-verification requirement was first proposed six months ago and is now a mandatory step for Indian workers seeking employment in Saudi Arabia. This change reflects the kingdom's commitment to ensuring that expatriates possess the necessary qualifications and skills for their roles.
According to the Saudi mission in India, the professional verification procedures will be enforced starting January 14, 2025. This initiative is part of a larger effort to create more flexible employment contracts for expatriates, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030.
Steps to Apply for a Saudi Work Visa
Indian workers interested in applying for a work visa to Saudi Arabia should follow these steps:
- 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
The tightening of work visa rules for Indian expatriates marks a significant shift in Saudi Arabia's approach to foreign labor. As the kingdom continues to reform its labor market, Indian workers must adapt to these new requirements to secure employment opportunities in the region. With over 2.4 million Indians residing in Saudi Arabia, these changes will have a profound impact on the expatriate community.