From work visas and family reunification to tourist e-visas and the Premium Residency — a clear breakdown of every visa category and who qualifies.
Saudi Arabia offers several visa pathways depending on your purpose, employer, and nationality. Most expats arrive on a work visa sponsored by their employer, but the landscape has expanded significantly since Vision 2030.
Sponsored by a Saudi employer. Your employer files the work permit (tashgheel) and you enter on a work visa, then convert to an Iqama residence permit within 90 days.
Spouses and children of Iqama holders can reside in Saudi Arabia on a family residency permit (murafiq) tied to the primary holder's Iqama.
Launched in 2019, the Saudi tourist e-visa allows nationals of 60+ countries to visit for up to 90 days per stay (180 days total per year) for tourism and business visits.
Saudi Arabia's "Green Card" equivalent. Holders enjoy near-citizen rights: can sponsor family, own property, start businesses, and live without an employer sponsor.
For professionals attending meetings, conferences, or conducting due diligence. Usually requires an invitation letter from a Saudi host company.
Purpose-specific visas for Muslim pilgrims performing Hajj or Umrah. Cannot be used for tourism or employment purposes.
The standard route for most expats arriving for employment.
Your Saudi employer issues a formal job offer. Ensure the contract is attested and matches the visa application details exactly.
The employer applies to the Ministry of Human Resources (MHRSD) for a work permit (tashgheel). This may take 2–6 weeks.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues the visa number. Your employer or PRO sends this to you to present at the embassy.
Complete a medical examination at an approved clinic in your home country and obtain a police clearance certificate. Both must be attested.
Present all documents at the Saudi embassy/consulate. Visa is typically stamped within 5–10 working days. Enter within the validity period.
Once in Saudi Arabia, your employer applies for your Iqama. You will complete a biometric registration and medical examination locally.
Always verify that your job title on the work permit matches your contract exactly. Mismatches are a common cause of entry refusals and can delay your start date by weeks.
Valid passport (6+ months), recent photos, attested degree certificates, medical report, police clearance, signed employment contract, and employer's commercial registration copy.
Work permit: 2–6 weeks. Visa stamping: 5–10 working days. Iqama issuance after arrival: 30–90 days. Plan your timeline accordingly and keep copies of everything.
Saudi Arabia's sponsorship (Kafala) system has undergone significant reform since 2021. Here's what has changed for expat workers.
Once you have your visa sorted, the next step is preparing everything before you arrive. Our Before You Arrive guide covers housing, finances, and the 90-day pre-move checklist.