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The Saudi Work Visa Process has become more digital in recent years, with employment contracts managed through the Qiwa platform and medical checks through accredited centres. Saudi Arabia remains one of the largest employers of Keralites, especially in healthcare, construction, engineering, hospitality and driving. Understanding each step of the Saudi Work Visa Process protects you from fake agents and visa problems.
This guide explains the steps, documents, professional accreditation and safety tips for Saudi jobs.
Saudi Work Visa Process – Step by Step
- Job offer: From a registered Saudi employer, with job title, salary and benefits.
- Employment contract: Saudi employers document contracts on the Qiwa platform of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
- Visa authorisation: The employer obtains the work visa authorisation from Saudi authorities.
- Medical test: At a centre approved through the GCC medical system (Wafid).
- Professional accreditation: Required for many professions (see below).
- Visa stamping: Through the Saudi consulate / authorised visa facilitation centre.
- Emigration clearance: On eMigrate if your passport is ECR.
- Arrival and Iqama: Residence permit (Iqama) issued in Saudi Arabia.
Professional Accreditation
| Profession | Authority |
|---|---|
| Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab staff | Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) via Mumaris+ |
| Engineers | Saudi Council of Engineers |
| Skilled trades | Professional verification / skill tests as required |
Start accreditation early, as it can take time.
Documents Usually Required
- Passport with sufficient validity
- Educational and experience certificates (attested as required)
- Offer letter and signed contract
- Medical fitness report
- Photographs as per specification
- Professional licence or accreditation (for regulated professions)
How to Check Your Saudi Visa
Use the official Saudi visa enquiry service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (visa.mofa.gov.sa) with your passport number or visa number to confirm that the visa is genuine and matches the job.
Red Flags in Saudi Job Offers
- Offer on a visit visa with promises of conversion
- Agents demanding lakhs of rupees
- Contract salary different from the offer letter
- No employer name or registration details
- Request to hand over your passport to unregistered agents
The legal service charge for MEA-registered agents is limited to ₹30,000 plus GST. Read our overseas job fraud guide.
Safe Routes From Kerala
- NORKA Roots and ODEPC (Saudi Ministry of Health and private recruitments)
- MEA-registered recruiting agents
- Direct offers from established Saudi companies
Saudi Work Visa Process: Quick Safety Checklist
Before you act on any offer related to Saudi Work Visa Process, go through this short checklist. It takes only a few minutes and can save you lakhs of rupees.
- Confirm the employer and the job on the official government portal of the destination country.
- Keep copies of the offer letter, contract, visa and every payment receipt.
- Never pay more than the legal service charge to a recruiting agent in India (₹30,000 plus GST for MEA-registered agents).
- Complete emigration clearance on eMigrate if your passport is ECR.
- Save the contact details of the Indian Embassy and the MADAD portal before you travel.
Following these steps makes your Saudi Work Visa Process journey safer and smoother.
We review and update this Saudi Work Visa Process guide whenever official notices or rules change. Bookmark this page, share it with friends who need it, and always confirm the latest details on the official website before you take any step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Qiwa?
A Saudi government platform used to manage employment contracts and labour services.
Do nurses need SCFHS classification?
Yes. Healthcare professionals need SCFHS classification through Mumaris+.
How do I check my Saudi visa?
On the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa enquiry portal.
Can I work in Saudi on a visit visa?
No. You need a proper work visa and Iqama.
Related: Saudi Arabia Jobs | Gulf Jobs
Disclaimer: Kerala Job News is not affiliated with any government department, recruiting body or employer mentioned here. This article is compiled from official Saudi and Indian government information for general information only. Details can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Kerala Job News never charges money for job information.
