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Types of Saudi Work Visas for OFWs
Saudi Arabia has long been one of the top destinations for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). With a growing demand for skilled and unskilled workers, it’s essential to understand which Saudi work visa fits your situation.
Let’s break it down by visa type, so you know what’s best for you or your loved ones.
Employment Visa (Iqama)
The Employment Visa, or Iqama, is the most common visa for OFWs who are hired for long-term work in Saudi Arabia. It allows the worker to live and work legally in the country under the sponsorship of a Saudi company or employer.
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages.
- Signed employment contract and job offer letter.
- Medical examination reports.
- Authenticated educational and work experience certificates.
- Visa referral note from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Application Process:
- Your Saudi employer obtains a visa authorization from the Ministry of Labor.
- Submit the required documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
- Upon approval, travel to Saudi Arabia and complete the Iqama processing.
For detailed requirements, visit the Saudi Embassy's Employment Visa page.
Temporary Work Visa
The Temporary Work Visa is for short-term jobs or projects in Saudi Arabia. It’s good for workers like consultants, technicians, or specialists hired for specific tasks. The visa is valid for up to 90 days, and sometimes allows multiple entries within 12 months, so you can go in and out of Saudi Arabia if needed.
Requirements:
- Invitation letter from a Saudi company.
- Valid passport and completed visa application.
- Proof of qualifications and experience relevant to the assignment.
- Application Process:
- Obtain an invitation letter from the Saudi host company.
- Submit the application and documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
- Receive the visa and proceed with travel arrangements.
Learn more about temporary work visas at Centuro Global
Business Visit Visa
The Business Visit Visa is for people going to Saudi Arabia for meetings, conferences, or business trips. It’s usually valid for up to 90 days. This visa does not allow you to work or earn money in Saudi Arabia—it's only for visiting and business-related activities.
Requirements:
- Invitation letter from a Saudi company.
- Valid passport and completed visa application.
- Proof of business activities and ties to the Philippines.
Application Process:
- Secure an invitation letter from the Saudi host company.
- Submit the application and supporting documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
- Upon approval, make travel arrangements to Saudi Arabia.
For more information, refer to the Saudi Embassy's Visa Types.
Domestic Work Visa
The Domestic Work Visa is for Filipinos hired to work in homes in Saudi Arabia as maids, drivers, or caregivers. This visa requires a sponsor, usually a Saudi family or employer, and the job usually comes with a two-year contract.
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Employment contract specifying job role and salary.
- Medical examination reports.
- Proof of training or experience in domestic work.
Application Process:
- The Saudi sponsor obtains visa authorization from the Ministry of Labor.
- Upon visa issuance, travel to Saudi Arabia and commence employment.
Seasonal Work Visa
The Seasonal Work Visa is for temporary jobs in Saudi Arabia, like farming or working at events. It is only valid for a short time and cannot be renewed. This visa is made for industries that need extra workers during busy seasons.
Requirements:
- Valid passport and completed visa application.
- Job offer or contract specifying the duration and nature of work.
- Medical examination reports.
Application Process:
- Obtain a job offer from a Saudi employer for seasonal work.
- Submit the application and necessary documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
- Receive the visa and proceed with travel plans.
More information is available at Khawaja Manpower.
