Visa and iqama: what expats must know

From work visa to iqama card and exit re-entry permits, the paperwork sequence that gets you legally working.

The route to working legally in Saudi Arabia runs in a fixed order. Knowing the sequence lets you spot when an employer is stalling.

The sequence

1. The employer obtains a visa authorisation block from the Ministry of Human Resources.

2. You receive a work visa at the Saudi mission in your country, after attestation and a medical.

3. You enter the Kingdom on that visa, which is valid for a limited window.

4. Within 90 days the employer converts it into an iqama, your residency permit.

The iqama

Your iqama is your identity in the Kingdom. It carries your profession title, which affects bank accounts, family visas and licence conversions. If the printed profession is wrong, ask for a correction early because it is painful to change later.

Exit and re-entry

To leave and return during your contract you need an exit re-entry permit, issued by your employer through Absher. Single and multiple variants exist, so ask which you get.

Transferring sponsorship

Under current labour reforms a worker with a documented contract may transfer to a new employer after the first year, subject to notice rules. Keep a copy of your Qiwa contract.