Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- The Saudi government has created a new short-term work visa for certain foreign nationals
- Qualified employees may work in Saudi Arabia for a visa-sponsoring entity up to 90 days per year
- Multiple entries are permitted with the Temporary Work Visit Visa
- Employers must be classified as “medium-green” in the Nitaqat scheme, comply with obligations in the Wages Protection System, and ensure foreign workers have valid work authorization
- The visa quota is limited to 50 visas per employer
- Visas are non-transferrable to other entities
- Applicants may obtain a visa from a Saudi consular post or visa agent abroad
Overview
The Saudi Arabian government has created a new short-term work visa for eligible foreign nationals.
What are the Changes?
Saudi Arabia’s new visa, called the Temporary Work Visit Visa, allows temporary work in Saudi Arabia under certain conditions. The visa allows foreign nationals to conduct work in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days each year, provided they work for a visa-sponsoring entity. The visa also permits multiple entries.
What Should Employers and Applicants Know?
Employers must meet certain eligibility criteria to qualify for the new visa quota. Employers must be classified at the “medium-green” level in the Nitaqat scheme. They must also comply with obligations in the Wages Protection System, and they must ensure that their foreign workers have valid work authorization.
Eligible employers may obtain a visa quota through the Qiwa portal. Each employer may receive up to 50 visas. The visa is valid for one year, and it cannot be transferred to other employers. Applicants must obtain their visa from a Saudi consular post or visa agent abroad.
Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.
