Saudi Arabia Work Visa for Indians: A Complete Guide (2025)
Saudi Arabia work visa for Indians is an essential requirement for those planning to take up employment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). With thousands of Indians working in Saudi Arabia across sectors like construction, healthcare, oil & gas, and IT, this visa serves as the legal permit to live and work in the country. To obtain a work visa, Indian citizens must be sponsored by a Saudi employer and fulfill specific documentation and procedural requirements.
Types of Work Visas in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers different work visa categories based on the nature of employment:
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General Work Visa: For skilled and semi-skilled professionals under contract with Saudi employers.
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Domestic Work Visa: For household workers such as drivers, cleaners, and cooks.
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Engineer and Technician Visa: For professionals in engineering and technical fields.
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Healthcare Worker Visa: For doctors, nurses, and medical technicians.
Each visa is job-specific and tied to an employer who acts as the sponsor.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens
To be eligible for a Saudi Arabia work visa, Indian applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Possess a valid job offer from a Saudi-based employer
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Hold educational or professional qualifications relevant to the job
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Be between the permitted age range (generally 21 to 50 years)
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Have no criminal record
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Pass a mandatory medical examination
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Be willing to undergo background verification
Documents Required for Saudi Work Visa
The following documents are typically needed when applying for a Saudi Arabia work visa:
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Valid Indian passport (with at least 6 months validity)
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Original job offer letter from the Saudi employer
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Visa authorization number issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Medical fitness certificate from a GAMCA-approved medical center
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Attested educational certificates (attested by MEA and Saudi Embassy)
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Police clearance certificate
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Passport-size photographs (with white background)
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Visa application form duly filled and signed
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Employment contract copy
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Sponsor’s documents such as CR number and company license
Medical Examination Requirement
Before the visa can be issued, the applicant must undergo a compulsory medical test at a GAMCA-approved center in India. The test includes:
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Blood tests
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Chest X-rays
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General physical examination
A clean medical report is mandatory for visa stamping.
Application Process for Saudi Work Visa
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Receive Job Offer
Get a confirmed employment offer from a Saudi company. -
Employer Applies for Visa Authorization
The employer in Saudi Arabia obtains a visa block and submits your details to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. -
Visa Authorization Number Issued
The number is sent to the Saudi Embassy in India. -
Medical Test & Document Attestation
Undergo the medical test and get your educational certificates attested by MEA and the Saudi Embassy. -
Submit Visa Application
Apply at the designated Saudi Embassy or Consulate through an authorized travel agent or visa agency. -
Visa Stamping
After approval, your work visa is stamped in your passport. -
Travel to Saudi Arabia
After receiving the visa, you can book your flight and travel to begin employment.
Duration and Validity of the Visa
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The Saudi work visa is typically issued for 1 or 2 years, depending on the contract.
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It is renewable based on continued employment.
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The visa allows single or multiple entries, depending on the sponsor’s application.
Post-Arrival Requirements in Saudi Arabia
After arriving in Saudi Arabia:
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Complete Iqama (residence permit) formalities within 90 days
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Undergo a local medical check
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Register with local authorities and the employer
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Carry your Iqama at all times as proof of legal residency
Rights and Restrictions
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You must work only with the sponsoring employer unless officially transferred.
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Employment conditions are governed by the Saudi Labor Law.
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You cannot change your job or employer without official approval.
Can Family Members Join?
Yes, workers in certain job categories can apply for family residence visas (dependents) for their spouse and children. However, this depends on job designation, salary, and company sponsorship policies.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia work visa for Indians is a structured and sponsor-based process that requires accurate documentation, medical clearance, and adherence to Saudi regulations. With a valid job offer and guidance, Indian professionals can smoothly transition into work life in the Kingdom. For expert assistance and hassle-free processing, connect with BTW Visa Services.
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