What is a Saudi Work Visa?

A Saudi work visa is an official document that allows foreign nationals, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), to legally live and work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This visa is specifically issued to individuals who have secured employment in the country and have been offered a job contract by a Saudi-based employer.

Typically valid for one to two years, the Saudi work visa is tied to your sponsoring employer, meaning your legal status in the country is directly connected to the company that hires you. You cannot freely change jobs or employers unless your current sponsor provides written consent, which is a crucial aspect of the sponsorship (kafala) system in Saudi Arabia.

For OFWs, this visa opens the door to numerous employment opportunities in fields like healthcare, engineering, construction, domestic work, and other skilled and semi-skilled professions. It also provides access to residency and work-related benefits as long as the visa is valid and the employment contract is honored. However, it's essential to understand and comply with both Saudi labor laws and the terms of your employment to ensure a safe and successful work experience abroad.

Renewing Your Work Visa (Iqama)

To continue working legally, your Iqama (residence permit) must be renewed before it expires.​

 

Requirements 

Valid passport​
Current Iqama​
Medical insurance​
Payment of applicable fees​

Renewal Process

Your employer logs into the Work Permits | Qiwa 
Selects the 'Issue or renew work permits' service.​
Chooses the employees for renewal.
Submits the request and pays the fees through local banks.​

Note: Work permits are free for the first 3 months; fees apply thereafter. ​

 

Transferring to a New Employer

If you wish to change employers, a sponsorship transfer is required.

 

Eligibility Criteria

Completion of the current contract or the employer's consent
Non-payment of wages for three consecutive months​
Employer's absence (e.g., travel, imprisonment, death)​
Expired work permit or Iqama

Note: Under certain conditions, transfers can occur without the current employer's approval. 

 

Transfer Process

The new employer uploads the employment contract on the
Initiates the transfer request.
Upon approval, the employee's sponsorship is transferred.

 

Fees and Costs

Iqama Renewal Fee: SAR 650 per year​
Work Permit Fee: SAR 800 per month​
Dependent Fee: SAR 400 per month per dependent​

Note: Employers typically cover these fees, but it's advisable to confirm.
 

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia continues to be a top destination for Filipino workers seeking stable, well-paying jobs abroad. From skilled labor roles to professional opportunities, Saudi work visas open doors to financial growth, career development, and a better future for OFWs and their families. With the right guidance and proper documentation, the journey to working in Saudi Arabia can be smooth and rewarding.

For complete information on Saudi work visas and Philippine government processing requirements for Overseas Filipino Workers (such as the OEC or OFW Pass), refer to the following official resources:

Saudi Labor & Employment Info:

Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development: www.hrsd.gov.sa

Qiwa Digital Platform for Labor Services: www.qiwa.sa

Saudi Arabian Embassy (Employment Visa): embassies.mofa.gov.sa

Philippine OFW Procedures:

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW): www.dmw.gov.ph