Saudi Arabia is a prime location for foreigners to live and work. Living and working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is particularly attractive for expats because of the country’s lively culture, relatively low crime rate, flourishing business climate, streamlined visa procedures, tax-free income, and very reasonable living costs.
In Saudi Arabia, thirty percent of the population is foreign. This highlight shows Saudi Arabia’s welcoming environment for outside talents and its vast opportunities for career growth. With many skilled workers, Saudi Arabia is a great place for professionals from all over the world.
Individuals planning to live and work in Saudi Arabia should have an Iqama, also known as a Residence Permit, that validates their ability to do so within the region. The government uses the Residence Permit to supervise and manage the expatriates in the country.
What is Iqama or Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia?
An Iqama, also known as a Residence Permit, is an identification card given to all expats living in Saudi Arabia. It is an important document for anyone who is traveling to Saudi Arabia on a work or dependent visa. This residence card facilitates a variety of actions, such as the identification of oneself upon request, opening a bank account, applying for a driver’s license, obtaining a SIM card for your mobile phone, and so much more.
Who requires a Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia?
1. Expatriate workers who plan to work and live in Saudi Arabia
2. Family members (dependents of expatriate workers), such as spouses and children
3. Foreign students studying in educational institutions in Saudi Arabia
4. Company owners
5. Domestic helpers like housemaids, drivers, and other foreign domestic helpers
6. Temporary workers
Types of Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia
The following types of Iqamas or Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia are issued by the Saudi government based on the purpose of your stay in the kingdom:
- Professional Class Iqama: For those holding professional degrees
- Dependents Iqama: For family members of expatriates
- Government Employees Iqama: For foreigners employed by the Saudi government
- Business Iqama: For businessmen and investors
- Special Privileged Iqama: This is commonly known as Premium Iqama or Premium Residency. The Premium Residency visa does not require a local sponsor and is granted to foreigners who plan to reside in Saudi Arabia.
- Domestic Worker Iqama: For those employed as household help (nannies, drivers, etc.)
- Labour Class Iqama: For labour workers
How do I apply for a Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia?
To receive a Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia, foreigners and their sponsoring companies must typically complete specific requirements. These criteria vary based on the type of Residence Permit; however, they must include a legal job contract, a valid medical certificate showing good overall health, health insurance, and an active work permit.
The labour and immigration laws in Saudi Arabia are governed by stringent regulations. In order to apply for the worker’s Residence Permit and work visa, a local employer must serve as a sponsor. Given that a local employer recommends the candidate, this lends trust to the foreigner’s role.
Steps to Receive Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia
The experts at Gatestone Group will assist in the below procedures to receive a Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia:
1. Apply for a block visa
The sponsoring company must first get block visa permission from the Ministry of Labour and Social Development (MLSD). Block visas are quotas set by the MLSD that allow companies to sponsor foreign personnel for long-term work permits. The MLSD issues visas based on the applicant’s ethnicity and employment role.
2. Obtain a visa authorisation number and power of attorney
After receiving block visa approval, the sponsoring firm must get a visa authorisation number and power of attorney from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This phase allows the sponsoring employer to complete a work permit application in the employee’s country of residence.
3. Apply for a work permit
Once the sponsoring company has obtained a visa authorisation number and power of attorney, it must apply for a work permit on the employee’s behalf. The work permit application must be supported by the employee’s medical certificate from an approved medical centre.
4. Enter Saudi Arabia to begin employment
The international employee can enter Saudi Arabia and begin working after his or her work permit is approved.
5. Submit the Residence Permit and work permit applications
Within 90 days of the employee’s arrival, the sponsoring company must file an application for a work visa and Residence Permit with the MLSD.
Streamlined Iqama Solutions for a Seamless Start in Saudi Arabia
At Gatestone Group, we understand the complexities of navigating Saudi Arabia’s immigration landscape. Our dedicated team of Iqama specialists streamlines the process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. We handle all the paperwork, liaise with relevant authorities, and keep you informed throughout the journey. Let Gatestone Group take care of your Residence Permit (Iqama) requirements, so you can focus on building your business in the Kingdom.
FAQs
The cost of a Residence Permit (Iqama) varies based on its type and validity period. Fees could change over time; therefore, it is important to keep up with the latest information.
A foreign employee’s work permit and Iqama are valid for one year from their issuing date and are renewable.
Your employer is in charge of applying for your Residence Permit (Iqama). You will need to show documents such as your passport, medical exam results, and a work visa.
Tourists do not need a Residence Permit (Iqama). An Iqama is for long-term residents working in Saudi Arabia. Tourists often apply for a visa that is specific to their trip.