A temporary work visa in Saudi Arabia is a visa that allows a foreign national to work in the country for a stipulated time. Normally, these are assigned to professionals, skilled workers, and multinational companies whose workers work on specific projects in Saudi Arabia. The temporary work visa allows the foreign workers to work in the country for up to 90 days and can be extended for another 90 days. The visa must be used within 1 year of the issuance.
The legal and bureaucratic jurisdiction in the country needs to be considered when obtaining a temporary work visa to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This guide will outline the requirements, relevant considerations, and the next steps for seeking a temporary work visa in KSA.
Requirements for Temporary Work in Saudi Arabia
The following are the requirements for a temporary work visa in Saudi Arabia:
1. A contract of work between you and your Saudi employer must be signed by both parties.
2. The company must have a valid commercial registration in Saudi Arabia.
3. The company’s status in Saudi Arabia must be listed under ‘Existing’.
4. The company must have available visa allotments.
5. The Nitaqat level (Saudisation level) of the company must be maintained at medium green level or above.
6. No outstanding Wage Protection System (WPS) violations allowed.
Advantages of Temporary Work in Saudi Arabia
The introduction of the temporary work visa in Saudi Arabia has been greatly beneficial to both the employer and the employee:
- It allows employers to bring in foreign workers quickly for short-term projects with fewer procedures compared to the traditional work visa.
- Temporary work visas usually have reduced processing costs.
- It allows businesses to draw on an increased pool of skilled professionals to work on a particular project or other times when extra skill is needed.
- Easy application procedure with less administrative burden on the hiring employer.
- It can respond quickly to market changes and project requirements.
Key Considerations for Temporary Work in Saudi Arabia
1. Culture adaptation: One must be very conscious about the local customs and norms followed in the country. This not only covers the dress code but also social behaviour and religious persecution as well.
2. Language: While English is quite accepted in the business world, learning some basic Arabic will be an added advantage and will also help in daily conversations.
3. Legal obligations: Have a clear knowledge of your legal obligations while working in the KSA, including labour laws.
What are the next steps?
On your arrival in Saudi Arabia, you may consider the following:
1. Iqama: You will be assisted by your employer to obtain an Iqama, which is the residency permit required for staying and working in the KSA. Normally, this involves some medical tests, fingerprinting, etc.
2. Bank account: You may open a bank account through which your salary shall be paid and for personal financial management concerning and considering your Iqama.
3. Know the local laws: Being aware of the laws and regulations will help you stay compliant and avoid any unforeseen troubles. This includes but is not limited to traffic and workplace rules.
Conclusion
The procedure of getting a temporary employment/work visa in Saudi Arabia is well-organised and requires careful planning. Understanding the procedures, preparing relevant documentation, and being aware of cultural and legal factors will help to ensure a smooth visa application process and a successful professional journey in Saudi Arabia.
Using the services provided by Gatestone Group can substantially simplify this procedure. Gatestone Group specialises in assisting foreigners and their companies with visa applications, legal processes, and offering a smooth transition and process. Their expertise helps in navigating the complexities and possible challenges of acquiring a temporary work visa in Saudi Arabia, ensuring confidence in both the work and hiring procedures.
FAQs
A 3-month temporary work visa in Saudi Arabia, also known as a short-term work visa, is typically issued for technical professionals engaged in project-based work lasting up to 90 days. This visa can be extended for an additional 90 days if required.
