What is the government’s policy towards corporate immigration?

The Saudi government encourages foreign investment in the Kingdom. Aligned with Vision 2030, the government has made numerous reforms to create an environment that is attractive for foreign investors and that is mutually beneficial to both businesses and the economy. Expats are a valued part of Saudi society and there are clear plans in Vision 2030 to improve the lives of expats in the Kingdom.

What are the permits used to transfer employees into the country?

The option available for employees working long term in the Kingdom is the work permit and Iqama, both are needed and enable the resident to do different things. The work permit is so you can legally work in the Kingdom and the Iqama is for you to be able to rent a house, open a bank account, put your children in education and other personal actions.

Employees enter the Kingdom under a work entry permit and will be granted a final work permit and Iqama once they have completed the in-country requirements. The work entry has a duration of stay of 90 days and users are unable to leave the country or work until they have obtained their final work permit and Iqama.

How long does it take to process visas?

Processing times for visas vary, depending on the industry of work permit, the country of application, the nationality of the applicant and if there are dependents.

If your company is applying from a block visa, this can take two to six weeks before it is processed depending on the size of the request, the type of visa and the Saudization rating of the company.

Once the individual has entered the country under a work visa, it may take one to two to three weeks to obtain a work permit and Iqama assuming all relevant documentation is current and has gone through the required procedures such as notarisation or attestation. However, if your profession requires extra accreditation, such as engineers or accountants, then it may take an additional two to three weeks.

Can an assignee enter the Kingdom on a commercial/tourist visa?

Holders of commercial and tourist visas are strictly prohibited from doing work in the Kingdom, this is restricted to holders of the Business Visit Visa or work permit.