Skilled Worker Visa allows qualified foreign professionals to live and work legally in Saudi/Representative Image
Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a top destination for skilled workers, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. The Kingdom is welcoming foreign professionals across sectors such as healthcare, construction, IT, oil & gas, education, tourism, and finance. The Skilled Worker Visa offers a clear pathway to live and work in Saudi Arabia, enjoying tax-free income, career growth, and family sponsorship opportunities in a vibrant and fast-growing economy.TL;DR:
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Applicants must have a confirmed job offer, relevant qualifications and experience, be aged 21 or older, and pass medical and police clearance checks.
Who is Eligible?
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Relevant academic degrees or certifications with 2-5 years experience in the field.
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Minimum age 21; most employers prefer candidates under 55 but may make exceptions.
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- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Employer applies for work visa authorization from HRSD and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Travel to Saudi Arabia once visa is approved.
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Start working under the terms of the employment contract.
Important considerations for 2025
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Workers meeting salary thresholds, SAR 5,000–10,000/month ($1,332-$2,664), can sponsor family members on dependent visas.
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> The Kingdom offers a tax-free environment, fast career growth, and potential access to Premium Residency allowing work and residency without sponsorship.
The Saudi Skilled Worker Visa presents an exceptional opportunity for professionals worldwide to contribute to the Kingdom’s transformation under Vision 2030. Adequately preparing with required documents, medical checks, and employer cooperation will smooth the pathway to launching a rewarding career and new life in Saudi Arabia.
FAQ
Q. What are the new skill-based work permit categories in Saudi Arabia?Saudi Arabia categorizes work permits into High-Skilled, Skilled, and Basic tiers based on qualifications, experience, salary, and age.Q. When did this new visa classification system take effect?The system started for existing expatriates on July 5, 2025, and applies to new hires from August 3, 2025.Q. What types of jobs fall under the High-Skilled visa category?High-Skilled roles include doctors, engineers, IT specialists, corporate executives, requiring a bachelor’s degree or above and a minimum salary of SAR 15,000.Q. How do employers apply for the new work permits?Employers must use the Qiwa platform to submit employment contracts, select skill tiers, upload necessary documents, and pay applicable fees for visa approval. Go to Source
