Saudi Work Visa Process from India: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
If you're planning to take up a job opportunity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, you're not alone. Every year, thousands of Indians move to Saudi Arabia for employment in sectors like construction, healthcare, IT, oil & gas, hospitality, and more. However, before you can begin your professional journey, it's important to understand the Saudi work visa process from India in detail. This blog will guide you step-by-step, covering everything from documents to processing time—and how BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd can make the entire process faster and smoother for you.
Why Work in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is one of the largest employers of Indian workers in the Middle East. The country offers tax-free income, better salary packages, free accommodation in many jobs, and a chance to gain valuable international work experience. From skilled professionals to general workers, Saudi Arabia offers numerous job opportunities across sectors.
But before you can board your flight, you'll need to go through the official visa process, which involves several steps including a job offer, documentation, attestation, and embassy approvals.
What is a Saudi Work Visa?
A Saudi work visa is a type of employment visa issued to foreign nationals who have secured a job in Saudi Arabia. The visa allows the holder to legally live and work in the Kingdom for a fixed period—usually 1 to 2 years, with the possibility of renewal.
This is different from a tourist or business visa, as it is tied to an employment contract and requires sponsorship from a Saudi employer.
Saudi Work Visa Process from India – Step by Step
Here's a simple and easy-to-understand breakdown of the Saudi work visa process from India:
Step 1: Job Offer from a Saudi Employer
The first step is getting a valid job offer from a company or sponsor based in Saudi Arabia. Your employer must be registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) in Saudi Arabia.
Step 2: Visa Approval from Saudi Arabia (Block Visa)
Once the job is confirmed, your employer will apply for a Block Visa quota through the Saudi Ministry of Labor. This includes specifying the job title, nationality, and number of visas.
Once approved, the visa authorization (Visa Slip) is issued and sent to the Saudi Embassy in India electronically.
Step 3: Document Collection from the Candidate
Now, you'll need to gather the following documents:
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- 6 passport-size photos (white background)
- Original and attested educational/professional certificates
- Medical fitness certificate
- Police clearance certificate (PCC)
- Employment contract copy
- Visa slip and sponsor ID
- Resume/CV
- Experience letters (if applicable)
Step 4: Document Attestation
Before submission, your educational and professional certificates must be attested by the following authorities:
- Notary
- HRD or State Home Department
- MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), India
- Saudi Culture Office
- Saudi Embassy in India
This process can be time-consuming and confusing, which is why many applicants choose to hire visa experts like BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd for smooth processing and error-free documentation.
Step 5: Medical Test
You'll need to undergo a medical examination from a GAMCA (Gulf Approved Medical Centers Association) authorized center. Only a “fit” medical status will be accepted for visa approval.
Step 6: Visa Stamping
Once all documents and medical reports are ready, the application is submitted to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate for visa stamping. This is the final step of the visa process before travel.
Processing time: 7 to 10 working days
Step 7: Emigration Clearance (for ECR Passports)
If you have an ECR (Emigration Check Required) passport, you'll need to get emigration clearance from the Protector of Emigrants (POE).
Documents needed:
- Visa copy
- Employment contract
- Medical certificate
- Insurance (as per Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana)
Step 8: Flight Booking and Travel
Once your visa is stamped and all clearances are done, you're ready to travel! Your employer may send a ticket or you may book your own flight.
Make sure to carry all original documents while traveling.
Saudi Work Visa Fees
The visa fee depends on the profession, employer category, and other conditions. In general:
- Visa stamping fee: Around INR 4,000 – INR 6,000
- Medical test: INR 4,500 – INR 6,000
- Attestation and documentation: Varies depending on service provider
Processing Time
From job offer to visa stamping, the full process usually takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on document readiness and employer processing speed.
Tips for a Smooth Visa Process
- Keep all your documents in original and scanned form
- Apply early to avoid last-minute delays
- Choose a trusted and experienced visa consultant
- Ensure all information in the visa form matches your passport
- Follow up regularly with your employer for updates
Still confused? That's where BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd comes in. With years of experience and thousands of successful visa applications, they can handle everything from document attestation to medical booking, visa form filling, and embassy coordination.
Why Choose BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd?
Here's how BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd can help:
✅ Complete guidance for Saudi work visa process
✅ Professional support with documentation and attestation
✅ Appointment booking with GAMCA medical centers
✅ End-to-end coordination with embassy and consulate
✅ Quick and affordable service with real-time updates
With their expert support, you save time, avoid errors, and stay stress-free throughout your visa journey.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Saudi Arabia for work is a big and exciting decision. But the Saudi work visa process from India involves multiple steps, from job offers and medical tests to document attestation and embassy approval. With the right planning and guidance, you can complete the process efficiently and confidently.
And if you want expert help at every stage, choose BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd—India's trusted partner for all visa needs. They'll handle the process for you while you focus on preparing for your new job and life abroad.