How to Apply for the Saudi Skilled Worker Visa 2025: Eligibility, Jobs & Process

Saudi Arabia is fast becoming a top destination for skilled professionals as the Kingdom accelerates its Vision 2030 economic transformation. The 2025 reforms introduced a new skill-based permit system and digital application tools that make it easier for qualified foreign workers to join sectors such as healthcare, construction, IT, oil & gas, education, tourism and finance.

Why consider the Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker Visa is designed for foreign professionals sponsored by registered Saudi employers. It offers several clear advantages:

• Tax-free salaries — higher net take-home pay compared with many countries.
• Career growth — roles tied to major investment projects and private sector expansion under Vision 2030 (vision2030.gov.sa).
• Family sponsorship — many skilled categories allow dependents to join the worker in the Kingdom.
• Pathway to long-term residency — strong performance and continued employment can lead to eligibility for Premium Residency (premiumresidency.sa).

What is the Skilled Worker Visa?

In simple terms, the Skilled Worker Visa is a temporary work permit for foreign professionals who receive sponsorship from an employer registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD). Key facts:

• Validity: Typically 1–2 years and renewable.
• Iqama linkage: Upon arrival, the visa is converted into an Iqama (residency permit) that gives access to healthcare, banking and other services.
• Digitized process: Employers manage requests and documentation through the Qiwa platform (qiwa.sa).

Top sectors hiring skilled workers

Demand for professionals is strong across several sectors aligned with national development priorities:

• Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, specialists, lab technicians.
• Construction & Engineering: Civil engineers, project managers, site supervisors.
• Information Technology: Software developers, cybersecurity experts, data engineers.
• Oil & Gas: Petroleum engineers, geologists, drilling specialists.
• Education: Teachers, lecturers, administrators.
• Hospitality & Tourism: Hotel managers, chefs, event planners.
• Finance: Accountants, analysts, internal auditors.

Who can apply? (Eligibility)

General eligibility criteria for the Skilled Worker Visa in 2025 include:

• Valid job offer from a Saudi employer registered with HRSD.
• Relevant qualifications and experience — most roles require a degree or vocational diploma plus 2–5 years’ relevant experience (varies by role).
• Age requirements: Minimum 21 years; Basic tier roles often cap at 60 years. High-Skilled and Skilled tiers may have more flexible age considerations.
• Health and security clearances: Pass a medical exam at an approved clinic and provide a police clearance certificate.
• Employer sponsorship: Your employer (kafeel) handles the visa authorization and Iqama issuance.

Step-by-step application process (2025)

1. Secure a job offer from a Saudi employer registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD).
2. Employer requests authorization via HRSD and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Employers use the Qiwa platform to manage steps: upload contracts, choose the skill tier and pay fees (Qiwa).
3. Receive a visa authorization slip or code from your employer.
4. Undergo medical examinations at a clinic approved by the Saudi embassy in your country.
5. Submit visa application and supporting documents at the Saudi embassy or consulate.
6. Travel to Saudi Arabia once your visa is approved.
7. Employer secures your Iqama within 90 days of arrival so you can start work and access services.
8. Begin employment under your signed contract.

Key 2025 updates you should know

The Kingdom’s 2025 reforms introduced a standardized, skill-based classification and new digital tools to manage permits:

• Three skill tiers: High-Skilled, Skilled and Basic. Classification depends on occupation, salary, education and experience. High-skilled roles typically require a degree, professional accreditation and higher salary thresholds.
• Rollout dates: Reclassification for existing expatriates began July 5, 2025. All new hires follow the new system from August 3, 2025.
• Professional verification: Some occupations need qualification or skills verification through official Saudi programs.
• Salary thresholds & family sponsorship: Wage requirements determine whether you can sponsor family. Typically, workers earning SAR 5,000–10,000+ per month have dependent sponsorship privileges (check current thresholds on HRSD/Qiwa).
• Fees: Temporary work visa fees are commonly SAR 1,000 (~USD 266) plus standard medical and insurance costs. Employers usually manage these during the hiring process.
• Official platforms: Monitor HRSD and MOFA for updates: hrsd.gov.sa and mofa.gov.sa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the three skill tiers?

High-Skilled (higher education, accreditation, higher wages), Skilled (mid-level qualifications and wages), and Basic (roles with lower wage thresholds and sometimes age caps). The Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations guides which jobs fall into each tier.

Which jobs are High-Skilled?

Often includes doctors, senior engineers, IT specialists, and executive-level roles that require a bachelor’s degree or higher, professional accreditation, and competitive salaries (for example, SAR 15,000/month or more for many positions—subject to official updates).

How do employers apply?

Employers use the Qiwa platform to submit contracts, select skill tiers, upload documents and pay fees. Applicants should stay in close contact with their employer throughout the process (qiwa.sa).

Practical tips for applicants

• Verify credentials early: Start any required certificate or degree verification before your employer initiates the visa process.
• Keep documents ready: Passport, degree certificates, work references, police clearance, and medical records.
• Understand your contract: Confirm salary, benefits, accommodation, health insurance and family sponsorship terms in writing.
• Use official sources: Official government pages and Qiwa contain the most up-to-date rules—consult HRSD, MOFA and Qiwa.

Final thoughts

The Saudi Skilled Worker Visa 2025 presents a substantial opportunity for professionals ready to participate in the Kingdom’s economic transformation. The digitalization of permit management and the skill-based classification aim to streamline hiring while aligning talent with national priorities. To maximize your chance of success, prepare verified credentials, coordinate closely with your employer, and monitor HRSD and MOFA for any policy updates.

For official guidance and the latest procedural details, visit: HRSD, Qiwa, MOFA, and Vision 2030.