Saudi Arabia: Several Consular Posts Now Require Monkeypox Testing for Certain Visa Applications
January 11, 2024

The following Saudi consular posts now require applicants to submit proof of a negative monkeypox test result from an approved medical center as part of any work or residence visa application: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Lebanon, Malaysia, Netherlands, Poland, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. Some consular posts (such as Canada) now also require such tests as part of applications for other visa types (including student and family visa applications). Furthermore, many consular posts require (such as Germany and the United States) that the test results were issued within 21 days prior to submission of the visa application. It is currently unclear whether individuals will also need to show a recent negative monkeypox test result as a requirement for entering Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it is currently unclear if this new requirement extends to business visit visa applications. Fragomen is conferring with Saudi authorities to confirm the position.
Depending on the country, the results may need to be attested, with such attestation requirements varying across jurisdiction. Some consular posts may require attestation by local health practitioners offices or hospitals; others may allow the use of the legalization process under the Apostille Convention. Affected applicants should contact their Fragomen representative to confirm their country-specific process. This new requirement β which is expected to be introduced in other countries shortly β will increase onboarding time and monetary costs for foreign workers in Saudi Arabia, due to testing-related delays and fees.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen

Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses how Qatar is implementing a strategic vision to develop a workforce that is prepared for future challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of skilled migration in addressing gaps in the local workforce.

Media mentions
Partners Aaron Blumberg and Daniel Pierce discuss the SEVIS reversal and the continued challenges US international students may face.

Video
Practice Leader Kate Praphakornphiphat discusses Thailandβs Digital Nomad Visaβofficially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)βand how you can apply for it.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explains that children of H-1B visa holders must secure a new legal status or leave the US when their H-4 dependent visas expire at age 21.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner discusses unusual biometrics requests in H-1B and I-140 cases, noting they depart from standard practice.

Blog post
Regional Immigration Manager David Makau provides essential information about the launch of Bahrain's new Golden Visa portal, highlighting key details for applicants.

Video
Partner Diana Quintas shares everything you need to know about Brazilβs Digital Nomad Visa β a great option for remote workers looking to live and work in Brazil.

Media mentions
Partner Haseena Enu discussed her role in a pilot program mentoring Afghan legal professionals as they rebuild their careers in the US.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explained that SEVIS terminations are creating uncertainty for international students in the US and their employers.

Media mentions
Partner Amy Cococcia discusses the impact of tightened US immigration policies on work visa processing.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner comments on USCISβs atypical RFEs citing βadverse informationβ in employment-based petitions.

Blog post
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how obtaining a business investor permit in Luxembourg can provide significant opportunities for accessing European markets and fostering business growth.

Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses how Qatar is implementing a strategic vision to develop a workforce that is prepared for future challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of skilled migration in addressing gaps in the local workforce.

Media mentions
Partners Aaron Blumberg and Daniel Pierce discuss the SEVIS reversal and the continued challenges US international students may face.

Video
Practice Leader Kate Praphakornphiphat discusses Thailandβs Digital Nomad Visaβofficially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)βand how you can apply for it.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explains that children of H-1B visa holders must secure a new legal status or leave the US when their H-4 dependent visas expire at age 21.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner discusses unusual biometrics requests in H-1B and I-140 cases, noting they depart from standard practice.

Blog post
Regional Immigration Manager David Makau provides essential information about the launch of Bahrain's new Golden Visa portal, highlighting key details for applicants.

Video
Partner Diana Quintas shares everything you need to know about Brazilβs Digital Nomad Visa β a great option for remote workers looking to live and work in Brazil.

Media mentions
Partner Haseena Enu discussed her role in a pilot program mentoring Afghan legal professionals as they rebuild their careers in the US.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explained that SEVIS terminations are creating uncertainty for international students in the US and their employers.

Media mentions
Partner Amy Cococcia discusses the impact of tightened US immigration policies on work visa processing.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner comments on USCISβs atypical RFEs citing βadverse informationβ in employment-based petitions.

Blog post
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how obtaining a business investor permit in Luxembourg can provide significant opportunities for accessing European markets and fostering business growth.