Saudi Arabia: Several Consular Posts Now Require Monkeypox Testing for Certain Visa Applications

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 – which is expected to be introduced in other countries shortly – will increase onboarding time and monetary costs for foreign workers in Saudi Arabia, due to testing-related delays and fees.