Saudi Arabia's quota system and nationalization program can make the process of employing a foreign national relatively complex and restrictive. Applicable procedures involve a home-country consular process, followed by several post-arrival steps before final residency rights are granted.
Business travelers typically apply for a Business Visit Visa at a Saudi consular post once they receive a government-approved letter of invitation from a sponsor in Saudi Arabia. Business Visit Visas are usually valid for three months (single-entry) or 12 months (multiple-entry), or for up to five years (multiple-entry) for citizens of countries that signed bilateral visa agreements with Saudi Arabia. The maximum allowable duration of stay under a single-entry visa for three and six months is 30 days; for visas with other validities it is 90 days.
There is no longer a short-term work option in Saudi Arabia; for long-term work, foreign nationals can apply for a Work Permit and Resident ID Card, which is valid for up to one year with the possibility of extensions.
Detailed Immigration Snapshots, Document Lists and Process Guides are available to clients on request.