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Work Visa / Iqama
Saudi Arabia Work Visa for Nepali Workers
Saudi Arabia work visa (Iqama) is the largest employment program for Nepali workers. Vision 2030 mega-projects create massive demand. Saudi offers tax-free income, free accommodation, and strong savings potential.
Processing Time
45-60 days
Validity
2 years
Worker Cost
NPR 12,000-18,000
Renewable
Yes
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: 21-60 years (stricter than other Gulf countries)
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- GAMCA medical clearance
- Job offer from Saudi employer
- Clean criminal record
- Skills matching the job offer
Required Documents
Valid Passport
Original with minimum 6 months validity
Required
Passport Photos
8 passport photos, white background
Required
Educational Certificates
Attested by MoE, MoFA, and Saudi Embassy
Required
GAMCA Medical
From GCC-approved medical center
Required
Police Clearance
From Nepal, not older than 6 months
Required
Employment Contract
Bilingual (English/Arabic), signed
Required
DOFE Approval
Labor permit from Nepal government
Required
Visa Process Steps
Complete process from application to arrival
1
Job Selection
1-3 weeks
Interview and selection by Saudi employer
2
Block Visa Issuance
1-2 weeks
Employer obtains work authorization
3
Document Preparation
2-3 weeks
Attestation from all required authorities
4
GAMCA Medical
3-5 days
Complete medical at approved center
5
Visa Stamping
1-2 weeks
Visa stamped at Saudi Embassy
6
DOFE Clearance
2-3 days
Final approval from Labor Department
7
Pre-Departure Orientation
1 day
Mandatory training
8
Travel & Iqama
2-4 weeks
Arrive in Saudi, receive Iqama within 90 days
Visa Costs Breakdown
Paid by Worker
GAMCA MedicalNPR 5,000-7,000
Police ClearanceNPR 500-1,000
Document AttestationNPR 5,000-8,000
Pre-Departure TrainingNPR 1,500-2,500
Total Worker Cost
NPR 12,000-18,000 (approximately)
Paid by Employer
Visa FeeSAR 500-800
Iqama (Residence)SAR 650/year
Work PermitSAR 400/year
Medical InsuranceSAR 500-1,500/year
Frontline follows zero-fee recruitment policy
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake
Age limit
Solution
Saudi requires 21+ years (some jobs 25+)
Mistake
Attestation levels
Solution
Documents need 3-level attestation: MoE, MoFA, Saudi Embassy
Mistake
Iqama delay
Solution
Ensure employer processes Iqama within 90 days
Expert Tips
- Vision 2030 projects have highest demand and best pay
- Riyadh and Jeddah have better living conditions
- Learn basic Arabic - helps in daily life
- Save during Eid bonuses - can be full month salary
- Register with Nepal Embassy after arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
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