MOFA Visa Saudi ArabiaTypes, Verification & Complete Process (2026)
Saudi visa applications and enquiries are handled through the official Saudi Visa platform operated under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), with requirements varying by visa type and authority. This guide explains every visa type, how to verify your visa status, the documents you need, and the exact steps to apply for a Saudi work visa.
What is a MOFA visa and how do I verify it?
A MOFA visa is a Saudi Arabia entry visa issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (وزارة الخارجية). To verify your visa status, visit visa.mofa.gov.sa and enter your visa reference number and passport details. MOFA visas cover work, visit, family, Umrah, and business travel into the Kingdom.
Open MOFA Visa Verification PortalWho handles what in the Saudi visa process?
Several authorities are involved depending on your visa type and stage:
| Entity | What it handles | Portal |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Visa / MOFA | Visa authorization and verification | visa.mofa.gov.sa / ksavisa.sa |
| Saudi embassy / VFS | Passport submission and stamping | Local embassy / VFS center |
| Employer | Work visa authorization | hrsd.gov.sa |
| Jawazat / Absher | Residency / iqama after arrival | absher.sa |
| Visit Saudi | Tourist eVisa eligibility | visitsaudi.com |
By the Saudi Expats Editorial Team. Last updated 31 May 2026.
Requirements and processing times vary by nationality, embassy, and visa type. Confirm with the Saudi embassy, Saudi Visa platform, VFS center, or authorised visa agent before applying.
Official sources: Saudi Visa / MOFA, ksavisa.sa, Visit Saudi, HRSD, Absher.
Saudi Arabia Visa Types (MOFA) — 2026
Saudi visa applications are handled through the official Saudi Visa platform operated under MOFA, with requirements varying by visa type and authority. The main categories are:
Work / Employment Visa
تأشيرة العملPurpose
For foreigners employed by a Saudi company or institution.
Validity
1–3 months (single entry). Iqama issued after arrival.
Entries
Single entry (usually)
Employer initiates the process through MOFA. Most common visa for expats.
Visit Visa
تأشيرة الزيارةPurpose
Tourism, family visits, and short business stays.
Validity
Up to 1 year, 90 days per stay.
Entries
Multiple entry
Tourist eVisa eligibility currently covers 66 countries; check the official Saudi Visa or Visit Saudi portal before applying. No sponsor required.
Family Visa
تأشيرة العائلةPurpose
For spouses and dependants of iqama holders.
Validity
Up to 1 year; renewable to match sponsor's iqama.
Entries
Multiple entry
For family visit visas, residents apply through the official Saudi Visa/MOFA platform; dependent residence procedures may involve the sponsor/employer and Jawazat/Absher depending on the case.
Umrah Visa
تأشيرة العمرةPurpose
For Muslims travelling to perform Umrah.
Validity
30 days
Entries
Single entry
Issued through authorised Hajj and Umrah operators. Not for employment.
Business Visa
تأشيرة الأعمالPurpose
For short-term business activities, meetings, and conferences.
Validity
Up to 3 months
Entries
Single or multiple entry
Requires invitation letter from a Saudi company registered with MOFA.
Premium Residency (Iqama Premium)
الإقامة المميزةPurpose
Long-term residency for high-net-worth individuals.
Validity
5-year or permanent options available
Entries
Multiple entry; no sponsor required
Issued under the Premium Residency scheme with one-off and annual fee options (confirm current fees with the Premium Residency Center). Allows ownership of property and business.
How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia Work Visa (Step by Step)
The Saudi work visa process involves both your employer in Saudi Arabia and the Saudi embassy in your home country. Here is the complete process:
Employer obtains MOFA approval
Your Saudi employer logs into the MOFA portal and submits a visa request, providing your personal details, job title, and nationality. MOFA issues a visa number (رقم التأشيرة).
Employer sends you the MOFA visa number
You receive a visa number from your employer. Use this to book an appointment at the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate, or through VFS Global where available.
Attestation of documents
Educational certificates and, in some countries, police clearance certificates must be attested by your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and then by the Saudi embassy. Allow 4–8 weeks for this.
Medical fitness test
A medical fitness test is required in many countries, typically covering communicable diseases. Tests must be done at GAMCA-approved clinics.
Submit application at embassy / consulate
Submit your passport, visa application form, MOFA visa number confirmation, attested documents, photos, and medical fitness certificate. Pay the visa fee.
Receive visa and travel
Processing takes 5–15 working days. Your visa is stamped in your passport. Travel to Saudi Arabia within the visa validity period (typically 3 months from issue date).
Employer applies for iqama
Within 90 days of arrival, your employer completes the required work-permit and residency procedures. The resident identity is issued through the relevant Saudi government systems and Jawazat after requirements are met. The iqama replaces your visa as your primary ID.
Required Documents for a Saudi Work Visa
Exact requirements vary by nationality. The following checklist applies to most applicants:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- Completed Saudi visa application form (from embassy or MOFA portal)
- Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, no glasses)
- MOFA visa reference number provided by your Saudi employer
- Original employment contract or offer letter (on company letterhead)
- Educational certificates attested by your country's MFA and Saudi embassy
- Police clearance certificate (apostilled or attested as required)
- Medical fitness certificate from a GAMCA-approved clinic
- Visa fee payment receipt (varies by nationality and visa type)
Attestation Warning
Document attestation (educational certificates and police clearance) is a multi-stage process that can take 4–8 weeks. Start this process before your employer submits the MOFA visa request. Delays in attestation are the most common reason work visa applications stall.
MOFA Visa Saudi Arabia — FAQs
What is MOFA in Saudi Arabia?
MOFA stands for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (وزارة الخارجية) of Saudi Arabia. Saudi visa applications and enquiries are handled through the official Saudi Visa platform operated under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with requirements varying by visa type and authority. Visa workflows can also involve Saudi embassies, VFS centers, employers, and Jawazat after arrival.
How do I verify my MOFA visa for Saudi Arabia?
Visit the official MOFA portal at visa.mofa.gov.sa and enter your visa number or reference number along with your date of birth or passport number. The system displays your visa type, validity dates, permitted entries, and current status.
How long does a Saudi Arabia work visa take to process?
Saudi Arabia work visa processing typically takes 5–15 working days once all documents are submitted to the Saudi embassy or consulate. Processing times vary by nationality and embassy workload. VFS Global and authorised agencies in some countries can expedite submissions.
Can I convert a visit visa to a work visa inside Saudi Arabia?
No. Saudi Arabia does not allow conversion from a tourist or visit visa to a work visa while inside the Kingdom. You must leave and apply for the correct work visa through your employer and the Saudi embassy in your home country. Working on a visit visa is illegal and risks deportation.
What is the difference between a work visa and an iqama?
The MOFA work visa is issued before you travel and allows you to enter Saudi Arabia to take up employment. The iqama (residence permit) is issued after you arrive and is applied for by your employer. The iqama is your long-term residency document and replaces the visa sticker in your passport as your primary Saudi ID.
What nationalities can get a Saudi eVisa?
Tourist eVisa eligibility currently covers 66 countries; always check the official Saudi Visa or Visit Saudi portal before applying. Eligible nationalities include most European Union countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and others. The eVisa is for tourism only and does not authorise employment.