Relocation Timeline Generator
Your complete timeline for relocating to Saudi Arabia. Track every task from job acceptance to settling in.
Departure Date
Set your planned departure date to see target dates
Your Progress
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Accept Job Offer
Review and sign your employment contract. Ensure all terms match what was discussed.
Tips
- -Verify salary, benefits, housing allowance, and education allowance
- -Check contract duration and renewal terms
- -Understand visa sponsorship details
Gather Required Documents
Collect all original documents needed for visa application: degrees, certificates, birth certificates.
Tips
- -Make multiple copies of everything
- -Start attestation process early - it takes time
- -Check if translations are needed
Start Document Attestation
Begin the attestation process: Notary → State → Ministry of Foreign Affairs → Saudi Embassy.
Tips
- -This is often the longest part of the process
- -Consider using an attestation service for efficiency
- -Track each document separately
Complete Medical Examination
Visit a GAMCA-approved medical center for required health screening.
Tips
- -Find GAMCA-approved centers on their official website
- -Fast before blood tests
- -Medical report valid for 3 months
Obtain Police Clearance Certificate
Apply for police clearance from your home country and any country you lived in 6+ months.
Tips
- -Processing time varies by country
- -Valid for 6 months from issue date
- -Will need attestation
Visa Application Submitted
Your employer submits visa application with all attested documents.
Tips
- -Employer handles most of the Saudi-side processing
- -Stay in contact with HR for updates
Research Housing Options
Start researching neighborhoods, compounds, and housing options in your destination city.
Tips
- -Join expat Facebook groups for recommendations
- -Consider proximity to work and schools
- -Compare compound vs. off-compound living
Financial Planning & Budgeting
Create a relocation budget including flights, initial expenses, and emergency fund.
Tips
- -Budget for 2-3 months of expenses as emergency fund
- -Factor in initial housing deposits (often 3-12 months)
- -Plan for furniture and setup costs
Give Notice to Current Employer
Submit resignation to your current employer as per your contract terms.
Tips
- -Follow your contract notice period
- -Prepare handover documentation
- -Request reference letters
Research Schools (If Applicable)
Research and shortlist international schools for your children.
Tips
- -Popular schools have waiting lists - apply early
- -Request virtual tours
- -Compare curricula: American, British, IB, etc.
Receive Visa & Passport Stamping
Collect your visa from the Saudi Embassy and get your passport stamped.
Tips
- -Double-check all details on the visa are correct
- -Note the visa validity period
Book Flights
Book your flights to Saudi Arabia once visa is confirmed.
Tips
- -Book flexible tickets if possible
- -Check baggage allowances
- -Consider arrival timing (not during extreme heat if possible)
Arrange Shipping / Air Freight
Get quotes and arrange shipping for personal belongings if needed.
Tips
- -Sea freight takes 4-8 weeks, air freight 1-2 weeks
- -Check import restrictions for Saudi Arabia
- -Insure valuable items
Arrange Temporary Housing
Book temporary accommodation for your first few weeks while finding permanent housing.
Tips
- -Serviced apartments offer flexibility
- -Some employers provide temporary housing
- -Budget for 2-4 weeks minimum
Confirm Health Insurance
Verify your employer has arranged health insurance coverage from day one.
Tips
- -Health insurance is mandatory in Saudi Arabia
- -Check coverage details and network hospitals
- -Get emergency contact numbers
Set Up International Banking
Ensure you can access your home bank internationally and consider getting a multi-currency card.
Tips
- -Notify your bank of international travel
- -Get a Wise or Revolut card for better exchange rates
- -Know your daily ATM limits
Pack Essential Items
Pack items you'll need immediately - medicines, important documents, essential clothing.
Tips
- -Keep all original documents in carry-on
- -Bring 3-month supply of any medications
- -Pack weather-appropriate clothing
Final Pre-Departure Checklist
Complete final tasks: cancel subscriptions, redirect mail, inform contacts.
Tips
- -Cancel or pause subscriptions
- -Set up mail forwarding
- -Share itinerary with family
Download Essential Apps
Download apps you'll need: Absher, Tawakkalna, Uber, Careem, bank apps.
Tips
- -Absher: Government services portal
- -Tawakkalna: Digital ID and services
- -Uber/Careem: Transportation
Arrive in Saudi Arabia
Land at your destination airport and complete immigration procedures.
Tips
- -Have your job offer letter ready for immigration
- -Know your sponsor's contact details
- -Airport pickup should be arranged
Get Saudi SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card for calls, data, and app registration.
Tips
- -Main providers: STC, Mobily, Zain
- -Passport required for registration
- -Airport kiosks available but may be pricier
Iqama Processing Begins
Your employer initiates the Iqama (residence permit) application process.
Tips
- -Employer handles most of the process
- -You may need to visit Jawazat for fingerprints
- -Keep your passport safe - it may be held during processing
Open Saudi Bank Account
Open a local bank account for salary and daily transactions.
Tips
- -Popular banks: Al Rajhi, SNB, SABB
- -Need Iqama or letter from employer
- -Get debit card and set up mobile banking
Begin Housing Search
Start viewing properties and compounds for permanent housing.
Tips
- -Visit multiple neighborhoods
- -Check commute times during rush hour
- -Understand lease terms and payment structure
Receive Iqama
Collect your Iqama card - your official residence permit in Saudi Arabia.
Tips
- -Verify all details are correct
- -Register on Absher immediately
- -Keep a copy in a safe place
Register on Absher
Create your Absher account for accessing government services online.
Tips
- -Absher is essential for many services
- -You'll need it for family visa applications
- -Enable all security features
Obtain Saudi Driving License
Convert your international license or obtain a Saudi driving license.
Tips
- -Some nationalities can directly convert licenses
- -Others need to take a test
- -Get medical certificate first
Sign Housing Lease
Finalize and sign your permanent housing lease agreement.
Tips
- -Review lease carefully before signing
- -Understand payment terms
- -Document property condition at move-in
Enroll Children in School
Complete school registration and enrollment for your children.
Tips
- -Have all documents ready: birth certificates, previous school records
- -Understand uniform and supply requirements
- -Note term start dates
Explore Your Neighborhood
Get familiar with your area - shops, restaurants, healthcare facilities.
Tips
- -Locate nearest hospital and pharmacy
- -Find grocery stores and essentials
- -Discover local cafes and restaurants
Join Expat Communities
Connect with expat communities and professional networks.
Tips
- -Join Facebook groups for your nationality
- -Attend expat events
- -Network with colleagues
Need Help With Your Move?
Connect with expats who have been through the process and get personalized advice.