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Saudi Arabia has officially implemented a new skill-based classification system for work visas. This change affects all foreign workers, including UK nationals, who plan to take up employment in the Kingdom.
If you are a British professional moving to Saudi Arabia or a UK company sponsoring staff, it’s important to understand how the system works. This guide explains the rules now in place, the skill categories, and how to apply for a Saudi work visa from the UK.
Saudi Arabia’s Updated Work Visa System
Since August 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has made skill-based classification mandatory for all new work permits that lead to an Iqama residency card.
The previous “professional vs. non-professional” model no longer applies. Instead, every foreign worker is classified under one of three skill tiers, aligned with the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations (SSCO).
This system is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider Vision 2030 strategy, which focuses on building a competitive, knowledge-based economy.
The Three Skill Categories
Foreign nationals applying for a Saudi employment visa, including those from the UK, are now placed into one of three groups:
High-Skilled
- Roles: Doctors, engineers, IT specialists, executives
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field
Minimum 5 years of experience
Salary of SAR 15,000+ per month
Must pass HRSD’s points-based system
Verified and attested documents
Skilled
- Roles: Technicians, supervisors, certified craftsmen
Requirements:
Secondary education or vocational certificate
Minimum 2 years of experience
Salary between SAR 7,000 – 14,999
Basic
- Roles: Entry-level and manual labor jobs
Requirements:
No formal education required
Must be under 60 years of age
Salary between SAR 3,000 – 6,999
Employers must use Qiwa, Saudi Arabia’s official labor portal, to classify each role correctly. Incorrect classification can result in penalties or restrictions on hiring.
Unchanged Requirements for Saudi Work Visa from the UK
Despite the new classification, the overall Saudi work visa process for UK applicants remains familiar:
Applications are submitted through Qiwa (for approvals) and Muqeem (for Iqama and residency services).
Saudization (Nitaqat) quotas remain in force.
Employers must hold a valid Commercial Registration (CR) and comply with the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Sponsorship by a Saudi-registered employer is still required.
Iqama transfers are possible under set conditions, such as completing one year with the current employer.
Applying for a Saudi Work Visa from the UK
Here’s how the process now works:
Employer Sponsorship – A Saudi-based company applies for the work permit via Qiwa.
Job Classification – The role is placed under the correct skill tier (High-Skilled, Skilled, or Basic).
Contract Submission – An employment contract is uploaded in line with HRSD rules.
Document Legalisation – UK qualifications and certificates are notarised, legalised in the UK, and attested by the Saudi Embassy in London.
Visa Stamping in the UK – The applicant applies for visa stamping at the Saudi consulate in London.
Arrival in Saudi Arabia – Medical checks and biometrics are completed, and the Iqama residency card is issued.
The Saudi work visa from the UK is now firmly based on qualifications, experience, and skills. For UK professionals, this means preparing the right documents and ensuring they meet the requirements of the relevant category. For employers, it requires careful role classification and compliance with Saudi labor regulations.
With these changes in effect, UK workers and companies can continue to access opportunities in Saudi Arabia while aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.
At Saudi and Gulf Visa Services Limited, we understand how important it is to get your Saudi work visa processed quickly and correctly. That’s why we handle the legalisation, embassy steps, and sponsorship requirements for you. Talk to our team today and make your move to Saudi Arabia simple.
