Gotta get an iqama!

Post new topic

Member since 01 September 2012

bilalboxMember01 September 2012 15:13:28

Hello,

I just joined the forum today because I'm trying to get a work visa here in KSA. I am currently on a business visit visa from a company called SCC, which has recently fallen into problems with the Ministry of Interior and is likely to go out of business soon. I have several job offers from other companies, but they all claim they cannot get me a work visa, that I must come with a transferrable iqama (I am a US citizen and network engineer).

Some people have mentioned that it's possible to get a work visa/iqama through individual Saudi's or small firms, then transfer to larger companies after a given time-frame (I hear 6 months and 2 years, not sure which). Do you have any guidance regarding that, or know if it's even possible?

Thank you so much, and may Allah bless you!

Nmuhammad Active member

Member since 17 July 2011

NmuhammadActive member02 September 2012 03:20:09

The reason they cant get you the visa is you are on a business visa. If you had an iqama they would transfer it if you had a NOL from your former employer.

However, even with that, I dont see why the new employer cant send you to Bahrain or Doah for a new visa, in their name. When I worked at PNU this happened all the time.
If I were you I would not want to spend 1000 bucks or more to pay for something your employer should do for free.

Articles to help you in your expat project in Saudi Arabia

Iqama visa in Saudi Arabia
To become a resident in Saudi Arabia, you will need to apply for a residence permit, also known as the Iqama. The ...
Visas in Saudi Arabia
Until September 2019, Saudi Arabia was officially a closed country. Tourists were allowed to visit it only ...
Everything you need to know as an expat woman in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia can be a challenging destination for women. As a strict Islamic country, Saudi Arabia imposes a lot ...
Dating in Saudi Arabia
If there was one adjective that could describe dating in Saudi Arabia, it would be the word 'discreet'. ...
Getting married in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a country that holds marriage and family as one of its core values. It is a privilege to get ...
Driving in Saudi Arabia
Driving in Saudi Arabia is the easiest and most convenient way to get around. That being said, expats in Saudi ...
Moving to Saudi Arabia with your pet
Saudi Arabia is governed by the Shari'a, which is the Islamic Law. According to Wahhabism, animals, and dogs, ...
Accommodation in Dammam
Dammam is the capital city of the Eastern Province, which is made up of smaller cities that, together, form the ...