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Should I get a Visa with 'Labor' profession stamped?

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narendravs

Hello, everyone. I have recently accepted Managerial position with my location being Riyadh. However, I came to know that the company is only willing to send me to Riyadh on a 'Labor' visa and then change my profession in my Iqama. My questions are:

Should I agree to get a 'Labor' profession stamped on my passport?

If I agree, what will be the repercussions if and when I apply for any educational course or job outside of KSA?

Will the difference between Passport profession and my experience be an issue?

Also, I have heard that a major crackdown on Non-Saudis' is going on due to the recent 'Saudization'. Is this true?

Thanks in advance for any information and advice.

Muhammad Aamer

There's absolutely no issue to accept low category Iqama Visa. And it can easily be changed within few weeks from the date of your joining. The reason behind offering the low category profession is only to cut the Visa process short (Labor Visa doesn't need any Degree/certificates to be submitted in Saudi Embassy). And, if you want to come on Engineer/higher profession, you need your degree attested by Saudi embassy and Culture office in your country. Which is lengthy process, can be done later as well. The only issue with labor Visa is that you cant apply for your family permanent visa until you have changed your profession.
Rest Saudization is always ongoing process, a good employer can cover everything for you.

narendravs

Thanks for the reply, Muhammed. I have seen and read on the internet that having a Labor Visa on your passport may result in companies or Universities rejecting your application. Is this true?

chaddyqui

I had the same situation as you but they changed it eventually. You can do the same as mine.

narendravs

Thanks for the reply, chaddyqui. Well, I am sure they will change the Visa but does not mean that the previous stamped will be deleted. And some companies as well as Universities verify your passport before admission.

chaddyqui

I think they will no longer check on to the stamps or visas on the passport. What they will check is your basic info on it. Not sure though but still up to you.

Muhammad Aamer

Actually, you leave your Degree/Certificate in your home country and any authorized agent will get your degree attested from Saudi Embassy & Culture upon receiving your Saudi employer's letter (stamped from Saudi Chamber of Commerce).
Saudi Embassy & Culture office has no concern about your existing profession (type of Visa). It is completely smooth & safe process.
P.s By profession, I am a Recruiter based in Saudi

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