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Visa &
Immigration

Navigating the Ministry of Human Resources (Qiwa) and Muqeem can be complex. We handle the entire lifecycle of investor and employee mobility.

Securing the right visas and managing ongoing immigration compliance is arguably the most critical operational aspect of running a business in Saudi Arabia. From the moment your company is incorporated, your ability to deploy staff, leadership, and family depends on seamless navigation of government portals like Qiwa and Muqeem.

We provide end-to-end Government Relations (GRO) support, ensuring your team arrives on time and stays compliant with evolving labor laws.

Core Mobility Solutions

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Investor & GM Visas Expedited processing for leadership to ensure immediate on-ground presence post-incorporation.
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Employment Block Visas Full management of visa quotas and block issuance via the Qiwa platform for scaling teams.
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Family & Dependents Sponsorship transfer, medical insurance coordination, and Iqama issuance for families.
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Medical & Insurance Coordination with CCHI-approved providers to issue compliant medical policies.
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Ajeer & Transfers Legal temporary work permits (Ajeer) and sponsorship transfers between entities.
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Exit/Re-Entry Management Issuance and cancellation of single/multi exit re-entry visas for all staff.

Strategic Saudization (Nitaqat)

Nitaqat is the Saudi nationalization scheme. Your company's ability to renew visas and licenses depends on maintaining a 'Green' or 'Platinum' rating by hiring a compliant ratio of Saudi nationals.

We don't just process visas; we plan your headcount to ensure sustainability:

Headcount Planning: Forecasting the required number of Saudi nationals vs. expats based on your license activities.
Staffing Solutions: Assisting in the recruitment of qualified Saudi talent to meet Nitaqat requirements.
Status Recovery: Remedial action plans for companies in the 'Red' or 'Low Green' zones to restore operational privileges.

Key Outcomes

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Iqama (Residency) Full issuance and annual renewal management for all staff.

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Company File (700 File) Establishment of your labor file at the Ministry of Interior.

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Qiwa & Muqeem Setup Registration and training on the government's primary HR portals.

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Nitaqat Compliance Monthly tracking to ensure your Saudization rating remains Green.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the company must be fully incorporated (CR and Tax registered) and have a file opened with the Ministry of Human Resources before employment visas can be issued. However, investors can often use a Business Visit Visa for initial setup travel.

Once the employee enters Saudi Arabia, the medical test and Iqama issuance typically take 5-7 working days, assuming all insurance and fee payments are cleared.

Costs vary by profession and nationality. They generally include government visa fees, medical insurance, and the "Levy" (work permit fee) which is recurring annually.

Yes, but they technically require their sponsorship to be transferred to an employer to work legally. Recent regulations have made this easier, but they cannot work simply on a "Dependent" status.

If you fall to Red, you will be blocked from renewing Iqamas, issuing new visas, and potentially accessing other government services. Immediate remedial action (hiring Saudis) is required.

Need to Scale Your Team?

Speak to our GRO experts to plan your block visa and Saudization strategy.