A Complete Guide to Saudi Arabia Work Visa Processing in Pakistan
Saudi Arabia is a top destination for job seekers from Pakistan. Thousands of workers travel to the Kingdom each year for employment opportunities. However, obtaining a Saudi work visa requires a systematic process that includes multiple steps such as documentation, verification, and approval from various authorities. If you are looking for a KSA Saudi Arabia visa processing agency in Pakistan, this guide will help you understand the complete process from start to finish.
Step 1: Obtaining Wakala from Saudi Arabia
The first step in processing a Saudi work visa is obtaining a Wakala (power of attorney) from the employer in Saudi Arabia. The employer must issue a Wakala on their company’s license. This document authorizes a recruitment agency or an individual in Pakistan to process the work visa application.
Step 2: Generating the E-Number
Once the Wakala is received, the next step is generating an E-Number (electronic number). This is a crucial part of the process and is required for further documentation and verification. To obtain an E-Number, the applicant must provide the following scanned documents:
- National Identity Card (CNIC)
- Passport (clear scanned copy)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
The applicant sends these documents to their agent or visa processing agency, which then generates the E-Number and provides it to the applicant.
Step 3: Biometric Verification at Etimad Office
After obtaining the E-Number, the applicant must visit the Etimad Visa Services Office for biometric verification and medical examination. The Etimad Office in Lahore is located at Eden Villas, Multan Road, Thokar Niaz Baig. To complete this step:
- Visit the Etimad Office with your passport and E-Number.
- Undergo fingerprinting and biometric scanning.
- Complete the required medical examination at an authorized medical center.
The medical examination results are submitted online, and the applicant receives two slips after biometric verification, which must be attached to the visa application file.
Step 4: Collecting and Organizing Required Documents
The next step involves compiling all required documents and submitting them to the visa agent or the processing office. The following documents must be included:
- Original Passport (along with any previous passports)
- National Identity Card (CNIC)
- Passport-sized photographs (6–8 copies with a white background)
- Nominee Copy (ID card copy of a family member, such as a brother, father, or mother, required for insurance purposes)
- Medical Report (issued after completing the medical examination)
- Biometric Slips (issued by the Etimad Office after fingerprinting)
- Bank Account Details
All these documents must be attached in an organized file and sent to the visa processing agency.
Step 5: Visa Processing and Embassy Submission
Once the file is completed, it is sent to the Saudi Embassy for visa approval. The embassy verifies the submitted documents and processes the visa application. This step can take anywhere between one to two weeks.
Step 6: Protector Office Verification
After the visa is approved, the next step is to get the Protector Stamp. The applicant must visit the Protector Office in Lahore, located at Metro Cash & Carry, G-Block, Model Town. At the Protector Office:
- Submit all required documents.
- Undergo fingerprinting and verification.
- Receive the Protector Stamp and sticker on the passport.
This step is mandatory for all workers traveling abroad for employment, as it ensures their legal status as overseas workers.
Step 7: Collecting the Passport and Final Preparations
After the Protector verification, the applicant can collect their passport from the agency. The passport will now have:
- Saudi Work Visa Stamp
- Protector Stamp and Sticker
Step 8: Booking the Flight and Traveling to Saudi Arabia
Once the visa is issued and all verifications are complete, the applicant can proceed with flight booking. It is recommended to book tickets through a reliable travel agency to avoid last-minute issues. The applicant must also ensure that they carry:
- All original documents
- Work contract and employer details
- Contact information of the employer in Saudi Arabia
Processing Time for Saudi Work Visa
The entire process from Wakala issuance to visa approval typically takes between one to two weeks. However, in some cases, it can take up to 15 days depending on the workload at the embassy and Protector Office.
Best Recruitment Agencies in Pakistan for Saudi Work Visa
Several recruitment agencies in Pakistan specialize in Saudi Arabia work visa processing. These agencies handle everything from documentation to final visa approval. When choosing an agency, ensure that it is licensed and registered to avoid fraud.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a Saudi Arabia work visa from Pakistan involves multiple steps, including documentation, biometric verification, medical tests, and approval from the Saudi Embassy. By following the proper procedure and working with a reputable visa processing agency, applicants can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
For further updates and detailed guidance, it is always recommended to stay in touch with experienced visa agents or recruitment agencies that specialize in Saudi visa processing in Pakistan.
