How to get a work visa in Saudi Arabia as a Filipino citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
Why Filipinos choose Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia hosts 1.2 million Filipinos and is the single largest destination for overseas Filipino workers. Healthcare, construction and engineering roles dominate, deployment is fast, and salaries are tax-free.
Who this is best for
- ✓Engineers and construction professionals (NEOM, mega-projects)
- ✓Healthcare workers - doctors, nurses, technicians
- ✓Technology and project-management specialists
- ✓Hospitality and tourism talent
- ✓Professionals seeking tax-free Gulf earnings
🎯 Recommended for Filipinos: Employment Visa - the most direct route for this corridor based on cost, processing time and long-term prospects.
Available visa pathways
Employment Visa (Iqama)
إقامة عمل
The standard Saudi employment visa (Iqama) is your entry point to working in Saudi Arabia. The system operates under the Kafala (sponsorship) framework, where your employer serves as your sponsor (kafeel) and handles the entire visa process through the Qiwa digital platform. Saudi Arabia classifies workers into skill-based tiers for 2026: High-Skilled (doctors, engineers, IT specialists) need a degree plus 5 years of experience with a minimum salary of SAR 15,000 per month; Skilled (technicians, specialists) need secondary education plus 2 years of experience with SAR 7,000-14,999; Basic roles require a minimum of SAR 3,000-6,999.
Premium Residency (Green Card)
الإقامة المميزة
Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency (often called the Saudi Green Card) is a self-sponsored residence permit that frees you from the Kafala employer sponsorship system. There are two options: a Limited residency costing SAR 100,000 per year (1-5 years, renewable), or an Unlimited permanent residency for a one-time payment of SAR 800,000. Both allow you to work for any employer, own property and businesses, and sponsor your family without dependent permit fees.
Freelancer Visa
وثيقة العمل الحر
The Saudi Freelancer Visa is a relatively new addition under Vision 2030, allowing self-employed professionals to work independently in Saudi Arabia without an employer sponsor. It's available for qualifying fields including technology, consulting, creative services, media, and certain professional services.
💡 Tip for Filipinos applicants: Deploy only through a DMW-accredited agency and secure your OEC before departure - it is mandatory exit clearance at the airport.
Application timeline for Saudi Arabia
Employer obtains block visa quota
Your employer applies to MHRSD (Ministry of Human Resources) for a block visa quota under the Nitaqat (Saudization) system.
1-2 weeksEmployer submits work permit via Qiwa
The employer files your individual work permit application through the Qiwa platform with your qualifications and contract details.
1-2 weeksMOFA approval and visa issuance
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs approves the visa. An electronic visa authorization is sent to the Saudi embassy in your country.
1-2 weeksVisa stamped at Saudi embassy
Visit the Saudi embassy or consulate in your home country to have the work visa stamped in your passport.
3-7 daysTravel and medical exam
Travel to Saudi Arabia. Complete a medical fitness examination at an approved health center.
1 weekIqama issued
Your employer processes your Iqama (residence permit) through the Muqeem system. Your biometrics are captured.
1-2 weeksCommon required documents
Document requirements may vary by visa type.
Cost estimate in Philippine Peso (PHP)
Approximate conversions for Filipinos. Currency rates are indicative - check current rates before applying.
| Item | Amount | In PHP |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | SAR 2000-100000 | ₱29,867 |
| Minimum salary threshold (per year) | SAR 180,000 | ₱2,688,000/yr |
Filipino community in Saudi Arabia
Approximately 1.2 million Filipinos live in Saudi Arabia, one of the larger Filipinos communities abroad. An estimated 1.2 million hold work visas.
Embassy and application centres
Filipinos apply through the Saudi Embassy - Manila. Book appointments early - slots fill fast.
Related guides
Working and living in Saudi Arabia
Key industries hiring
Saudi Arabia hires internationally across oil and gas, construction and engineering (driven by NEOM and other giga-projects), healthcare, technology, and a tourism sector being built almost from scratch under Vision 2030.
Cost of living and quality of life
Living costs are moderate for the Gulf - a one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh runs SAR 3,000-6,000 a month - and the absence of income tax boosts savings. Employers frequently provide housing allowances, health cover and flights, and the country is investing heavily in entertainment and quality-of-life infrastructure.
Next steps for Filipino applicants
Ready to start your Saudi Arabia visa application? Here is what to do next:
- Check which visa you qualify for
- Gather your documents
- Apply through the official portal
How to apply for a Saudi Arabia visa from Filipino
Applications for Saudi Arabia are processed through Embassy Direct. Here is how to apply, step by step:
- 1Prepare your documents
Cover letter, bank statements, photos, and supporting evidence.
- 2Book your appointment at Embassy Direct
Processing time: 5-15 business days. Service fee: Varies by country.
- 3Attend your appointment with all documents and passport
Biometrics: 10 fingerprints + photo at the centre.
- 4Track your application after submission
Use your reference number on the tracking portal.
- 5Collect your passport when notified
You will receive an SMS or email when your passport is ready. Collect within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Employment Visa (Iqama) in Saudi Arabia?
The minimum salary is SAR 180,000 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in Saudi Arabia?
Processing times range from 3 to 8 weeks.
Do I need a job offer for a Saudi Arabia work visa?
Not always. Premium Residency (Green Card), Freelancer Visa do not require one.
Can I bring my family on a Saudi Arabia work visa?
Yes. 2 of 3 visa types allow dependants.
How many Filipinos live in Saudi Arabia?
Approximately 1.2 million Filipinos currently live in Saudi Arabia, making it one of the more established Filipinos communities abroad.
How much does a Saudi Arabia work visa cost for Filipinos?
Visa application fees start at SAR 2000 - approximately ₱29,867. Budget extra for medical checks, document authentication, and travel to the embassy.
Can Filipinos apply for a Saudi Arabia work visa from Manila?
Yes. Filipinos apply through the Saudi Embassy - Manila. Processing takes 3-8 weeks.
Is there a path to permanent residency in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. 1 of the 3 visa pathways on this page can lead to permanent residency in Saudi Arabia.