Legal, Administrative, and Financial Essentials

Visa and Residency Requirements

Navigating the visa and residency process in Saudi Arabia is a critical step for expatriates:

  • Work Visa: Sponsored by an employer, this is converted into an iqama (residency permit) upon arrival.
  • Iqama (Residency Permit):
    1. Serves as the primary identification document.
    2. Required for healthcare, banking, and other services.
    3. Must be renewed annually by the employer.
  • Dependent Visas: Allow family members to join the iqama holder, who acts as their sponsor.
  • Exit/Re-entry Permits: Necessary for expatriates to leave and return to Saudi Arabia during their iqama validity period.

Key Tip : Always carry your iqama and ensure it is renewed promptly.

Work Contracts and Labor Rights (Including Saudization Program)

Saudi labor laws, governed by the Ministry of Human Resources, aim to protect both employees and employers:

  • Employment Contracts: Clearly outline job roles, salaries, benefits, and end-of-service gratuity.
  • Labor Rights:

    1. Maximum working hours: 48 per week (36 during Ramadan).

    2. Leave: Includes annual, sick, and maternity leave.

  • Saudization Program:

    1. Encourages hiring Saudi nationals in specific sectors.

    2. Expatriates in restricted sectors may need to seek roles in open industries.

For more information, visit Ministry of Labor and Social Development.

Banking, Money Transfers, and Financial Safety

Opening a local bank account is essential:

  • Requirements: Iqama, passport, proof of address, and employer-provided documentation.
  • Popular Banks: Al Rajhi Bank, Riyad Bank, and NCB offer accessible banking options.
  • Money Transfers:

    1. Reliable services include STC Pay and Western Union.

    2. Compare fees and rates before sending money abroad.

  • Financial Safety Tips:

    1. Use secure channels for transactions.

    2. Avoid sharing sensitive information like bank account details or iqama numbers.

Cost of Living and Budgeting

Managing finances is key to a comfortable stay:

  • Housing Costs: Compound living is more expensive than apartments or villas. Monthly rents range from SAR 3,000–8,000.
  • Utilities: Affordable, but electricity bills rise in summer due to air conditioning.
  • Transportation: Fuel is cheap, but car maintenance or ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) add to costs.
  • Groceries and Dining: Local groceries are affordable, and dining out ranges from budget-friendly to premium.

Avoiding Financial Scams

Scams are a significant concern for expatriates, particularly through WhatsApp, phone calls, and emails.

  • Common Scams:

    1. WhatsApp: Fraudsters impersonate banks or government officials, asking for sensitive information.

    2. Phone Calls: Fake callers claim your iqama or bank account is suspended and demand payments.

    3. Emails and SMS: Messages link to fake websites designed to steal credentials.
  • How to Stay Safe:

    1. Verify authenticity: Contact banks or agencies directly using official numbers.

    2. Never share sensitive information via phone or messaging apps.

    3. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, especially those not from verified domains (e.g., “.gov.sa”).

  • Reporting Scams:

    1. Cybercrime: Use the Kollona Amn App or dial 911 to report online fraud.

    2. Bank Fraud: Notify your bank immediately to block unauthorized transactions.

By staying alert, expatriates can safeguard their finances and avoid becoming victims of scams.

Links to Essential Saudi Sites