Domestic Worker Visa — Documents Required for Residency Visa in Saudi Arabia
For sponsoring household domestic workers (visa category 20).
Expatriate residency in Saudi Arabia is governed by the Iqama (residency permit) system, tied to a kafeel (employer or citizen sponsor). Medical fitness (GAMCA) must be completed in your home country before travelling. Requirements and processes are subject to change — always verify with Jawazat or through the Absher platform.
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Showing 12 documents for Domestic Worker Visa, 2 case-specific documents added.
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Original + copy; minimum 6 months validity
Saudi Arabia entry visa stamped in passport by the Saudi embassy or consulate before departure
Medical fitness certificate from a GAMCA-approved centre in your home country, completed before travel. Includes chest X-ray (TB), HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C tests. Valid for 3 months.
Medical must be done in the home country before entering Saudi Arabia. Confirm the approved centre for your country at gamca.net or the Wafid portal.
Recent colour photographs on white background per Jawazat specifications
Copy of your Saudi sponsor's national ID (for Saudi citizen sponsors) or Iqama (for corporate sponsors)
Letter from kafeel (employer or sponsor) on official letterhead confirming sponsorship and employment details
Signed employment contract authenticated through the Qiwa platform (Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development)
Degree/diploma attested via the full chain: home country notary → home country MOFA → Saudi embassy in home country → Saudi MOFA. Required for professional and skilled worker categories.
Required for professional and skilled worker categories — begin attestation well in advance
Employer must submit the residence application through the Absher business platform
Confirmation that the kafeel has registered your arrival on Absher within the required timeframe
Contract issued through the Musaned platform (Saudi Ministry of Human Resources domestic worker portal — musaned.com.sa)
GAMCA-approved medical fitness certificate for the domestic worker, completed in their home country before travel
How to apply — step by step
- 1
Obtain Entry Visa
Your Saudi employer (kafeel) applies for a work/residence entry visa through Jawazat. You will receive a stamped entry visa in your passport before travelling to Saudi Arabia.
- 2
Complete GAMCA Medical Examination (Home Country)
Undergo a medical fitness examination at a GAMCA-approved centre in your home country before travelling. Tests include chest X-ray (TB), blood tests for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. The GAMCA certificate is valid for 3 months — do not delay visa stamping.
Tip: Book your GAMCA appointment early. Confirm the approved centre for your country at the GAMCA or Wafid portal.
- 3
Arrive and Complete Biometrics
On arrival in Saudi Arabia, complete fingerprinting, iris scanning, and photograph capture at the Jawazat immigration counter. Your sponsor must register your arrival on Absher.
- 4
Attest Educational Certificates (if required)
For professional visa categories, educational certificates must follow the full attestation chain: notarisation in home country → home country MOFA → Saudi embassy in home country → Saudi MOFA in Riyadh.
Tip: Begin attestation well before your travel date as it can take several weeks.
- 5
Apply for Iqama
Your kafeel (employer/sponsor) applies for your Iqama through the Absher platform or Jawazat offices within 90 days of arrival. The Iqama is your official residency permit.
- 6
Collect Iqama
Once approved, collect your Iqama card. You are legally required to carry it at all times in Saudi Arabia.
- 7
Register on Absher
Register on the Absher platform (absher.sa) to manage your residency, renew your Iqama, and access government services digitally.
Frequently asked questions
What is an Iqama and why is it required?
An Iqama is the official Saudi Arabia residency permit issued to all expatriate residents. You are legally required to carry it at all times. It is linked to your kafeel (sponsor) and must be renewed annually — confirm renewal requirements and fees with Jawazat or through Absher.
What is the GAMCA medical test and where is it done?
GAMCA (Gulf Approved Medical Centres Association) medical examinations are required before entering Saudi Arabia. They must be completed at an approved GAMCA centre in your home country before travel. Tests typically include chest X-ray (TB screening), HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. The certificate is valid for 3 months. Find approved centres at the GAMCA or Wafid portal.
Can I change employers (transfer kafeel) in Saudi Arabia?
The kafeel transfer process is managed through the Absher and Qiwa platforms. Rules and eligibility criteria are subject to change — consult the Qiwa platform (qiwa.sa) or a registered Saudi PRO for current requirements.
How do I renew my Saudi Iqama?
Iqama renewal is handled by your kafeel through the Absher platform. Renewals are typically annual. Confirm current renewal fees and requirements through Absher or Jawazat as these are subject to change.
What is the attestation process for educational certificates in Saudi Arabia?
Educational certificates must follow a four-step attestation chain: (1) notarisation in your home country, (2) attestation by your home country MOFA, (3) attestation by the Saudi embassy in your home country, (4) attestation by Saudi MOFA in Riyadh. Begin this process well before your planned travel date.
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