Saudi Work Visa Requirements: A Guide for Italian Citizens and Residents

Saudi Arabia Work Visa from Italy

Saudi Work Visa allows Italian nationals and residents of Italy to enter Saudi Arabia for full-time employment under the sponsorship of a Saudi-registered company.
Once in the Kingdom, the visa must be converted into a residence permit (Iqama), which legally authorises long-term residence and employment. The Iqama is issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior following the employee’s medical clearance and registration by their Saudi employer.

Why Choose Saudi Visa Agency by Northman & Sterling

Documents Required (UK Applicants)

Last updated: September 2025. All information is verified in real-time by our Saudi offices at Northman & Sterling Saudi Arabia.

Direct Access to Saudi Ministries

We are not a vendor or reseller — we operate two offices in Riyadh and one in Dammam, giving us direct access to Saudi ministry systems.
This means real-time updates, faster processing, and embassy-compliant applications — we actually serve as the knowledge engine behind many global immigration firms, law firms and consulting firms such as Big4.

Eligibility for Applicants in Italy

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

Be an Italian passport holder, or a foreign resident legally residing in Italy with a valid permesso di soggiorno.
Hold a confirmed job offer or signed employment contract with a Saudi employer.
Obtain an official invitation letter issued through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Saudi Arabia.
Possess the necessary professional or academic qualifications related to the offered position.

Post-Arrival Procedures and Assistance

Following the employee’s arrival in the Kingdom, several formalities must be completed to finalise their legal employment status.

Our team ensures coordination with the sponsoring company to facilitate the following:

Registration of the employee in the Qiwa and GOSI systems.
Completion of the mandatory post-arrival medical examination.
Conversion of the entry visa into a residence permit (Iqama).
Activation of health insurance and issuance of company identification.

Common Issues Encountered by Applicants

Submitting documents without full legalisation or incorrect attestation.
Inconsistent job information between the invitation letter and the employment contract.
Medical reports not issued by approved facilities.
Missing power of attorney (Wakala) from the Saudi employer.
Booking travel before receiving visa approval.

Ensuring full compliance with Italian and Saudi requirements helps prevent processing delays.

Information for Non-Italian Residents in Italy

Foreign nationals living in Italy may also apply for a Saudi Work Visa provided they hold a valid residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) and proof of long-term stay. Their applications are processed under the same documentation and verification standards as those for Italian citizens.