Saudi Arabia Work Visa 2026 — Complete Guide
Saudi Arabia remains the top destination for Pakistani workers, with over 2.5 million Pakistanis working there in construction, driving, manufacturing, hospitality, and services.
Step-by-Step Visa Process
Step 1: Job Offer / Demand Letter
- Get a confirmed job offer from a Saudi employer
- The offer must be attested by Saudi Ministry of Human Resources
- Your Pakistani recruitment agency (GAMCA-approved) coordinates this
Step 2: GAMCA Medical Test
- Book appointment at a GAMCA-approved center (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar)
- Fee: PKR 5,000–8,000
- Tests include: X-Ray, Blood tests (HIV, Hepatitis, Malaria, TB)
- Results in 3–5 working days
Step 3: Protector of Emigrants
- Required for unskilled/semi-skilled workers
- Office: Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment, Islamabad
- Fee: PKR 1,000–2,500
- Processing: 2–3 days
Step 4: MOFA Attestation
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation of your educational certificates
- Fee: PKR 700–1,500 per document
Step 5: Visa Stamping
- Saudi Embassy/Consulate stamps visa
- Fee: PKR 15,000–25,000 (included in agency package)
- Processing: 5–10 working days
Step 6: Flight Booking
- Direct flights: Karachi/Lahore/Islamabad → Riyadh/Jeddah/Dammam
- Cost: PKR 50,000–80,000
Required Documents
- Valid Pakistani Passport (6 months minimum validity)
- 4 passport-size photographs
- GAMCA medical fitness certificate
- Educational/trade certificates (attested)
- CNIC copy
- Demand letter / employment contract
Salary Ranges (2026)
| Trade | Monthly SAR | PKR Equivalent |
|---|
| Driver | 1,200–2,000 | 90,000–150,000 |
| Electrician | 1,500–2,500 | 112,000–187,000 |
| Mason | 1,200–1,800 | 90,000–135,000 |
| Cook/Chef | 1,000–1,800 | 75,000–135,000 |
| Security Guard | 900–1,400 | 67,000–105,000 |
| General Labour | 800–1,200 | 60,000–90,000 |
Important Tips
- ✅ Always verify your recruiter is GAMCA/OEP registered
- ✅ Get employment contract before paying fees
- ❌ Never pay more than PKR 50,000–100,000 for a job placement
- ✅ Register with Pakistan Embassy Riyadh on arrival