For individuals looking to work, invest, or engage in business activities in Saudi Arabia, 2025 presents both opportunity and complexity. While Saudi Arabia continues to modernise its visa framework as part of its broader Vision 2030 goals, current restrictions and entry conditions, especially for nationals of certain countries, require careful planning.

‍

Business visit visas

‍

If you're travelling to Saudi Arabia for business purposes, you'll need to apply for a Business visit visa. This process starts with a government-approved invitation letter from a Saudi-based sponsor. The visa itself can be issued as a single-entry (valid for three or six months) or a multiple-entry option valid for up to a year, or even five to ten years for citizens of countries with bilateral agreements. However, regardless of the visa’s validity, the maximum duration of stay at any one time is capped, typically at 30, 90, or 180 days, depending on the type of visa issued. eVisas are also available to nationals from select countries for short-term travel related to business and tourism.

It is worth noting that entry and exit restrictions remain in place for nationals from countries including India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Egypt, among others. Though individuals from these countries with existing valid visas may technically enter, reports suggest some are still being denied entry or boarding. A formal deadline of 13th April 2025 was set for affected nationals already in the country, and those who fail to comply may face penalties or future bans. Meanwhile, the issuance of new visit visas for business and tourism for these nationals remains suspended and is expected to resume after the Hajj season ends in late June 2025.

‍

Employment and long-term work options

‍

Saudi Arabia does not currently offer a formal short-term work visa. Those seeking to work in the Kingdom must obtain a full Work Permit, along with a Resident ID card. These permits allow stays of up to one year and can be renewed. Employers act as sponsors in this process, and it requires a formal employment offer and registration with the appropriate government bodies.

While there is no dedicated visa route for internships or traineeships, Saudi Arabia’s "Study in Saudi Arabia" program offers educational visas to citizens of over 160 countries. This initiative includes short-term visas for training, language study, and exchange programs, as well as long-term visas for academic study and research.

‍

Self-employment and investment

‍

For entrepreneurs and investors, options are more limited but not impossible. Saudi Arabia does not offer a traditional self-employment visa, but the Premium Residency Permit (PRP) offers a pathway to live and work in the Kingdom without a local sponsor. This long-term residency option is geared towards skilled professionals, investors, and business owners who meet specific eligibility criteria. It grants more freedom than traditional work permits, though it comes with higher costs and stricter qualifications.

‍

Should you have any queries regarding the above information or if you require assistance with your corporate, employment or immigration matter, please get in touch with a legal professional at Hudson McKenzie via email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone +44(0) 20 3318 5794.

The information provided does not amount to legal advice.