In Saudi Arabia, a “Free Work Visa” does not mean you get a visa completely for free. It actually means that your sponsor or company covers most of the visa-related costs, including visa processing, ticket, and accommodation.
Warning: If an agent asks you for large sums of money just for a “Free Visa,” this is likely a scam.
What Companies Are Responsible for:
According to Saudi labor laws, when a company hires you, they are responsible for:
- Paying visa processing fees
- Providing your flight ticket from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia
- Arranging your Iqama (residency permit) after arrival
- Providing health insurance and accommodation
Your personal expenses in Pakistan usually include:
- Medical tests
- Biometrics / Tasheer fees
- Protector of Emigrants registration
Easy Steps to Apply for Free Saudi Work Visa for Pakistani Workers:
Saudi Arabia has made the visa process more digital and transparent. You just need to follow the official steps.
Step 1: Get a Verified Job Offer
The visa process begins only after you have a genuine Job Offer Letter from a Saudi company.
Trusted platforms for job search:
- BEOE (Bureau of Emigration, Pakistan): daily updated verified overseas jobs
- Qiwa Portal (Saudi official platform): digital contracts and employer verification
- LinkedIn / NaukriGulf: ideal for skilled jobs
Tip: Avoid offers through WhatsApp or social media agents.
Step 2: Medical Test (Wafid / GAMCA)
Once your job is confirmed, you must complete a medical test at a Wafid-approved center.
- Approximate cost: 15,000 – 18,000 PKR
- Visa processing cannot start without this health clearance
Step 3: Biometrics Submission (Tasheer Centers)
Biometrics for Saudi work visas in Pakistan are done at Tasheer Centers (formerly Etimad).
- Online appointment is required
- Visa processing continues only after your data is verified
Step 4: Protector of Emigrants Registration
Before leaving for Saudi Arabia, it is mandatory to register with the Protector of Emigrants (POE) system.
- Purpose: Protects your rights and insurance coverage
- Fees: 10,000 – 12,000 PKR
- Airlines may also verify this at check-in
Sponsor-Free Options:
Saudi Arabia introduced Sponsor-Free Visa options, but these are not available for everyone:
- Premium Residency: For investors or highly skilled professionals
- Trade / Skill Verification: Technical jobs (e.g., electrician, plumber) now require mandatory trade tests
Note: These options do not apply to general labor or ordinary workers.
How to Avoid Visa Scams?
Many candidates fall victim to fraud. Always check for these red flags:
- Upfront Payments: Genuine companies do not ask for money before issuing a visa
- “Azad Visa”: This term is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can lead to deportation
- OEP License: Verify that your agent has a valid Overseas Employment Promoter license
Benefits of Free Saudi Work Visa for Pakistani Workers:
- Minimal Visa Costs
The sponsor or company covers most visa expenses, including processing, flight tickets, and accommodation, reducing your financial burden significantly. - Legal Employment Protection
Working through an official job offer and visa ensures your rights are protected under Saudi labor laws, including wages and working conditions. - Health Insurance Coverage
Companies provide medical insurance for employees, giving peace of mind in case of illness or accidents while working abroad. - Accommodation Provided
Many companies arrange housing or support in finding safe accommodation, saving you time and effort when relocating. - Safe Travel to Saudi Arabia
With company-covered flights and official documentation, you avoid travel risks associated with unverified agents or illegal routes. - Official Iqama Registration
Your residency permit (Iqama) is arranged by the company, ensuring your legal stay and access to government services in Saudi Arabia. - Transparent Visa Process
Following the official steps verified job offer, Wafid medical, biometrics, and Protector registration keeps the process fully documented and secure. - Skill and Trade Verification
For technical roles, trade tests or skill verification add credibility to your profile and may open future career opportunities in Saudi Arabia. - Scam-Free Employment
Working only with licensed agents (OEP) and verified companies reduces the risk of fraud or illegal practices. - Career and Experience Growth
Gaining international work experience in Saudi Arabia enhances your resume and can lead to higher-paying jobs or better opportunities in the future.
Safe Steps for a Legal Saudi Work Visa in 2026
- Obtain a verified job offer
- Complete Wafid / GAMCA medical clearance
- Submit biometrics at Tasheer Centers
- Register with the Protector of Emigrants
- Follow only the legal process
Following these steps ensures you get a legal and safe Saudi work visa without falling victim to scams.
Conclusion:
A “Free Work Visa” means the company covers major visa costs while you handle only local fees in Pakistan. Following official steps verified job offer, medical clearance, biometrics, and Protector registration ensures a legal and safe visa. Always stay alert for scams and work only with licensed agents to protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
How can I avoid scams while applying for a Saudi work visa?
Never pay upfront fees, avoid offers labeled “Azad Visa,” and always use verified agents or official platforms like BEOE or Qiwa.
-
What is the Protector of Emigrants registration?
It is a mandatory Pakistan government system that protects your rights and insurance before traveling abroad for work.
-
Can I get a Free Visa without a job offer?
No. The visa process starts only after you receive a verified job offer from a Saudi company. Any claim otherwise is likely a scam.