The decision to implement the pre-verification requirement was introduced six months ago as a measure to regulate the influx of Indian workers. This step was taken due to the limited capacity of accredited training centers in the country and to uphold quality standards.
Riyadh : Indian citizens intending to apply for a work visa for Saudi Arabia must now complete a pre-verification process for their educational and professional qualifications. According to a circular issued by the Saudi mission in India, the professional verification requirements for work visas will take effect starting January 14.
According to a report by The New Indian Express, the circular stated that professional verification would be established as a mandatory criterion for the issuance of work visas.
The decision to implement the pre-verification requirement was introduced six months ago as a measure to regulate the influx of Indian workers. This was necessary due to the limited capacity of certified training centers in the country and to ensure that quality standards are upheld.
The initiative focuses on ensuring easier entry into Saudi Arabia’s labor market while boosting worker retention. Additionally, it aims to simplify the hiring process and elevate the overall caliber of the workforce within the kingdom.
According to the updated regulations, business owners and HR teams are urged to validate the credentials and details submitted by expatriate workers.
Saudi Arabia has introduced revised regulations for expatriates regarding the extension of exit and re-entry visas, as well as the renewal of residency permits (Iqamas).
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has stated on X (previously known as Twitter) that expatriates, whether inside or outside the kingdom, are now able to renew their Iqamas.
Indians residing in Saudi Arabia
As per the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian nationals represent the second-largest expatriate group in Saudi Arabia, following Bangladesh, which tops the list with 2.69 million migrant workers.
In 2024, it is reported that more than 2.4 million Indian workers are residing in Saudi Arabia, with 1.64 million employed in the private sector and approximately 785,000 working in domestic roles.
Indian workers play an essential role in Saudi Arabia’s workforce. However, many individuals have raised concerns about the shortage of test centers available for applicants to complete their verification process.
According to a report by TNIE, Haris Beeran, a Rajya Sabha member, stated that test centres for driver’s licenses are situated in Ajmer and Sikar, Rajasthan. This forces applicants, particularly from the southern regions, to undertake lengthy journeys, encountering challenges related to both language barriers and logistical difficulties.
In line with its 2030 vision, the kingdom strives to enhance recruitment criteria and draw in highly skilled expatriate professionals, thereby raising overall hiring standards.
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