Moving to Saudi Arabia

All foreign workers need a work visa (obtained by their employer through the Kafala system) and must apply at the Saudi consulate in their home country. Within 90 days of arrival, an Iqama (residency permit) must be obtained through the ABSHER portal. All foreign documents — degree certificates, marriage certificates, police clearance — must be attested by your country's foreign affairs ministry and the Saudi embassy. A GAMCA-approved medical fitness test is required before the visa is issued.

• Sea freight from North America takes 25–35 days; from Europe 18–25 days; from Australia 20–28 days.
• Saudi Customs (ZATCA) requires a detailed inventory list in both English and Arabic.
• New residents on first shipments may qualify for duty-free import of personal effects.
• Major ports include Jeddah Islamic Port (west coast) and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam (east coast).
• A licensed customs broker (mukhallas) is required for clearing goods.
• All shipments are subject to customs inspection — prohibited items will be seized.
• Vehicle import is possible but requires Saudi-specific compliance modifications.

• Valid passport with Saudi Employment Visa.
• Iqama (once issued within 90 days of arrival).
• Attested educational certificates and experience letters.
• Marriage certificate (if relocating with spouse) — must be attested.
• GAMCA medical fitness certificate.
• Customs declaration form (ZATCA) for household goods.
• Detailed packing inventory in English and Arabic.

Saudi Customs Authority (ZATCA) enforces strict rules. Prohibited items include: alcohol and alcohol-related products, pork products, politically sensitive materials, and certain medications without prior approval. All shipments may be inspected. Personal effects with a valid Iqama typically clear with minimal duties on the first shipment. The ABSHER online system handles most government registrations. New residents should register with the Civil Defense and municipality within the first month.

• Shipping alcohol or pork products — strictly prohibited and will result in seizure and possible legal action.
• Not having documents attested before leaving your home country — this cannot be done retroactively easily.
• Missing the 90-day Iqama deadline — overstaying the work visa without Iqama results in fines.
• Assuming your vehicle can be driven directly — cars must meet Saudi specifications and pass inspection.
• Not registering with ABSHER promptly — most government services require an active ABSHER account.