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Immigration Request
"I need an immigration request document for a client seeking a work visa extension for 2 years, including details of employment history, current job offer, and proof of financial stability."
What is an Immigration Request?
An Immigration Request is a formal application submitted to Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior when you need to bring foreign workers into the Kingdom or modify their visa status. It's the first crucial step employers take to secure work visas, residence permits (Iqamas), or handle visa transfers for their international employees.
The request requires detailed information about the position, the candidate's qualifications, and the hiring company's business needs. Under Saudi labor law, companies must show they've met Saudization requirements and have valid block visas before submitting these requests. Once approved, employers can proceed with the visa issuance process through the relevant authorities.
When should you use an Immigration Request?
Submit an Immigration Request whenever your company needs to bring foreign talent into Saudi Arabia or modify an existing worker's visa status. Common scenarios include hiring international employees, transferring staff between companies, changing job roles that require visa updates, or bringing in specialized contractors for specific projects.
Timing is critical - file your Immigration Request at least 2-3 months before your intended employment start date. Companies in fast-growing sectors like technology, construction, and healthcare often need these requests when expanding their workforce or starting new projects. Remember that your company must meet current Saudization quotas and have available block visas before filing.
What are the different types of Immigration Request?
- Initial Work Visa Request: Used when bringing new foreign workers into Saudi Arabia for the first time, requiring detailed job descriptions and qualification documentation.
- Visa Transfer Request: For moving an existing foreign worker's sponsorship between companies within Saudi Arabia.
- Dependent Visa Request: Needed when employees want to bring family members to live in Saudi Arabia.
- Exit/Re-entry Visa Request: For foreign workers who need to temporarily leave and return to Saudi Arabia while maintaining their work status.
- Occupation Change Request: Used when modifying a foreign worker's job role or title, requiring updates to their existing visa and work permits.
Who should typically use an Immigration Request?
- Employers/Companies: Submit Immigration Requests through their HR departments or authorized representatives, must meet Saudization quotas and legal requirements.
- Foreign Workers: Provide personal documents and professional qualifications, must comply with visa conditions once approved.
- HR Managers: Prepare and oversee Immigration Request submissions, coordinate with government agencies, and manage documentation.
- Legal Representatives: Review requests for compliance, assist with complex cases, and handle appeals if needed.
- Ministry of Interior Officials: Process and approve requests, verify documentation, and ensure alignment with Saudi immigration policies.
How do you write an Immigration Request?
- Company Details: Gather commercial registration, Saudization certificate, and valid block visa allocation documents.
- Employee Information: Collect passport copies, qualifications, professional certificates, and updated CV of the foreign worker.
- Position Details: Prepare job description, salary details, and proof that the role aligns with approved visa categories.
- Documentation Review: Ensure all certificates are authenticated and translated into Arabic by approved translators.
- System Access: Set up access to the Absher and Qiwa platforms for electronic submission.
- Internal Approval: Get sign-off from department heads and HR before submission.
What should be included in an Immigration Request?
- Company Information: Full legal name, commercial registration number, and authorized representative details.
- Position Details: Specific job title, department, work location, and salary range as per labor regulations.
- Employee Data: Complete passport information, qualifications, and previous work experience in Saudi Arabia.
- Visa Category: Clear specification of visa type requested and duration of stay.
- Compliance Declaration: Statement confirming adherence to Saudization quotas and labor laws.
- Authorization Section: Electronic signature fields for company representative and HR manager.
- Supporting Documents: List of required attachments as per Ministry guidelines.
What's the difference between an Immigration Request and an Equal Employment Opportunity Request?
While Immigration Requests and Immigration Forms might seem similar, they serve distinct purposes in Saudi Arabia's visa processing system. An Immigration Request initiates the process of bringing foreign workers into the Kingdom, while an Immigration Form is a standardized document used to collect specific information once the initial request is approved.
- Timing and Purpose: Immigration Requests come first, seeking permission to hire foreign workers. Immigration Forms follow later, gathering detailed personal and professional information for approved candidates.
- Submission Process: Immigration Requests require company authorization and go through the Ministry of Interior's electronic systems. Immigration Forms are filled out by individual workers through their local Saudi embassy.
- Documentation Requirements: Requests need company credentials and block visa allocation proof. Forms focus on the worker's personal documentation and credentials.
- Processing Authority: Requests are handled by Ministry officials within Saudi Arabia, while Forms typically involve both Saudi embassies abroad and local authorities.
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