Saudi Arabia remains one of the most popular overseas employment destinations for Pakistani workers due to strong demand in construction, healthcare, transport, hospitality, and technical sectors. For anyone planning to work in the Kingdom, understanding the Saudi Arabia work visa fee for Pakistani applicants in 2026 is essential before starting the process.
This guide explains the total cost, breaks down mandatory charges, and clarifies the role of overseas recruitment agencies in Pakistan, so applicants can plan confidently and avoid unexpected expenses.
What Is a Saudi Arabia Work Visa?
A Saudi work visa (also known as an employment visa) allows Pakistani nationals to legally enter Saudi Arabia for employment under a registered Saudi employer. The visa is issued only after a confirmed job offer, sponsorship, and completion of required documentation and medical checks.
Saudi Arabia Work Visa Fee for Pakistani 2026 – Official Charges
The base government fee for a Saudi Arabia work visa is relatively fixed, but the total cost varies depending on profession, employer, and processing channel.
Core Visa Fee (Government Charges)
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Saudi work visa fee: SAR 2,000
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Approximate in PKR (2026 estimate): PKR 150,000–165,000 (subject to exchange rate)
This fee is paid to Saudi authorities and is non-refundable once processed.
Additional Mandatory Costs (Pakistan Side)
Most applicants focus only on the visa fee, but several mandatory supporting costs apply:
1. Medical Examination
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Approved medical centers only
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Cost: PKR 12,000–20,000
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Includes blood tests, X-ray, and general fitness assessment
2. Protector of Emigrants Fee
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Registration and clearance by Bureau of Emigration
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Cost: PKR 7,200–9,000
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Mandatory for all overseas workers
3. Biometric & Documentation Charges
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Fingerprints, NADRA verification, police character certificate
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Cost: PKR 3,000–6,000 (approx.)
4. Passport & Attestation (if required)
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Passport validity minimum 6–12 months
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MOFA or related attestations may apply depending on profession
Role of Overseas Recruitment Agencies in Pakistan
Many Pakistani workers apply through licensed overseas recruitment agencies in Pakistan, especially when employers prefer bulk hiring or verified intermediaries.
Typical Agency Service Charges
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Service fee range: PKR 50,000–150,000
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Depends on:
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Job category (labor vs skilled)
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Employer sponsorship
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Included services (job offer, visa filing, ticket assistance)
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⚠️ Important: Legitimate agencies are registered with the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment. Workers should always verify agency licenses before payment.
Total Saudi Arabia Work Visa Cost for Pakistani Applicants (2026)
Here is a realistic total cost estimate:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Saudi Visa Fee | 150,000–165,000 |
| Medical Test | 12,000–20,000 |
| Protector Fee | 7,200–9,000 |
| Documentation & Biometrics | 3,000–6,000 |
| Recruitment Agency Fee (if applicable) | 50,000–150,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 225,000–350,000+ |
Actual cost may vary depending on employer benefits, job role, and exchange rates.
Who Pays What? Employer vs Worker
In many cases:
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Saudi employer pays:
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Iqama (residency permit)
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Work permit renewal
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Sometimes visa fee and air ticket
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Worker usually pays:
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Medical test
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Protector fee
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Agency charges (if using an agency)
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Always confirm cost responsibility before signing any agreement.
Processing Time for Saudi Work Visa (2026)
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Average processing time: 2–6 weeks
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Factors affecting time:
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Profession approval
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Medical clearance
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Embassy workload
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Employer document readiness
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Delays usually occur due to incomplete paperwork or unverified recruitment agents.
How to Avoid Overcharging & Fraud
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Verify agency license number on the Bureau of Emigration website
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Avoid cash payments without receipts
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Never pay full amount upfront
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Confirm job offer authenticity from Saudi employer
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Cross-check visa category before stamping
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Saudi Arabia work visa fee for Pakistani applicants in 2026 helps workers prepare financially and avoid unnecessary stress. While the official visa fee is fixed, the total cost depends on medical checks, protector fees, documentation, and recruitment agency involvement.
Choosing reliable overseas recruitment agencies in Pakistan, verifying employer commitments, and budgeting realistically are the keys to a smooth and legal work visa process.
