Study / Student in Saudi Arabia
One documented route of this kind in Saudi Arabia, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.
Student Visa and Study Iqama
International students accepted by a recognised Saudi educational institution are sponsored by that institution for a study visa, which is converted to a student Iqama after arrival and renewed annually for the duration of studies.
- Processing time
- Apply 3-4 months before programme start; processing several weeks
- Validity
- One academic year, renewable annually for the study duration
- Language requirement
- No language certificate needed
- Permanent residence
- No direct PR route
- Citizenship
- No direct route to citizenship
Requirements
- Admission/acceptance from a recognised Saudi educational institution
- Institutional sponsorship and MOFA authorisation
- Valid passport
- Medical fitness examination after arrival
- Proof of funds/scholarship as required
Required Documents
- Letter of admission from the Saudi institution required
- MOFA authorisation letter (obtained by institution) required
- Valid passport required
- Academic transcripts/certificates (attested) required
- Medical examination report required
- Passport photographs required
Process Steps
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1
Gain admission
Apply to and be accepted by a recognised Saudi university or institution.
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2
Institution sponsors visa
The institution secures MOFA authorisation and the student applies for the study visa abroad.
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3
Enter & medical
Student enters the Kingdom and completes the required medical examination.
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4
Student Iqama
Institution arranges the student Iqama; renew annually until studies complete.