Expansion of the Qualification Verification Program (QVP)

The Saudi Qualification Verification Program (QVP), previously limited to specific industries and nationalities, has undergone significant expansion, affecting the work visa application process for foreign nationals. This will largely impact companies setting up in KSA and any business in Saudi looking to obtain new staff visas. 

Key Updates:

1. The QVP now applies to all industries, whereas it previously focused on sectors like aviation, construction, health, media, and tourism.
2. The program now includes applicants from a broader range of countries, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Denmark, Germany, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, the UK, the US, and Zambia. While no official list of all affected nationalities has been published, additional countries are also impacted.

Program Requirements:

Applicants must obtain a Professional Accreditation Certificate via the QVP portal to validate their qualifications for their designated occupations.

Technician-level workers require a diploma and a technical exam in their home country.

Higher-level roles, such as supervisors and managers, require full QVP registration and verification.

Exemptions: Normal laborers, drivers, and cleaners are exempt from the QVP.

The QVP is not yet enforced across all Saudi embassies but is increasingly becoming applicable. Previously accepted processes, such as submitting an attested degree through the Saudi Culture Office and local authorities (MOH or MOE), are now limited to very narrow cases.

Impact on Employers and Applicants:

Administrative Burden:

• The QVP introduces additional steps, extending the visa application timeline by approximately 15 days.
• A fee of USD 93 is required for the QVP process.

Employer Adjustments:

Employers must adapt their onboarding processes, accounting for longer timelines and higher costs in talent management and visa processing.

This expansion represents a significant shift in Saudi work visa requirements, emphasizing the importance of validating qualifications before entry.

If you require assistance with obtaining visas and Iqama in Saudi Arabia for your employees, contact Sovereign PPG for further PRO and immigration support on email KSA@SovereignGroup.com or fill in the in line form and we would be delighted to assist you.