Saudi Arabia has assured Pakistan of faster work visa processing, potentially allowing eligible Pakistani workers to receive visas within 24 hours. The development could create new opportunities for thousands of Pakistanis seeking employment in the Kingdom.
The assurance came during a meeting between Saudi Ambassador Dr. Rajeh bin Tami Al-Baqami and Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain. The discussions focused on employment opportunities, visa procedures and challenges faced by Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi ambassador pledged full cooperation in simplifying visa procedures. He also assured support for processing workers’ visa applications within 24 hours, potentially reducing waiting times for applicants.
However, authorities have not yet announced an implementation date or confirmed which visa categories will qualify for the faster processing facility. The announcement therefore remains an assurance rather than a guaranteed processing timeline for every applicant.
The Thursday Times
During the meeting, Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasized expanding employment opportunities for skilled Pakistani professionals. He stressed that workers should receive specialized training to meet the changing requirements of Saudi employers.
The minister also called for improved information sharing about available jobs, required qualifications and workforce demand in the Saudi labour market.
Both countries agreed to establish a joint working group to address workers’ concerns, strengthen institutional coordination and promote human resource development.
Saudi Arabia remains a major destination for Pakistani workers seeking overseas employment. Faster visa processing could make recruitment easier and support stronger economic cooperation between the two countries.
The proposed arrangement is expected to benefit eligible job seekers once official procedures are finalized.
