Saudi Wakala (تفويض الوكالة)

In the context of a Saudi work visa, a Wakala (وكالة, meaning "agency" or "power of attorney" in Arabic) is a legal document that authorizes a third party, such as an authorized agency by Saudi Embassy, to act on behalf of a Saudi employer or sponsor in processing the work visa and related documentation. It is a critical component of the Saudi work visa application process, particularly for foreign nationals seeking employment in Saudi Arabia, as it streamlines the handling of bureaucratic procedures required by Saudi authorities.

Key Aspects of Wakala in the Saudi Work Visa Process

Purpose and Function:

The Wakala document delegates authority from the sponsoring employer (or Kafeel) in Saudi Arabia to a designated agency, allowing them to handle administrative tasks related to the visa application. These tasks include submitting documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate, or other relevant authorities, as well as managing processes like document verification and visa stamping. It ensures compliance with Saudi Arabia’s immigration and labor laws by providing a clear legal framework for the agent to act on behalf of the employer.

Electronic Wakala (E-Wakala):

Modern Wakala documents are often issued electronically through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ online platform (e.g., www.visa.mofa.gov.sa). The E-Wakala includes details such as the visa number, the sponsor’s ID, and the name of the authorized agent or agency.

The E-Wakala must typically be issued in the name of an approved agency, eg.

زافكو لإدارة الموارد البشرية

B-0762/DEL/PER/1000+/5/9148/2015

Role in Visa Processing:

The Wakala authorizes the agent to submit the visa application, follow up with the Saudi Ministry of Labor, and handle tasks such as obtaining the work permit, securing MOFA attestations, and coordinating medical clearances.

For example, in countries like India, Nepal, or Pakistan, the sponsoring company provides an E-Wakala to an authorized agency, which then submits documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate for visa stamping.

Requirements for Issuing a Wakala:

The sponsoring company must have a valid business and legal presence in Saudi Arabia to issue a Wakala and It must have visa quota from Ministry of Interior, Govt of Saudi Arabia. The E-Wakala must include specific details, such as the visa authorization number, job position, and the name of the authorized agency. It is often attested by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce to confirm its authenticity.

 In some cases, the Wakala is issued directly in the applicant’s name if no agent is involved, particularly in countries with limited agency services (e.g., Australia).

 

Practical Implementation:

The employer or sponsor initiates the visa process by applying for a work permit through the Saudi Ministry of Labor and Social Development. Once approved, they issue the Wakala to delegate tasks to an agent.

The agent uses the Wakala to submit documents such as the employment contract, medical reports and educational certificates to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.

Verification of Wakala:

Applicants can verify the details of their Wakala through the Saudi MOFA website (previously EnjazIT) by entering the visa number, sponsor ID, and issuing authority city. This provides information about the visa, sponsor, and delegated agency.

For more information, connect with a visa expert at Saudi Visa Agency.