A professional licence in Saudi Arabia helps the professionals like teachers to migrate to Saudi Arabia and share their knowledge and expertise for the development of the Kingdom. After the updated investment law, the Kingdom is vigorously investing in many sectors and demands professionals to handle these sectors. Obtaining a professional license in Saudi Arabia is crucial for individuals and businesses looking to establish themselves in the dynamic and rapidly growing economy of the Kingdom. No matter whether you are a freelancer, a consultant, or a company offering specialized services, a professional license serves as an official authorization to operate legally in the Kingdom. With the nation’s Vision 2030 initiative driving economic diversification, the need for skilled professionals are on rise across various sectors in the country.
Are you a professional planning to migrate to Saudi Arabia? Facing difficulty while acquiring a Professional License? Don’t worry, this blog is for you. Read the blog to know more about professional license in KSA and key aspects of acquiring a professional license in the kingdom..
So stay tuned to know more!
What is a Professional License in Saudi Arabia?
A professional license In Saudi Arabia is an official permit that allows the individuals or companies to operate legally in their respective professional fields in the country. This license is issued by the Saudi Ministry of Commerce or sometimes by the relevant local authorities. It is important for many regulated industries like law, consulting, healthcare, engineering, and finance. The professional license is very crucial to ensure that the professionals meet the necessary requirements and fit the regulations set by local authorities, thus contributing to the top level of professionalism and accountability within these sectors.
Professional Licensing Requirements in Saudi Arabia
For Professional Partners
Required Documents for Professional Partners
- You have to provide a copy of the commercial registration of the participating foreign establishment which must be authorised by the Embassy of Saudi Arabia. A commercial registration is crucial for showcasing the professional activity of the company
- For businesses not previously licensed by the Ministry of Commerce for professional activities, you have to submit the financial statements of the company for the last financial year, and it must be certified by the Saudi Embassy.
- If any one of the partners holds citizenship of a GCC country, they need to submit a copy of their national ID. Similarly if a partner has Saudi nationality, a copy of their national ID is required along with a document from the “ABSHAR” system verifying their professional status. Also, every partner must present a copy of their professional license, issued by the relevant authority in Saudi Arabia.
Rules and Restrictions for Professional License in Saudi Arabia
- A Saudi partner with a professional license must have a minimum 25% share, and must be in line with the specific thresholds determined by the nature of the activity.
- The ownership status of non-professionals—no matter if they are Saudi nationals, Gulf citizens, holders of distinguished residency, or entities without professional status—should not exceed 30%.
- Any non-Saudi professional company participating as a partner or shareholder must possess a notable reputation in its specialized field.
- The non-Saudi professional entity must appoint at least one representative who has the appropriate professional license, and they must be recognized by the relevant authority in either the company’s home country or Saudi Arabia. This is applicable to every profession in which the company operates.
- The non Saudi professional company should contribute expertise, technical support, and the training of Saudi nationals to build local capacities.
- Approvals from the relevant authorities within Saudi Arabia are required when mandated by the law.
- If any of the partners has prior license from the Ministry of Investment, it must be stated clearly when filling out partner details during the online application process.
- The applicant must submit Saudi national ID, premium residency ID, residence details (if applicable), or commercial registration data for participating Saudi companies when submitting an application online.
For Non-Professional Partners
Required Documents for Non-Professional Partners
- You have to submit a certified copy of the Commercial Registration of the shareholding partner, and it must be attested by the Saudi Embassy. Also, if one of the partners is a natural person from any of the GCC countries and if their details are not available from the ABSHAR system, then a copy of their national identity must be submitted.
- The financial statement of the last financial year of the company should be submitted and it must be duly authenticated by the Saudi Embassy.
Rules and Restrictions for Professional License in Saudi Arabia
To obtain a professional license in Saudi Arabia, several crucial conditions have to be met, depending on the type of activity and ownership structure of the professional company.
- Contribution of Saudi Partner: A Saudi partner holding a professional license must have a minimum ownership of 25% in the company. This percentage is determined based on the activity type and aligns with the specified minimum requirements.
- Ownership by Non-Professionals: The total shareholding by non-professional individuals or entities—whether they are Saudis, Gulf nationals, holders of premium residency, or non-professional companies—should be not more than 30%.
- Reputation of Non-Saudi Professional Companies: If a non-Saudi professional company is involved, it must have a strong reputation in the respective professional field.
- Licensed Representation: Non-Saudi professional companies participating in the venture should ensure that they are represented by individuals who hold the appropriate licenses. These licenses must authorize the practice of the specific profession related to the company’s activity, as issued by the competent authority in their home country or the country of their company’s registration.
- Expertise and Training Contribution: Non-Saudi professional companies are also required to contribute by sharing their expertise and technical knowledge with the professional company. Also, they must take an active role in training Saudi nationals.
- Regulatory Approval: In some cases approval from the relevant regulatory authority in Saudi Arabia must be obtained.
- Details of Previously Licensed Partners: If any partner has previously been granted a license by the Ministry of Investment, this information must be included when entering partner details in the electronic application system.
- Documentation for Saudi or Premium Residency Holders: The application must include the national identity details of Saudi partners or the premium residency/residency data of other partners. For Saudi companies participating in the partnership, their commercial registration details must be provided during the online application process.
By ensuring compliance with these requirements, professional companies can successfully fulfil the licensing process in Saudi Arabia while contributing to the nation’s professional environment.
Achieve Your Professional License in Saudi Arabia With The Help of Analytix
Securing a professional license in Saudi Arabia is a crucial step for businesses and professionals looking to establish themselves in this dynamic market of the Kingdom. But the process can sometimes be intricate due to the specific regulations and requirements. At this juncture, Analytix can help you. With our professional expert assistance, we can help you have a smooth and hassle-free experience. Our experts with a deep understanding of Saudi regulations, can help you handle every aspect of the licensing process. By choosing Analytix, you can ensure compliance and efficiency by focusing on your business. Take the first step to get a professional license in KSA with Analytix’s guidance!
How long Does a Professional License Remain Valid in Saudi Arabia?
In Saudi Arabia, a professional license is issued for a particular time period, typically ranging from two to five years. The validity depends on the expertise of the applicant and their performance in the required assessments. To prolong the tenure of license it is crucial to renew the license before its expiration by submitting a renewal application and, if necessary, completing additional tests.
Overview of Professional License Exam Formats in Saudi Arabia
The professional licensing exams in Saudi Arabia assess core educational knowledge along with pedagogical skills. The teachers aspiring to come to Saudi Arabia can access these exam forms through official platforms provided by the Ministry of Education or at certified preparation centres solely meant to support applicants.
Eligibility Criteria For the Professional License Exam in Saudi Arabia
The professional license exam in Saudi Arabia is open to individuals who wish to pursue teaching as a profession in the country. The following groups are eligible to apply:
- Current Teachers: Teachers who are already employed in public or private schools must obtain this license to continue their teaching credentials.
- Recent Graduates: University graduates holding degrees in education or teaching and wish to begin their professional journey in Saudi Arabia.
- Overseas Teachers: Teachers with qualifications and teaching experience acquired abroad, and wish to work in Saudi Arabia.
- Teachers Seeking Promotion: Educators looking to advance their careers, or specialise further, or qualify for senior teaching roles must pass the relevant tests.
- Professionals Planning Job Change to Teaching: Professionals shifting from other career fields to education may also need to secure this license to validate their qualifications.
All candidates must comply with the requirements set by the Saudi Education and Training Evaluation Authority, which often include specific academic credentials, relevant teaching experience, and successful completion of professional evaluations.
Conclusion
Obtaining a professional license in KSA is a vital step for anyone planning to start a professional journey in Saudi Arabia. The process involves registering through the Ministry of Education’s designated online portal, passing the required tests, and embarking on a rewarding teaching career in an environment known for its high standards.
Hope this blog provided you with details regarding professional license in KSA and how to obtain them. Is there any doubt still in your mind? Write to us and our experts will help you solve your doubts. Do you want assistance in securing a professional license in Saudi Arabia? Ring us today and get expert guidance from top industry professionals.
Until then, happy reading!
