Saudi Arabia is the biggest employer of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the world, with almost one million OFWs — the largest Filipino population in the Middle East. In 2024 , more than 419,000 Filipinos were deployed in the Kingdom, including re-hires and newly-hired workers.
Most of these OFWs are hired as engineers, construction workers, doctors, and nurses — becoming part of the country’s thriving oil, construction, and healthcare industries. Likewise, there is a continuing demand for teachers, retail workers, drivers, and domestic workers. Before working in Saudi Arabia, job seekers need to meet certain requirements and steps.
Finding and Securing a Job
The first step is to find a job and secure a legitimate job offer. You can start by searching online, applying through a recruitment agency, or getting in touch with a direct employer, if available. Be sure to verify job orders and agencies on the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) official portal, to avoid becoming a victim of illegal recruitment schemes.
Online Portals for Finding Jobs
When searching online, you can start with the DMW official website, which features approved job orders for OFWs. Simply type “Saudi Arabia” on the search box, and the screen will display job opportunities in the Kingdom.
Meanwhile, here are several other websites that list employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia:
Preparing and Authenticating Documents
Typically, job applicants need to prepare the following documents:
- Valid Philippine Passport (at least six months validity);
- Employment Contract verified by the DMW;
- Saudi Work Visa;
- Medical Clearance Certificate;
- National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance;
- OFW Pass or Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC);
- School Records (e.g. transcript of records, certificates, etc.); and
- Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) License, if applicable.
Moreover, local documents need to be authenticated to be recognized or accepted in other countries. Since the Philippines and Saudi Arabia are both part of the Apostille Convention, an Apostille Certificate can be acquired through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), so that Philippine documents would be recognized in the Kingdom.
Meanwhile, to obtain medical clearance, applicants need to undergo a medical examination in a DMW-accredited clinic. In addition, they must attend the Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) and Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS), as part of the requirements. The recruitment agency will guide and assist you throughout the process.
Getting a Work Permit and Visa
Once all the requirements have been completed, the employer or agency in Saudi Arabia will submit your details and employment contract to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) to acquire your work permit. Once your work permit is approved, your passport will be stamped with a work visa at the Saudi Embassy in Manila.
Furthermore, before your departure, you’ll need to get your OFW Pass or OEC, which serves as proof that you are a legitimate OFW. This also exempts you from paying travel tax at Philippine airports.
Arriving in Saudi Arabia
Upon your arrival in Saudi Arabia, your employer will secure your Iqama or residency permit within 90 days. The Iqama serves as your official residence and work license, and you should carry it with you at all times.
In line with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the country’s economy — we can expect the Kingdom to continue hiring workers in healthcare, engineering, technology, tourism, and other industries. Without a doubt, the Filipino community will continue to play an important role in the economic development of Saudi Arabia for many years.
As for OFWs’ families back home, they can take advantage of the benefits and services offered by OWWA. Children can apply for the OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP), among others. Check out this article for more information about this program.