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Physician jobs & Nursing Jobs in Saudi Arabia > Saudi Arabia - Insights and Tips for International Healthcare Professionals > Saudi Arabia - Recruitment Process for Nurses 2025

Recruitment and onboarding logistics for a nursing post in Saudi Arabia

How Long Does the Recruitment Process Take?

For nurses applying for a one-year renewable contract, the typical recruitment and onboarding process takes about 8-10 months, taking into account your notice/resignation period. When you apply for a position, we will provide you with a realistic time estimate. Once you have accepted a job offer, your recruiter will revise this estimate and create a detailed plan with you. Here is a rough guide to the recruitment and onboarding process:

Week 1: You will receive an application pack by email and a call from a recruiter to explain everything you need to know.

Week 2: Application paperwork and initial pre-screening interview.

Week 3: Your application is sent to the hospital for review.

Week 4: Final interview with the hospital (typically via Microsoft TEAMS).

Week 5: An offer of employment is issued.

Weeks 6-26: Licensing, compliance checks, medical and visa processing.

Weeks 26-30: A visa is issued, and you resign from your current job.

Weeks 30-38: Work notice period and completion of onboarding logistics.

You will travel for the next available orientation following your last workday.

*The process for a permanent contract can be long! You could consider going on a Locum contract first as this is significantly quicker to process. Find out more about our Locum contracts here.

What Are the Costs Involved in the Recruitment Process?

First and foremost, our services are free to you. We are paid by the hospital once you start work.

There are costs associated with moving to another country for work. Each case is slightly different, so it will vary. Your recruiter will provide realistic estimates when you apply, so you will know what to expect before agreeing to anything. Here are some typical costs you may need to cover:

Official translation of certificates
Licensing with the Saudi Council for Health Professionals
Medical tests
Visa application
Police certificates
Document attestation

Some of these costs may be eligible for reimbursement, depending on the terms of your offer. Your recruiter will explain these costs and provide estimates when you apply, so you'll know exactly what to expect.

What Will I Be Asked During the Interview?

During your interview for a nursing position in Saudi Arabia, you will be asked questions about:

Your experience as a nurse
Clinical questions related to your specialty
General questions about why you want to work in Saudi Arabia

We provide interview training and guidance to help you feel fully prepared.

Do I Need to Pass an English Language Test?

Yes, the working language in our hospitals is English, so your language skills must meet the required standard for safe and effective practice. If you are not a native English speaker, we will test your English skills as part of the application process.

Do I Need to Pay for My Own Flights?

No, the hospital pays for your ticket when you start work and when you leave. If you stay for longer than one year, your contract typically includes a mid-year return flight home for a holiday.

I've Heard That I'm Not Allowed to Keep My Passport After Arrival - Is This True?

It used to be the case that employers held onto employees' passports, but this is no longer the norm.

What If There Is an Emergency at Home During My Probation Period? Am I Allowed to Leave?

Yes, you would discuss the individual situation with your manager, and the hospital would work with you to make the necessary arrangements. Each case is handled individually, but our hospitals handle such issues very well.

Do I Have to Get a Visa Every Time I Want to Leave Saudi Arabia?

Yes, you will need to get an exit/re-entry visa. You can apply for a multiple exit/re-entry visa once you have your Iquama (work permit).

Do I Need to Learn Arabic?

Basically, no, but you are encouraged to learn some basic skills! While the working language of the hospitals is English, Arabic-speaking medical staff may speak Arabic to each other except during doctor's rounds. Your patients will normally speak only Arabic, but there are interpreters in the hospital for this reason. Many nurses are Arabic-speaking and will be happy to help new employees with some translation. The hospitals provide Arabic courses, and we recommend that you take advantage of these.

Will I Have an Orientation When I Arrive at the Hospital?

Yes, you can expect the orientation period to last 2-3 weeks. It will include a review of the hospital nursing policy and procedures, standard courses, and an introduction to life in Saudi Arabia. During orientation, you must pass a medication calculation test. You will be taught and tested for exams in Basic Life Support, infection control, and, for example, neonatal nurses would do an NRP exam. You will receive more details about the orientation procedure once you have accepted a job offer, as it varies slightly from hospital to hospital.

Do I Need to Apply for a Nursing License in Saudi Arabia

Yes, you must obtain a nursing license from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). At Profco, we will assist you throughout the licensing process. You can click here to learn more.

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