SamyBesbes

I’m Canadian citizen (I also hold a Tunisian passport) ; I was offered a position in corporate finance at one of the Big 4 in Riyadh. My starting day was November 1, 2011.

After rounds of negotiation, I finally accepted the offer and I am now applying for a business visa. I’m socked to hear that visa processing time for Canadian passports holder is 34 to 45 business days and the application must be submited by an agent.

I would like to know, if my new employer (who is a bit nervous regarding this situation) can cancel the offer. Also, what the hell happened between Canada and KSA?

Thank you for your assistance.

Millhouse

45 business days (i.e. 2 months) is not abnormal even for British passport holders. Your employer knows this.

flares

can they not get you over on a visit visa?

SamyBesbes

The new processing period for any type of Saudi visa is 34 to 45 business day, including the visit visa.

Desert Shaikh

45 days, damn

It took me 2 days to get mine, that was back in 2009.

Millhouse

I'm not sure that is true. That may be the stated time, but I've had 3 Saudi visit visas in as many years (last one 6 months ago) and they have never taken more than a few days to get. Thankfully, I've yet to have to use any of them.

That said, my friend has recently waited just over 3 months (inc. Ramadan) for the first work one so he could go.

Be nice to your company's P.R.O

SamyBesbes

Starting September 1, 2011 the processing time for visas is between 30 to 45 days.
Also, the P.R.O should've advised me about this new regulation and recommended to apply with my Tunisian passport....I guess I should remain positive and take it easy....

northbadawi

The reason is simple - "interference of concerned authorities to help suffering Saudis":
http://arabnews.com/saudiarabia/article471398.ece