Job Discussion Forums

[JamaicaBob]

Is it necessary to get a CELTA authenticated for a Saudi visa application, or is it authenticated by the nature of it being numbered and watermarked..etc.?

If it should be authenticated, then how should it be done?

[abayababy]

I did not send in my EFL certificate when I applied for my visa nor was it requested. Fortunate for me as it was earned in '93 and could not be authenticated as the school changed hands in '97 and did not retain previous records. Others where I work had to go to great lengths to have their certificates authenticated at the request of the SACM. There is no consistency. I have a Masters in TESOL now, so if I change employers there shouldn't be an issue. My BA is in History.

[plumpy nut]

You have to have all other relevant documents copied and notarized but not verified, in addition to having your degrees verified, notarized, and having official transcripts sent.

Keep in mind while applying all sorts of unexpected things can happen in the visa process. They wanted the registrar of my bachelorette university to give information beyond official transcripts and a degree verification signed by the registrar. The university said "no", and it delayed the application by several months. I was surprised when the visa finally came. The university they wanted "additional info" from was a major research institute. I'll tell you they can be weird.

[abayababy]

I think that if you will be working for a government university, the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) notarizes your degree. You send them copies not originals. There is a service online called degree verify where you receive a certificate verifying you attended and graduated from your university. They want this paper along with sealed transcripts. I had no problem getting a letter from the registrar along with my transcript. It seemed to me it was something they did fairly routinely when requested.