Job Discussion Forums

stozi · Joined: 24 Oct 2013 Posts: 4

Hello, I've been offered a job in the KSA. They want someone yesterday-ish. I have Canada-specific questions about the visa application process:

1: I've ordered a criminal record check, then discovered backcheck.net can do it in 24hrs. If anyone's used it successfully, I'd like to hear it.

2: It seems the other big issue is apostille, like notarisation, for my credentials, right? KSA Embassy says: "The documents must be certified by a notary and then by the Department of Foreign Affairs Legalization Division in Ottawa." Must I send my degree to Ottawa?? I got my CELTA in Ukraine, any forseeable issues there?

The school says they're "sending me the visa and I take it to the consulate (well, agent) and they'll put it in my passport."

anything else I should be aware of? My degree is 'honours Asian languages and culture, minor in Russian,' btw, not English or applied linguistics.

Is it true that it's only possible to apply for a visa in one's own country?

I understand that this process will not follow the norms of modern bourgeois 'rationalized' bureaucracy. I've spent long enough in Asia and the former USSR, I don't think I have any expectations left whatsoever. Just along for the ride, hope it works out

nomad soul · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 11454 Location: The real world

What type of visa are you to be issued? A valid employment visa entails a med exam and battery of lab tests, authentication of your degree, and a criminal background report.

plumpy nut · Joined: 12 Mar 2011 Posts: 1652

The website for Saudi Embassy in Ottawa says you have to obtain the visa through an officially accepted agency. It sort of sounds like to me you haven't contacted any official visa agencies. That's the first thing you need to do and the agency will tell you what they need.

stozi · Joined: 24 Oct 2013 Posts: 4

Right thanks yes, I'm off to the clinic right now. I do have this site to go on:

http://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/canada/EN/ConsulateSection/Visa/Pages/Employment.aspx

There is a link there to a list of approved agents. Sorry to be unclear I'm not asking whether or not I need a med check, criminal background check, and stamped degree copies. I notice from these fora that some time ago only people with English or Applied Linugistics degrees were being issued visas. I wonder if I have a chance then. I'd appreciate any up-to-date anecdotal experience relevant to my situation. Thanks!