Work in Saudi Arabia
Migration pathway for Nigerian healthcare professionals
Processing Time
3 to 9 months
Estimated Cost
N1M to N4M
Primary Exam
Prometric (SCFHS)
Visa
Employment Visa (Iqama)
Overview
Saudi Arabia is a top destination for Nigerian healthcare professionals due to relatively straightforward licensing, employer-covered costs, and tax-free salaries. The Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) oversees licensing. Most employers handle visa, housing, and flights.
Step-by-Step Pathway
Choose your cadre to see the specific pathway.
Dataflow verification
All qualifications must be verified through Dataflow Group. This includes your medical degree, MDCN registration, and work experience. Employers usually initiate this process.
Prometric (SCFHS) Examination
Computer-based exam specific to your specialty. Tests clinical knowledge relevant to Saudi healthcare practice. Can be taken at Prometric centres in Nigeria.
SCFHS Classification and Registration
SCFHS classifies your qualifications and experience level. This determines your practice grade (Consultant, Specialist, Resident, or General Practitioner).
Job offer and contract
Secure a job offer from a Saudi hospital or medical city. Government hospitals (MOH, National Guard, KFSH&RC) and private groups (Habib, Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib) are major employers.
Employment visa and iqama
Employer processes your employment visa and residence permit (iqama). They cover visa costs, flights, and usually provide housing or housing allowance.
Cost Breakdown
All costs shown in both foreign currency and Nigerian Naira (2026 estimates).
| Item | Cost (Foreign) | Cost (Naira) |
|---|---|---|
| Dataflow Verification | SAR 375 | N150,000 |
| Prometric (SCFHS) Exam | SAR 400 | N160,000 |
| SCFHS Registration | SAR 200 | N80,000 |
| Medical checkup | N50,000 | N50,000 |
| Police clearance | N10,000 | N10,000 |
| Visa processing | SAR 0 | Free |
| Flights | SAR 0 | Free |
Exams Required
Prometric (SCFHS) Exam
Available in NigeriaComputer-based exam tailored to your healthcare specialty. Covers clinical knowledge, patient safety, and professional practice in the Saudi context. Question banks are available online.
Key Requirements
- ✓Medical or nursing degree from a recognised institution
- ✓Full MDCN or NMCN registration
- ✓Minimum 2 years post-qualification experience (varies by employer)
- ✓Dataflow verification of all credentials
- ✓Prometric exam pass
- ✓Medical fitness test (including HIV, Hepatitis B/C screening)
- ✓Police clearance certificate
- ✓Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
Visa: Employment Visa (Iqama)
Saudi Arabia uses an employer-sponsored visa system. Your employer applies for an employment visa and residence permit (iqama) on your behalf. The iqama is tied to your employer. Contracts are typically 2 to 3 years, renewable. Benefits usually include housing (or allowance), annual return flights, end-of-service gratuity, and medical insurance. All income is tax-free.
Tips for Nigerian Professionals
- ◆Saudi salaries are tax-free, which makes the take-home pay significantly higher than it appears compared to UK or US roles.
- ◆Government hospitals (MOH, National Guard) offer better job security and benefits. Private hospitals may offer higher base salary.
- ◆Recruitment agencies in Nigeria that place in Saudi Arabia include Workforce Group, Lorache Consulting, and several specialized medical agencies. Verify their credentials carefully.
- ◆Never pay for a job placement. Legitimate employers cover all recruitment costs.
- ◆Women healthcare professionals work in Saudi Arabia with no restrictions in healthcare settings. Hospitals are mixed-gender workplaces.
- ◆Learn basic Arabic greetings and medical terms. While hospitals use English, patients often speak Arabic.
- ◆The end-of-service gratuity (half month salary per year for first 5 years, full month per year after) adds up significantly.
- ◆Housing is typically provided or a housing allowance of 25% of base salary is standard.
Verify before you act
Exam fees, visa costs, and requirements change frequently. The information on this page was last reviewed in April 2026. Always confirm fees and requirements directly with the official body before making payments or decisions.
Exchange rates are approximate and fluctuate daily.
Ready to start your Saudi Arabia journey?
Create your free CadreHealth profile to track your credentials, exams, and migration progress.