Moving to the UK from Saudi Arabia: Guide 2026
What you need to know
- •TB test IS required; English language test IS required.
- •Student visa is the most popular route (government scholarship programmes).
- •Budget SAR 20,000 to 50,000 for visa costs.
- •Police certificate available through Absher.
- •Saudi Arabia does not recognise dual citizenship.
Saudi Arabia has a significant student community in the UK, supported by government scholarship programmes. Saudi nationals can also move through work and family visa routes. This guide covers the main pathways and requirements.
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Visa Routes for Saudi Citizens
- Student visa. The most common route. Many Saudi students are funded by government scholarships. See the student visa guide.
- Skilled Worker visa. Requires a licensed sponsor at the minimum salary.
- Family visa. See the spouse visa guide.
- Graduate route. See the Graduate route guide.
Document Requirements
- Valid Saudi passport.
- TB test. Required. Available at approved clinics in Riyadh and Jeddah.
- English language test. Required. IELTS widely available across Saudi Arabia.
- Police certificate. Through the Ministry of Interior or Absher portal.
- Certified translation. Arabic documents must be translated into English.
Costs in Saudi Riyal
- Skilled Worker visa fee: £719 to £1,420 (approximately SAR 3,400 to 7,100)
- IHS (per year): £1,035 (approximately SAR 4,900)
- Student visa fee: £490 (approximately SAR 2,300)
- English test: approximately SAR 1,000 to 1,400
See our UK visa fees guide.
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Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.
The Saudi Community in the UK
The Saudi community in the UK is primarily composed of students and their families. London, Oxford, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh are popular destinations. The Saudi Arabian Cultural Bureau in London coordinates student affairs and scholarship programmes.
After Arrival
- Collect your BRP within 10 days
- Apply for a National Insurance number if working
- Register with a GP
- Open a UK bank account
Important: Dual Citizenship
Saudi Arabia does not recognise dual citizenship. Acquiring British citizenship would mean losing Saudi citizenship. This is a critical consideration before applying for British citizenship. Many Saudi nationals choose to maintain their Saudi citizenship and hold ILR instead.
Next Steps
For official information, visit the British Embassy Riyadh and the GOV.UK Student visa page.
This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an OISC-registered adviser or immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the latest rules.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.