Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is booming, and Indian nurses are in high demand. But one of the most common questions we hear is: How long does it take to get placed as a nurse in Saudi Arabia from India? Understanding the timeline helps you plan your career move, prepare your documents, and set realistic expectations.

Typical Recruitment Timeline: 3–6 Months

For most Indian nurses, the entire process takes between 3 and 6 months, depending on your documentation, exam schedules, and how quickly you complete each step. This includes everything from initial application to landing in Saudi Arabia and starting your new job1.

Key Steps in the Process

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:

1. Eligibility Check & Application (Week 1–2)
   • Ensure you have a valid BSc Nursing or GNM diploma, at least one year of experience, and an active nursing license.
   • Submit your updated CV and application to your chosen recruitment agency.
   • At Rais Management Services, our team reviews your profile and matches you with suitable hospital openings.
2. Pre-Screening & Interviews (Week 2–4)
   • Attend a pre-screening interview with your recruitment agency.
   • Shortlisted candidates are scheduled for online interviews with Saudi hospitals.
   • Once selected, you receive a formal job offer.
3. Exam & Credential Verification (Week 4–12)
   • Register and prepare for the Saudi Prometric Exam.
   • Complete Dataflow Verification, which authenticates your educational and professional documents.
   • This is often the most time-consuming stage, as exam dates and verification results can vary.
4. Medical & Visa Processing (Week 12–20)
   • Undergo a medical examination and obtain a Police Clearance Certificate.
   • Your employer will initiate the work visa (Iqama) process and handle visa stamping.
   • Most delays at this stage are due to document attestation or medical report issues.
5. Travel & Onboarding (Week 20–24)
   • Once your visa is stamped, book your flight.
   • Your employer arranges accommodation and orientation for your arrival in Saudi Arabia.
   • You begin work as a registered nurse, usually within a week of landing.

Factors That Can Affect the Timeline

• Document readiness: Missing or incomplete paperwork can cause delays.
• Exam scheduling: Prometric exam slots may fill up quickly, so early registration helps.
• Verification speed: Dataflow and background checks can take several weeks.
• Employer processing: Some hospitals process visas and onboarding faster than others.

How Rais Management Services Makes It Faster and Easier

With 23 years of experience and thousands of successful placements, Rais Management Services streamlines every step of the process. Our team provides:

• Personalized guidance on documentation and eligibility
• Fast-tracked exam and Dataflow registration
• Direct connections to top Saudi hospitals
• Ongoing support from application to onboarding

Explore our full range of services to see how we can help you achieve your international nursing dreams—quickly and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the process be completed in less than 3 months?
A: In rare cases, if all documents are ready and exam slots are available, it’s possible. However, 3–6 months is the standard timeline for most candidates1.

Q: What if I fail the Prometric Exam?
A: You can reattempt the exam, but this will add extra weeks to your timeline.

Q: Does Rais Management Services assist with family visas and accommodation?
A: Yes, we provide end-to-end support, including advice on bringing your family and securing housing.

Ready to Start Your Saudi Nursing Journey?

Don’t let uncertainty delay your career move. With the right preparation and expert support, you can start your new life as a nurse in Saudi Arabia in just a few months. Contact Rais Management Services today for a free consultation and personalized timeline assessment.

Let Rais Management Services guide you every step of the way—making your dream of working in Saudi Arabia a reality, faster and easier than you imagined.