The demand for skilled nurses continues to grow globally, and Saudi Arabia is among the countries actively seeking professionals in this field. The State Department for Labour and Skills Development has announced its third recruitment drive for Kenyan nurses to work in government hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This opportunity offers attractive compensation, benefits, and the chance to work in a global healthcare environment.
Here’s everything you need to know about the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of working as a nurse in Saudi Arabia.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Saudi Arabia nursing positions, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Gender and Age:
- Applicants must be female and aged 44 years or below.
- Educational Qualifications:
- Hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing or a Diploma in Nursing-Midwifery (minimum of three years post-secondary school education, as per European Union standards).
- Licensing:
- Be a registered and licensed member of the Nursing Council of Kenya and maintain good standing.
- Documents:
- A valid Kenyan passport.
- A current Police Clearance Certificate.
- Experience:
- At least one year of work experience in hospital-based patient care, including inpatient, emergency room (ER), or intensive care unit (ICU) settings.
- English Proficiency:
- Strong skills in written and spoken English are essential.
- Prometric Test:
- Applicants must have valid Prometric test results. Those without the test can take it either in Kenya or Saudi Arabia. The test cost will be deducted from the employee’s salary in three installments.
- Data Flow Verification:
- A Dataflow verification report for the education certificate, Nursing Council license, or latest employment certificate is mandatory.
Benefits and Terms of Employment
- Contract Duration:
- Initial contract for one year, renewable.
- Salary Range:
- USD 1,400 – 2,300 (equivalent to Ksh 192,000 – 315,000) per month, depending on qualifications and experience.
- Work Schedule:
- Eight hours per day, with overtime paid according to Saudi Labour Laws.
- Paid Annual Vacation:
- Includes a free round-trip economy ticket to Kenya.
- Professional Growth:
- Gain international experience in a fast-growing healthcare system.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for nursing jobs in Saudi Arabia:
- Register on the Saudi Ministry of Health Recruitment Platform:
- Visit the Saudi Ministry of Health Recruitment Platform.
- Create an account and complete your profile.
- Upload the required documents, including educational certificates, passport, and police clearance.
- Apply on the National Employment Authority Portal:
- Access the National Employment Authority Job Portal.
- Sign up, fill in your details, and submit your application.
Note: Applicants must complete the application process on both platforms by 3rd January 2025.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Prepare Documents in Advance:
- Ensure your passport, police clearance certificate, and educational credentials are up to date.
- Prometric Test Preparation:
- Study relevant nursing materials and practice sample Prometric test questions to improve your chances of success.
- Dataflow Verification:
- Initiate the Dataflow verification process early to avoid delays.
- Double-Check Applications:
- Carefully review your application for accuracy before submission on both platforms.
- Monitor Your Email:
- Stay alert for communications regarding your application status and any additional requirements.
Why Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is a top destination for healthcare professionals seeking international exposure. Here are some reasons Kenyan nurses are choosing to work in Saudi Arabia:
- Attractive Salaries: Competitive pay compared to many Kenyan institutions.
- Tax-Free Income: Salaries are not subject to income tax, increasing take-home earnings.
- Cultural Experience: Exposure to a multicultural work environment and opportunities for personal growth.
- High Demand: A growing healthcare system ensures job stability and opportunities for career advancement.
Common Questions About the Process
1. Can male nurses apply for these positions?
No, this recruitment drive is open only to female nurses.
2. What happens if I don’t pass the Prometric test?
Applicants are required to pass the Prometric test to qualify. You can retake the test if needed, but fees will apply.
3. Is the contract renewable?
Yes, contracts are renewable upon mutual agreement and satisfactory performance.
4. Can I travel with my family?
Employment visas for these positions typically do not include provisions for dependents.
Contact Information for Assistance
- State Department for Labour and Skills Development: Visit their offices for guidance.
- Saudi Recruitment Office in Kenya: For additional queries, contact the office directly.
Globo Tips: Stay connected with fellow Kenyan nurses already working in Saudi Arabia through online forums for insights and advice.
Applying for nursing jobs in Saudi Arabia is a golden opportunity for Kenyan nurses to elevate their careers. With attractive benefits, competitive pay, and the chance to work in a dynamic healthcare environment, it’s a path worth considering. Ensure you meet all requirements, apply on time, and prepare adequately for the process.
Take the leap today and start your journey toward a rewarding international nursing career!
