If you’re considering living and working in Saudi Arabia, it’s crucial to be aware of the Skill Verification Programme. This program mandates that foreign workers in certain occupations must undergo theoretical and practical testing before being granted a visa.
The Saudi Skill Verification Programme, also known as the Professional Accreditation Programme, was established in 2021 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC). Its primary objective is to enhance the skill level of the Saudi labour market.
To help you prepare for the test and determine which occupations it applies to, we’ve compiled all the necessary information.
What is the Skill Verification Programme?
The programme entails a comprehensive skills verification exam that comprises both theoretical and practical elements. The theoretical test spans 30 minutes, while the practical exam takes 90 minutes.
The exam is mandatory for foreign workers who are currently employed in Saudi Arabia, referred to as the internal track of the programme, as well as foreign workers who are being recruited for the occupations listed within SVP, which is known as the external track of the programme.
To facilitate the exam process, Saudi Arabia has established multiple test centres within and outside the country, enabling workers to take the test with ease.
As per a 2022 report in Saudi Gazette, MHRSD launched the first phase of the external track of the programme in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.
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The Saudi Arabian government has implemented a comprehensive skills verification exam that encompasses both theoretical and practical elements. The theoretical test spans a concise 30 minutes, while the practical exam takes a more extensive 90 minutes.
The exam is mandatory for foreign workers who are currently employed in Saudi Arabia, referred to as the internal track of the programme, as well as foreign workers who are being recruited for the occupations listed within SVP, which is known as the external track of the programme.
To facilitate the exam process, Saudi Arabia has established multiple test centres within and outside the country, enabling workers to take the test with ease.
As per a 2022 report in Saudi Gazette, MHRSD launched the first phase of the external track of the programme in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.
By implementing this programme, Saudi Arabia aims to ensure that foreign workers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. This initiative will not only benefit the workers but also contribute to the country’s economic growth and development.
In conclusion, the skills verification exam is a crucial step towards enhancing the quality of the workforce in Saudi Arabia. The government’s efforts to establish test centres and launch the programme in various countries demonstrate its
Who needs to take the test?
According to the SVP website, the categories and occupations for the test include:
- Plasterer
2. Automotive Electrician
3. Carpentry
4. Plumbing
5. Welding
6. Communication
7. Shuttering Carpenter
8. Tilling
9. Machines
10. Blacksmith
11. Painting
12. Automotive Primary Service
13. Automotive Mechanics
14. Construction and Building
15. Electrician
16. Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning
17. Car body Repair
How can one take the test?
If you are a resident of Saudi Arabia and wish to register for the Skill Verification test, follow these simple steps:
- Head over to the SVP website.
2. Locate the test centre closest to your area of expertise.
3. Schedule an appointment at your convenience.
4. Log in to your SVP account.
5. Follow the instructions provided to complete the registration process.
The theoretical test will take approximately 30 minutes to complete, while the practical exam will require 90 minutes of your time.
The cost of the Skill Verification test is 470 Saudi Riyals (equivalent to Dh460).
How companies can sign up to get workers tested for SVP?
Employers seeking to hire workers under the categories listed above must follow a few simple steps, as outlined on the official SVS website:
Step 1: Sign in to the SVP Portal
The employer must first sign in to the SVP portal at svp.qiwa.sa. This will grant them access to the necessary tools and resources to proceed with the hiring process.
Step 2: Pay for the Test
Next, the employer must make the payment for the test. This is a necessary step to ensure that the employee is qualified and capable of performing the job duties required.
Step 3: Book an Appointment
Once payment has been made, the employer can then book an appointment for the employee at any of the SVS centres. The employee will need to attend the designated centre on the appointment date to take the test.
Step 4: Check the Results
The result of the test will be displayed on the employer’s dashboard. This will provide valuable insight into the employee’s qualifications and abilities, helping the employer make an informed hiring decision.
It’s important to note that the test result is valid for five years, providing long-term value and peace of mind for employers. By following these simple steps, employers can ensure that they are hiring the best possible candidates for their business needs.
