Consular Legalization
Korean Document Legalization for Saudi Arabia (사우디아라비아 영사인증)
Saudi Arabia is not a Hague Apostille member, so Korean documents used there require consular legalization instead of an apostille. After issuance or notarization, the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs adds its consular confirmation and the Saudi Embassy in Korea then legalizes the document. An Arabic translation is usually required, often legalized as well. Find an agent on Seoul Apostille who manages the full chain for the employment and corporate documents most often sent to Saudi Arabia.
When This Service Is Relevant
- Taking up employment in Saudi Arabia requiring verified Korean documents
- Attesting a degree or professional qualification for a Saudi employer or authority
- Registering a company or signing contracts in Saudi Arabia
- Submitting a criminal background check or medical record to a Saudi body
- Any Saudi authority that requires embassy legalization rather than an apostille
What to Prepare
- The Korean document(s), with private documents notarized first
- The Saudi employer or authority that will receive them
- Confirmation of whether a legalized Arabic translation is required
- Passport and employment details if requested by the receiving party
Process Notes
- Saudi Arabia is not a Hague member — an apostille will not be accepted; consular legalization is the route.
- Chain: notarization/issuance → MOFA consular confirmation → Saudi Embassy legalization in Korea.
- An Arabic translation is usually required and often must be legalized too — confirm before starting.
- Gulf authorities sometimes add a further attestation step after arrival — check with the receiving party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an apostille for Saudi Arabia?
No. Saudi Arabia is not a Hague Apostille member, so it does not accept apostilles. Korean documents need consular legalization through the Saudi Embassy in Korea, which your chosen agent handles end to end.
Is an Arabic translation required?
Usually yes, and the translation often needs to be legalized alongside the document. Your agent confirms the requirement and provides certified Arabic translation in the same request.
Which documents are common for Saudi Arabia?
Degree and qualification certificates, criminal background checks, medical records, and corporate documents are the most common for employment and business. Tell your agent your purpose and they will confirm the steps.
How long does Saudi legalization take?
Longer than an apostille, since the Saudi Embassy adds its own step after MOFA confirmation, and an Arabic translation is usually involved. Your agent manages the sequence to keep it on schedule.
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