How to Get SCE License 2026 – Complete Step by Step Guide for Pakistani Engineers *Meta Description:* Need an engineering job in Saudi Arabia? You can't get an Engineer Iqama without SCE License. Complete details on SCE registration, fees 2026, documents, process, and approval time for Pakistani engineers.
What is SCE License and Why is it Mandatory in 2026?
SCE stands for Saudi Council of Engineers. It’s the official body that registers every engineer working in Saudi Arabia. Since 2017, the Saudi Government made it mandatory that *an Engineering Iqama will only be issued if you have an SCE License*.
If you are from Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or any engineering field and want to work in Saudi Arabia at Aramco, SABIC, NEOM, or any company, then *your visa will not be stamped without SCE Membership*. Even if a company sends you an offer letter, the Ministry of Labor will reject it.
*Bottom line:* No SCE = No Engineer Iqama = No Job. Working on a Labor or Technician visa is illegal. If caught, you’ll face fines + deportation.
*SCE License Fees 2026 – Total Cost Breakdown*
The total cost for Pakistani engineers is in 3 parts. Rates in SAR, use 1 SAR = 74 PKR:
Cost Item Fee SAR In PKR Detail
**SCE Registration Fees** 500 SAR 37,000 PKR One-time fee to apply first time
**SCE Yearly Membership** 200 SAR 14,800 PKR Must renew every year
**Degree Verification** 300 SAR 22,200 PKR SCE verifies directly with HEC
**Saudi Cultural Embassy** 40 USD 11,200 PKR Degree attestation from Pakistan
**Total First Year** **~1040 SAR** **~85,000 PKR** After that only 200 SAR yearly
*Note:* If you use an agent, they’ll charge 1500-2000 SAR. Do it yourself and it’ll cost 1040 SAR only.
*Required Documents List for SCE License 2026*
Scan all these documents and make PDFs. Mobile photos won’t work, clear scans are required:
1. *Passport Copy* – First page, must be valid for 6+ months
2. *Degree + Transcript* – Attested by HEC, then MOFA Pakistan, then Saudi Embassy Pakistan
3. *PEC Registration Card* – Must be valid. If expired, renew it first
4. *Experience Letters* – Minimum 5 years experience required for bachelor degree holders
5. *Passport Size Photo* – White background, formal dress
6. *Company Offer Letter* – If you’re in Saudi, otherwise not required for applicants from Pakistan
7. *Iqama Copy* – If you’re already in Saudi
*Most Important:* Your degree must have 3 stamps: HEC, MOFA, and Saudi Embassy. If one is missing, SCE will reject it.
*Step by Step Process to Apply on SCE Portal*
Do this yourself, don’t pay agents:
*Step 1: Create Account*
1. Search Google: `SCE login portal`
2. Click *New User* → Select *Non-Saudi Engineer*
3. Create account with email, passport number
*Step 2: Select Engineering Profession*
1. After login, go to *"Engineering Profession Recognition"*
2. Choose your field: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical etc
3. Select *"Bachelor + 5 Year Experience"* if you’re not fresh
*Step 3: Upload Documents*
1. Upload all PDFs one by one
2. Name each file in English: `Degree.pdf`, `Transcript.pdf`
3. *Pay 500 SAR fees* by card. Sadapay, Nayapay cards work
*Step 4: Wait for Verification*
1. SCE will verify your degree directly with HEC. This takes 10-20 days
2. Keep checking email. If any document is rejected, they’ll mention the reason
3. Don’t panic if rejected, just re-upload the correct document
*Step 5: Pay 200 SAR and Get Membership*
Once degree is verified, *"Pay Membership Fee"* button will appear on portal. As soon as you pay 200 SAR, *SCE Certificate will be ready to download as PDF*. Work done.
*Total Time:* If all documents are ready in advance, you’ll have the license in *15 to 30 days*.
*PEC vs SCE License – What’s the Difference?*
Many people get confused. See this table:
Point PEC License Pakistan SCE License Saudi
**Valid In Which Country** Only Pakistan Only Saudi Arabia
**What It Proves** You are an engineer You can work in Saudi
**Mandatory For Jobs** Yes in Pakistan 100% Yes in Saudi
**Fees** 5000 PKR yearly 200 SAR yearly = 14800 PKR
**Is PEC needed for SCE** Yes You need a valid PEC card to get SCE
*Misconception:* PEC is not an international license. It has no value in Saudi until you get SCE.
*Disadvantages of Not Having SCE License – 2026 Update*
1. *Engineer Iqama Won’t Be Issued:* Ministry of Labor system will not process it
2. *Company Fine:* If a company calls you on engineer visa without SCE, there’s a 10,000 SAR fine
3. *Risk of Deportation:* Caught working as engineer on labor visa = game over
4. *Lower Salary:* Technician visa = 4000 SAR, Engineer visa = 12000 SAR. See the difference
*Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ*
*1. Can I get SCE License from Pakistan?*
Yes absolutely. 90% people get it from Pakistan. Get it before the job so visa process is fast.
*2. My degree is old, from 2010. Will it work?*
Yes it will work. Just needs HEC attestation and valid PEC card. You also need to show 5 years experience.
*3. Can Diploma Holders get SCE?*
No. Only BSc/BE Engineering holders. Diploma holders apply in Technician category.
*4. How long is SCE License valid?*
1 year. You must renew every year by paying 200 SAR on the portal.
*5. If SCE rejects me, is fee refunded?*
The 500 SAR fee is non-refundable. So send 100% correct documents.
*Avoid Agents – Apply Yourself*
Agents on Facebook saying "SCE License in 3 days" charge 2000 SAR. It’s a scam. SCE process is online, nobody can speed it up. *Degree verification is done by HEC, it takes 15 days minimum.*

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