What is the Saudi Skill Verification Program (SVP)?
Under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) launched the Professional Verification Program (Skill Verification Program - SVP) to ensure that skilled workers entering the Kingdom possess verifiable competence in their declared trades.
For Indian candidates, this means that before a work visa can be stamped by the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in New Delhi or the Consulate in Mumbai, candidates in designated trades must pass an official SVP assessment.
Which Trades Require SVP Testing?
The program covers critical blue-collar and skilled technical occupations, including:
Building & Industrial Electricians
Plumbers & Pipe Fitters
HVAC & Refrigeration Technicians
Automotive Mechanics & Auto Electricians
Welders (SMAW, TIG, MIG) and Structural Fabricators
Carpenters (Shuttering & Finishing)
Masons (Tile, Plaster & Block)
Exam Structure: Theoretical & Practical
The SVP assessment is divided into two distinct components conducted on the same day:
Part 1: Computer-Based Theoretical Test (30 Minutes)
Format: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Languages Available: English, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic, and regional Indian languages.
Content: Basic safety knowledge (PPE, fire safety), tool identification, trade measurement, blueprint symbols, and fault isolation logic.
Tip: No advanced mathematics is required; focus is on safe and proper trade terminology.
Part 2: Hands-on Practical Examination (60–90 Minutes)
Supervision: Monitored by certified evaluators at an authorized Indian test facility.
Tasks Assigned:
For Electricians: Wiring a two-way switch circuit, installing a circuit breaker panel, or using a multimeter to detect continuity faults.
For Plumbers: Cutting, threading, and solvent-welding PPR/PVC pipe connections with leak-free pressure testing.
For HVAC Techs: Brazing copper tube joints, vacuum pump hookup, and gauge manifold readings.
Scoring: Graded on safety practices, tool handling, accuracy of measurements, cleanliness, and final functional operation.
Authorized Testing Centers in Mumbai
SVP tests are conducted only at accredited training institutions and testing workshops certified by the Saudi Ministry. Mahad Manpower India coordinates official appointment slots, mock trade orientations, and biometric verification at recognized test hubs across Mumbai.
What Happens When You Pass?
Your passing certificate is uploaded electronically directly to the Saudi Ministry's Qiwa database.
The Saudi Embassy in India cross-verifies your SVP certificate number during the visa stamping process.
Certificates remain valid for 5 years, enabling candidates to renew or transfer contracts without retaking the test during that window.