SFDA 2026 E-Permit Walkthrough: Importing Frozen Poultry to Saudi Arabia

Introduction

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has modernized its import permit system for 2026, introducing a fully electronic process that streamlines documentation for qualified importers. This guide walks you through every step of obtaining an e-permit for frozen poultry products.

Prerequisites for SFDA Import Registration

Before applying for an import permit, ensure your business meets these requirements:

• Valid Commercial Registration (CR) with import activities listed
• SFDA Establishment License for food import operations
• Accredited cold storage facilities with temperature monitoring
• Designated customs broker with SFDA clearance authorization

Step 1: Access the SFDA RASFF Portal

Navigate to the official SFDA RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed) portal at rasff.sfda.gov.sa. Log in using your establishment credentials.

Pro Tip: Bookmark the portal and enable two-factor authentication before peak import seasons to avoid access delays.

Step 2: Submit Product Registration

Each product SKU requires individual registration. Prepare the following documents:

Step 3: SASO SABER Registration (Mandatory)

Following SFDA approval, all commercial food shipments require certification via the SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) SABER platform. This system verifies product safety before departure.

1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): Valid for 1 year. Requires submission of your SFDA registration and Halal certificates to an accredited certification body.
2. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): Required for every individual shipment. Issued automatically after linking the commercial invoice to a valid PCoC.

Step 4: ZATCA Clearance & Import Permit (Fasah)

Once products are registered in both SFDA and SABER, submit the import permit application. Customs clearance is managed by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) through the Fasah unified logistics portal.

You must submit the following via Fasah at least 48 hours before vessel arrival:

1. Commercial Invoice - Detailed product specifications and quantities
2. Bill of Lading - Confirmed shipping documents
3. Country of Origin Certificate - Issued by authorized chamber
4. SABER SCoC - The shipment conformity certificate
5. Container Temperature Logs - Continuous monitoring required

Common Rejection Reasons

Avoid these frequent mistakes that delay permit approval:

• Mismatched HS Codes between invoice and product registration
• Expired laboratory certificates (must be <6 months old)
• Missing Arabic labels on product packaging specifications
• Unapproved slaughterhouse not listed in SFDA database

Timeline and Processing

Need Help Navigating SFDA Requirements?

Global Bridge Trading has processed over 500 SFDA permits since 2020. Our team handles documentation, translation, and liaison with SFDA officials.

Contact us for a free consultation on your next poultry import shipment.