Question about sponsoring a foreign worker

Hi everyone,

I need a little help if you all don't mind.

I am sponsoring a housemaid from the Philippines, and I am unclear of the process.


1. Can her medical be completed from another country other than from the Philippines? 

2. Can we just get the visa number allotted then instruct her to go to the Saudi Embassy in the Philippines along with all supporting documents to have her visa issued? 

3. Is it absolutely mandatory to go through an agent?  Can't we just sponsor her this way as described and send her an e-ticket for her airfare?   [if we MUST go through an agent, where would I find such an agent?]

4. Is it possible for her to come here on an Umrah Visa and then I file her documents and change her status to work as a housemaid?



thank you!