This cross-sectional study provides contextual validation of Schein’s (1990) career anchor model using a sample of 344 self-initiated (SE) and 74 conventional (CE) expatriates working in the banking sector in Saudi Arabia. The principal components analysis (PCA) offers support for a nine anchors construct model in contrast with the original eight-anchor model comprising technical/functional competence, managerial competence, security and stability, autonomy and independence, entrepreneurial traits, creativity, service and dedication to a cause, pure challenge and lifestyle. The findings from the logistic regression analysis reveal that SEs were more anchored by the ‘pure challenge’ and ‘security and stability’ career orientations compared to their CE counterparts. The position level variable was the only control variable that made significant contributions to the career orientations model. The results also reveal that ‘technical and functional competence’ was among the top career orientations for this sample of CEs and SEs in the banking sector.