Saudi Arabia Removes Premium Residency Holders' Work Permit Exemption
The work permit exemption for holders of Premium Residency has been terminated in Saudi Arabia. Before joining an employer, anyone seeking employment must now apply for a separate work visa with Qiwa.
For those with Premium Residency, Saudi Arabia has tightened job regulations. The previous provision that permitted them to work without a work permit has been lifted, and anyone given Premium Residency must now obtain a separate work permit before they can lawfully begin working.
This adds an additional compliance stage before joining an employer for international professionals thinking about Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency program.
While employment contracts must still be registered on Qiwa and employees must be enrolled in the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI), the work permit application must be submitted via the Qiwa platform.
Rules for Premium Residency Work Permits Described
In the past, those with Premium Residency were able to take jobs without needing a separate work permit. This exemption is no longer in effect. As per the revised regulations, holders of Premium Residency are required to:Before beginning work, use the Qiwa portal to obtain a work permit.
On Qiwa, register their work contract.
Become a member of the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI).
Uncertainty for Current Residents
One important question is left unaddressed by the new requirement. Saudi officials have not made it clear when any compliance deadlines would apply or whether current holders of Premium Residency must additionally get a work permit.
Employers and employees may need to keep a careful eye on official updates until more guidance is released.
One pRather than being a barrier, we think this is a useful compliance update. Before taking a job in Saudi Arabia, Indian professionals need just account for the additional work permit requirement.attern is emerging. Gulf nations continue to draw in international talent through long-term residency programs while tightening employment regulations.What Employers Should Know About This
Employers who hire people with Premium Residency should revise their onboarding processes to guarantee that new hires have the necessary work permit before to starting work. Employers and employees may have compliance problems if this isn't done.
