A Comprehensive Guide to Issuing Work Permits in Saudi Arabia

Issuing work permits in Saudi Arabia is a fundamental requirement imposed by the government on foreign nationals who wish to work within the Kingdom. These permits are part of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s efforts to regulate the labor market and ensure that establishments comply with labor laws and regulations.

What Is a Work Permit?

A work permit is an official document issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD). It grants a non-Saudi worker the legal right to work in the Kingdom.
The work permit is also the basis for issuing and renewing residency permits (Iqama) for all expatriate workers in Saudi Arabia.

Steps to Issue a Work Permit for the First Time

The employer is generally responsible for initiating the work permit process. This is done electronically through the “Qiwa” platform, managed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

The process typically follows these steps:

  1. Obtaining a Work Visa:
    The employer submits a request to hire foreign workers through the MHRSD.
  2. Entering the Kingdom:
    After the work visa is approved, the foreign employee may enter Saudi Arabia legally.
  3. Issuing the Work Permit via Qiwa:
    The employer or authorized representative completes the following steps on the platform:
    • Log in to the establishment’s account on Qiwa.
    • Select the service “Issue or Renew Work Permit” from the electronic services menu.
    • Identify the employee for whom the permit will be issued, using their name or ID number.
    • Specify the permit validity period (3, 6, 9, or 12 months).
    • Pay the required fees via the SADAD system.
    • Upon meeting all requirements, the permit is approved and issued. It can then be printed and used to complete the residency (Iqama) procedures.

Key Conditions for Issuing a Work Permit

To ensure that a work permit application is accepted, the following conditions must be met:

  • The worker must have entered Saudi Arabia legally.
  • The worker must possess professional qualifications or skills needed by the labor market.
  • The employer must have sufficient balance in the Nitaqat program; establishments in the red zone cannot issue or renew work permits.
  • There must be a licensed sponsor or employer authorized to submit the application on behalf of the worker.
  • The worker must have a valid residency permit (for renewal).
  • The worker’s record must be free from labor violations or legal cases.
  • The profession listed in the work permit must match the commercial activity of the establishment.
  • The worker may be required to pass a medical examination to ensure they are free from infectious diseases.

Procedures After Issuing the Work Permit

Once the work permit is issued, the employer must apply for the residency permit (Iqama) for the worker.
This must be completed within 90 days of the employee’s arrival in the Kingdom. The residency permit is a crucial document that proves the legality of the worker’s stay and employment, and it must always be carried by the employee.

Conclusion

Issuing and renewing work permits is a necessary step for any expatriate worker seeking to work legally in Saudi Arabia. It protects workers’ rights while regulating the labor market, ensuring compliance, transparency, and lawful employment practices.