Saudi Arabia Mandates Dedicated Work Permits For Premium Residency Holders

Saudi Arabia has rolled out a fresh requirement for Premium Residency holders, and it could affect how they work in the Kingdom. According to new guidance published through Qiwa, Saudi’s digital labour platform, Premium Residency holders now need to secure a dedicated work permit before taking up employment. The permit costs SR100 and must be obtained through the platform.

Saudi Premium Residency Holders Must Get New Work Permit Through Qiwa

But that wasn’t the only update. Qiwa also shared several clarifications covering resignation requests, training contracts, company subscriptions and visa-related processes.

For people holding Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency, getting a work permit is now part of the process if they want to work in the Kingdom. The permit is available through Qiwa, which operates under the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. The fee has been set at SR100. For many residents, the amount itself may not be the biggest issue. It is a fact that there is now a specific procedure that must be completed before employment can move forward.

Employees Get A Short Window To Change Their Mind

Qiwa said employees can withdraw a resignation request within seven days. However, there is a catch. The employer must not have accepted the resignation or postponed a decision during that period.

That means workers who act quickly may still have the option to remain in their role if circumstances change.

The platform also reminded employers and employees that notice periods are not fixed across all jobs. Instead, they depend on the terms written into each employment contract.

Training Contracts Can Now Be Handled Online

The platform also confirmed that Tamheer training contracts can be documented electronically through Qiwa. This should make the process easier for organisations and trainees. But these contracts come with limitations.

They are not counted within Saudisation calculations and do not contribute towards current employment contract documentation compliance requirements. So while the contracts can be managed digitally, they are treated differently from standard employment agreements.

Also Read: Saudia Airlines & ELIE SAAB Unveil Premium First Class Amenity Kit; Here’s What’s Inside!

Visa Mistakes Won’t Be Corrected Later

Qiwa said visa information cannot be changed once a visa has already been issued. If incorrect details are entered, the only solution is to cancel the visa and issue a new one with the correct information.

Also, service fees on the platform can be paid through multiple methods, including bank cards, SADAD payment numbers and the Qiwa digital wallet.

For businesses and employees alike, these updates provide a clearer picture of how key labour-related services will work moving forward.

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