Work permit
Also known as: رخصة العمل · Saudi work permit · labour card
A work permit is a licence issued by the Ministry of Human Resources through Qiwa that lets a non-Saudi worker work for a specific establishment in a specific profession. It is renewed with the iqama, the monthly expat levy is paid with it for each expatriate, and issuance and renewal stop while the establishment is in the Red band.
How it works
The permit is issued and renewed in Qiwa, for 3 to 12 months at a time, with the expat levy paid for the period: 800 SAR a month per expatriate, or 700 SAR where the establishment’s expatriates do not outnumber its Saudis, with exemptions for some small establishments and activities. These figures change, so check them on Qiwa.
What it means for HR
- Renew the permit and the iqama together, before they expire.
- The profession on the permit must match the job actually done; changes go through Qiwa.
- Put the levy in the cost of an expatriate hire when comparing.
Work out the yearly cost with the expat cost calculator.
Official sources
This is general information to help you understand the topic. It is not legal advice. Rules and rates change: always check the official text on the relevant authority’s platform and consult a qualified adviser before acting.
