RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has introduced important changes in iqama regulations for foreign workers living in the Kingdom. The new rules aim to protect employee rights and improve transparency in the labor system. As a result, expatriates must now pay closer attention to their residency status and renewal process.
According to Saudi officials, workers who fail to renew their residency permits on time may face legal problems. Therefore, authorities advised all foreign employees to complete renewal procedures through official channels or their sponsors before the expiry date.
The updated iqama regulations also provide relief for some workers. Under the new policy, employees whose Iqama has expired for more than 3 months can transfer to another employer without the current sponsor’s permission. This step aims to reduce exploitation and provide workers with greater legal protection.
Officials explained that the process starts when a new employer issues a job offer. After that, the worker must accept the offer through the official “Qiwa” platform. Once the worker completes the process, the transfer can move forward under Saudi labor laws.
Moreover, authorities said these iqama regulations will create a more secure working environment for expatriates. At the same time, the government wants to strengthen trust between employers and workers across different sectors.
Saudi officials also clarified that these new rules will not cover domestic workers. Separate laws and procedures already govern household employees in the Kingdom. Therefore, domestic workers must follow a different legal process for transfers and employment matters.
In addition, authorities urged workers to clear all financial dues before requesting a transfer. Workers should also ensure that no “Huroob” report exists against their name. A Huroob report can create serious legal issues and may stop the transfer process immediately.
Meanwhile, labor experts believe the latest iqama regulations will help many workers who struggle with delayed renewals and sponsorship disputes. They also expect the new rules to encourage employers to handle residency renewals more responsibly.
Saudi Arabia continues to introduce labor reforms as part of its modernization plans. Consequently, officials hope these changes will improve workplace stability and support economic growth across the Kingdom.
The government also encouraged expatriates to check their residency status on official digital platforms regularly. By following the latest iqama regulations, workers can avoid penalties and continue their employment without interruption.
