Saudi Arabia Ends Work Permit Exemption for Premium Residency Holders

Saudi Arabia has tightened employment rules for Premium Residency holders. Anyone granted Premium Residency must now secure a separate work permit before they can legally start working, ending the earlier exemption that allowed them to work without one.

For foreign professionals considering Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency programme, this adds another compliance step before joining an employer.

The work permit application must be submitted through the Qiwa platform, while employment contracts must still be registered on Qiwa and employees enrolled with the General Organisation for Social Insurance (GOSI).

Premium Residency Work Permit Rules Explained

Previously, Premium Residency holders could accept employment without obtaining a separate work permit. That exemption has now been removed. Under the updated rules, Premium Residency holders must:

• Obtain a work permit through the Qiwa platform before starting employment.
• Register their employment contract on Qiwa.
• Be enrolled with the General Organisation for Social Insurance (GOSI).

Uncertainty for Existing Residents

The new requirement leaves one key question unanswered. Saudi authorities have not clarified whether existing Premium Residency holders must also obtain a work permit or when any compliance deadline would apply.

Until further guidance is issued, employers and employees may need to monitor official updates closely.

One trend is becoming clear. Gulf countries are increasingly tightening employment compliance while continuing to attract global talent through long-term residency programmes.

What This Means for Employers

Companies hiring Premium Residency holders should update their onboarding procedures to ensure new employees receive the required work permit before beginning work. Failure to do so could create compliance issues for both employers and workers.

Travelobiz Take:

We believe this is a practical compliance update rather than a barrier. Indian professionals should simply factor in the extra work permit step before accepting a job in Saudi Arabia.