Saudi Arabia is set to radically change its employment rules for foreigners in 2025. The new work permit system is based on a worker’s skill level and involves an assessment based on five criteria. Find out how these changes will affect expats and employers, and how to prepare for the transition to the new model

Saudi Arabia is introducing a new skill-based work permit system for expatriates from July 2025. This is a major milestone in the country’s Vision 2030 strategy to reform the labor market, develop human capital, and improve recruitment efficiency. The initiative is intended to replace the current method of assessing, hiring, and managing expatriate workers across the Kingdom.

Read this article to learn about the major changes to work permits in Saudi Arabia.

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New classification of work permits for expatriates in Saudi Arabia

The new approach is to classify all expatriates working in the country according to three skill levels:

- Highly skilled.

- Skilled.

- Basic

The system is designed to improve the match between workers’ skills and market needs, as well as create transparent rules for hiring and renewing work permits.

How and when will the new work permit classification be implemented in Saudi Arabia?

The following schedule is planned for the implementation of the new system:

- June 18, 2025 - classification of existing foreign workers began.

- July 6, 2025 - full coverage of all working expats.

- August 3, 2025 - the new system will begin to operate for everyone who enters the country for the purpose of employment for the first time.

How will the classification of workers under the new system in Saudi Arabia take place?

Each foreign worker, including citizens of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Iran, is assessed according to five main criteria:

- Education

The presence of appropriate academic qualifications corresponding to the position.

- Professional experience

The number of years during which the person has worked in similar positions in the same industry.

- Skills and Certifications

Proven technical or professional qualifications, certifications or licenses

- Salary Level

Salary must meet the minimum levels set for each of the three employee classes

- Age

The age of the employee at the time of application – in some cases, it may influence the determination of the category.

The assessment will be carried out both during the initial application and when renewing permits. This will help employers more effectively match talent to their business needs and create a more transparent recruitment process.

What does this mean for employers?

- New requirements for job descriptions: companies must adapt job offers to the new standards

- Qualification-based recruitment: employers are required to take the new structure into account in the recruitment process

- Salary optimization: the amount of remuneration must be in line with the defined skill category

What can expats expect?

- Check your eligibility: It is important to assess your education, experience and professional certificates.

- Prepare documents: Update data in employment contracts and permit applications.

- Follow updates: The Ministry of Human Resources publishes updates on the official website, including guides for employees and employers.

Why did Saudi Arabia introduce this reform?

The goal of the reform is to create a balanced, efficient and competitive labor system:

- Optimize the match between position and skills.

- Promote merit-based hiring.

- Improve the quality of labor relations.

- Support the development of the local market and reduce dependence on foreign labor.

The new work permit system in Saudi Arabia is a strategic change that affects all stages - from hiring to renewal of permits. If you are already working or planning to work in Saudi Arabia, it is recommended to prepare all documents in advance, pass a preliminary self-assessment according to the criteria and keep in touch with your employer or recruitment agency.

If you are not sure whether you meet the new criteria, or have questions about legal employment, contact our licensed lawyers.

Leave a request for a consultation right now - and we will help you avoid mistakes in the new system!

Reminder! Have you overstayed your visa in Saudi Arabia? The 30-day grace period, starting on June 27, 2025, allows you to legalize your status and leave without penalties. We have already told you how to apply, who is eligible for this and why it is important to act quickly.