Saudi Arabia has introduced a new requirement for Premium Residency holders, mandating them to obtain a dedicated work permit through the Kingdom’s Qiwa digital labor platform before engaging in employment activities.
According to guidance issued through the Qiwa platform, operated by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Premium Residency holders must now secure a separate work permit at a fee of SR100.
The move is part of ongoing efforts to streamline labor regulations and strengthen oversight of the Kingdom’s workforce under the Vision 2030 reform agenda.
The latest update also includes several labor-related procedural changes affecting employers, expatriate workers, and businesses operating in Saudi Arabia.
Qiwa announced that training contracts under the Tamheer program can now be documented electronically through the platform.
However, the ministry clarified that these contracts will not contribute toward Saudization (Nitaqat) targets and will not count toward compliance requirements related to employment contract documentation.
The platform further stated that service fees can be paid through various channels, including bank cards, SADAD payment numbers, and the Qiwa digital wallet, making transactions more convenient for users.
In a significant clarification regarding employment rights, Qiwa confirmed that employees can withdraw resignation requests within seven days, provided the employer has neither accepted the resignation nor delayed a decision during that period.
The platform also noted that notice periods will continue to be governed by the terms agreed upon in individual employment contracts.
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