[Saudi Arabia] New skill-based system for expat work permits

In Saudi Arabia, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi has issued a decision classifying the work permits of expat workers into three main skill categories, Zawya reports.

The new categories are: high-skill, skilled, and basic.

The classification of existing work permits and technical system upgrades reportedly began on June 18 for expats currently working in the Saudi labour market. The classification for incoming expat workers came into effect on July 1.

The ministry issued a guidance manual outlining all the details of the decision, which is available on its official website.

This decision is part of broader efforts by the ministry to foster a more attractive and efficient labour market, develop human capital, and enhance the business environment, taking steps towards achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program.

The measure is reportedly intended to enhance worker performance, attract global talent and expertise, improve operational efficiency, benefit from international experience, and build an environment that supports innovation and the development of business models.

According to the Ministry, the decision will improve verification mechanisms and enable better management of the skill-level distribution of expatriate workers in the labour market by ensuring that workers have the requisite skills and qualifications for their job roles, in line with best international practices.

Source: Zawya

In Saudi Arabia, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi has issued a decision classifying the work permits of expat workers into three main skill categories, Zawya reports.

The new categories are: high-skill, skilled, and basic.

The classification of existing work permits and technical system upgrades reportedly began on June 18 for expats currently working in the Saudi labour market. The classification for incoming expat workers came into effect on July 1.

The ministry issued a guidance manual outlining all the details of the decision, which is available on its official website.

This decision is part of broader efforts by the ministry to foster a more attractive and efficient labour market, develop human capital, and enhance the business environment, taking steps towards achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program.

The measure is reportedly intended to enhance worker performance, attract global talent and expertise, improve operational efficiency, benefit from international experience, and build an environment that supports innovation and the development of business models.

According to the Ministry, the decision will improve verification mechanisms and enable better management of the skill-level distribution of expatriate workers in the labour market by ensuring that workers have the requisite skills and qualifications for their job roles, in line with best international practices.

Source: Zawya