Saudi Arabia New Work Visa System
An important change to Saudi Arabia’s work visa policy has been implemented, which may help qualified foreign workers who wish to work in the Kingdom. All foreign workers will now be formally categorized into three skill levels for the first time: basic, skilled, and high-skilled, according to the Saudi Arabia New Work Visa System.
In the past, Saudi Arabia granted work permits primarily on the basis of job titles rather than explicitly tying them to credentials, pay scales, or real skill sets, which frequently resulted in role and worker profile mismatches.
Part of the Kingdom’s ongoing Vision 2030 reforms, the new policy went into effect for current employees on July 5, 2025, and will be applicable to new hires starting on August 3, 2025.
Why Is This Important?
To increase workforce standards, draw in highly skilled workers, and assist job seekers in finding more appropriate positions. Which skill categories are new?
Highly skilled: saved for occupations such as IT specialists, engineers, and physicians. Applicants must pass a points-based exam that takes into account their training, work history, and income.
Skilled: Intermediate positions like administrative assistants, supervisors, and technicians. They don’t have to reach the high-skilled points threshold, but they do need some experience and validated credentials.
Basic: This category includes jobs that require manual labor and assistance. Employees in this group must be younger than 60. Why it is important to job seekers
Applying for a job in Saudi Arabia is now more transparent and predictable thanks to the new system. Employers must ensure that your classification matches your contract and qualifications so you know where you stand.
More importantly, the new structure makes it easier for job seekers with technical or educational backgrounds to advance to higher-level positions. Professional accreditation programs such as Qualification Verification and Skills Verification will now significantly influence employment eligibility. Employers’ obligations
Employers must now:
Make sure that all foreign hires, both new and existing, are appropriately classified.
Modify employee records and job titles on the Qiwa platform.
If the initial classification appears to be incorrect, please submit the necessary corrections.
Incorrect classification may impact a business’s future ability to hire foreign workers. Ways to increase your chances
How to Get a Higher Salary According to Your Skills?
Obtain records of your training and work history.
Consider enrolling in Saudi Arabia-approved verification programs.
Ensure that your job title and responsibilities accurately reflect in your employment contract.
