Employers in Saudi Arabia have just one day left to renew work permits or transfer the services of foreign workers before an automated system takes effect on July 1, the Qawa platform has announced.
The platform, established under the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, warned that companies must complete the required procedures by June 30 to avoid automatic removal of eligible workers from their records and possible financial liabilities.
According to Qawa, employees whose work permits have been expired for more than three months will be automatically removed from their employer’s records starting July 1.
However, the platform clarified that companies will remain responsible for paying all outstanding fees and financial obligations accumulated during the period in which the employee remained on their records.
Residency period determines removal
Qawa explained that workers who have 180 days or more remaining on their residency (Iqama) will not be removed from the company’s records, even if their work permits have not been renewed.
If a worker has less than 180 days of residency validity, the employer must renew both the residency permit and the work permit to maintain the employee’s legal status.
Employers urged to clear dues
The platform urged employers to settle all outstanding fees before the June 30 deadline and complete the renewal or service transfer process for affected workers without delay.
Qawa also advised companies to regularize the legal status of all affected employees in time to avoid legal action, administrative issues and financial penalties.
