Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations governing the issuance of work visas for foreign domestic workers.
These changes come as part of the country's broader initiative to modernize its labor market and establish transparent and fair relationships between employers and domestic workers.
The Ministry of Human Resources has raised the bar for obtaining visas to hire foreign domestic workers, particularly focusing on individuals aged 24 and above. The move is intended to ensure a more mature and responsible workforce in the domestic sector.
Eligibility criteria and financial capacity
Under the revamped rules, Saudi citizens, Gulf nationals, foreign wives of Saudi men and their mothers, along with holders of Saudi premium residency permits, are eligible to apply for visas.
However, eligibility is contingent upon the financial capacity of the employer, aligning with the government's efforts to secure the well-being of domestic workers.
Musaned platform
At the forefront of this transformation is the Musaned platform, a comprehensive system developed by the Ministry of Human Resources.
This digital platform educates users about their rights and responsibilities and provides a range of services, including visa application processes, recruitment requests, and employment relationship management. It also facilitates the seamless transfer of wages through digital means, such as STC Pay and Urpay apps.
Categories covered
The new regulations cover a wide array of domestic worker categories, including housekeepers, drivers, housemaids, cleaners, cooks, guards, farmers, tailors, live-in nurses, tutors, and nannies.
The aim is to bring transparency and efficiency to the recruitment process while providing a robust mechanism for dispute resolution, safeguarding the rights of both employers and domestic workers.
This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to modernize its labor market, ensuring fair treatment and clear contractual relationships within the domestic labor sector.
By implementing these measures, the government aims to foster a more organized and efficient system that prioritizes the well-being of both employers and foreign domestic workers.
