Saudi Arabia Updates Work Visa Quotas for New Businesses

Saudi Arabia has revised its work visa quotas for new businesses based on their age and participation in the Nitaqat Program, enhancing regulatory compliance.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has introduced a new work visa quota framework that will significantly impact newly established businesses. Under the revised rules, the number of work visas granted to employers directly correlates with how long the business has been operating and its participation in the government's Establishing Programme. New businesses operating for less than two years can apply for up to five work visas, while those established for more than two years may obtain up to 50 work visas through a single application.

This move is part of a broader strategy to manage foreign labor in line with the Nitaqat nationalization program, which aims to balance domestic employment with foreign labor needs. Companies participating in the Establishing Programme will initially start with two work visas, which can increase as they progress through the program and improve their classification.

Source: Envoy Global, Inc – https://www.envoyglobal.com/news-alert/the-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia-updates-work-visa-quotas-for-new-businesses