Since 2025, Saudi Arabia has initiated a major reform of its work permit system for expatriates. Now, each permit is classified according to the worker's skill level. The goal? To align with international standards, attract top talent, and optimize labor market management within the framework of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
A Modernized Labor Market
Until now, most expatriates benefited from a single system, without clear distinction based on their qualifications. To remedy this, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) established a new framework based on three main categories: Highly Skilled, Skilled And Basic. Each category corresponds to specific criteria, allowing for the recognition of the worker's training, experience and actual role.
Three Categories, Clear Criteria
1. Highly Skilled
This first category targets managers, engineers, doctors, technical experts and other highly specialized professionals.
Criteria:
- Higher education or qualifications specific to the profession
- Significant professional experience
- Salary above a certain threshold set by the ministry
- Validation through a professional accreditation program (evaluation of diplomas, experience and skills)
- Transition from a point-based system combining all these elements
2. Skilled
This category includes technicians, specialized craftsmen, supervisors, and trades requiring technical training or advanced experience.
Criteria:
- Appropriate training or diploma
- Proven experience
- Minimum salary defined for the "Skilled" level«
- Skills validation through accreditation if necessary
3. Basic
It includes so-called basic jobs, often non-technical, such as maintenance workers, delivery drivers, helpers, laborers, etc.
Criteria:
- No strict diploma requirements
- Compensation below the "Skilled" level«
- Age limit: under 60 years old at the time of application
- Accreditation required depending on the position
A Detailed and Transparent Process
The entire process of applying for, classifying, and managing permits is centralized via the official platform. Qiwa. This is where employers submit applications, verify the assigned category and, if necessary, request a reassessment in case of disagreement.
The professional accreditation system plays a central role: it ensures that each worker actually possesses the skills displayed, thus limiting abuses and fictitious jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the different skill levels introduced? What changes are expected in the labor market after the implementation of this classification?
Following the implementation of this new system, every non-Saudi worker, whether already employed or newly arrived in the Kingdom, will have their work permit classified according to a skill level. This classification will be accessible directly through the employer's account via the Ministry's systems (Qiwa platform).
The skill levels are:
- Highly skilled
- Skilled
- Basic
2. How does the points system work for highly skilled work permit applications, and what criteria are taken into account?
The points system assesses candidates based on three main criteria: academic qualifications, professional experience, and salary level. A specific number of points is awarded for each criterion, depending on the candidate's background. If the total points obtained exceed the threshold set by the Ministry, the candidate is eligible for the highly qualified permit.
This system is flexible: strong performance in one criterion can compensate for weakness in another. For example, a candidate with extensive experience but a lower qualification can still be accepted if they accumulate enough points across the board.
3. Do the new classification criteria also apply to expatriate workers already present in the Kingdom?
Yes, the classification applies to all expatriate workers already employed in the Kingdom. Employers can request a correction to the classification by verifying that the job titles are accurately reflected in the employment contract documented on the Qiwa platform.
4. Will work permit holders be able to change their skill level?
Yes, work permit holders will have the opportunity to change their skill level, provided they meet the criteria required for the desired level.
Key points to remember :
- The criteria are strict, but transparent and can be viewed on the Qiwa portal.
- The procedures are automated, fast, and subject to appeals.
- Minimum wages and required experience are tailored to each sector and regularly reviewed.
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