World Immigration News

Saudi Arabia introduces permanent residency and regulates expatriate outsourcing

Release Date: 2025-12-01
Media: DLA Piper
Summary: Saudi Arabia is advancing its modernization of immigration and labor systems through two major initiatives: a new permanent residency scheme and new regulations governing the outsourcing of expatriate workers. Both are part of a broader national strategy to attract global talent, enhance competitiveness, and improve labor market transparency.

New Permanent Residency Scheme:
The Kingdom has introduced a permanent residency program with a fee of SAR 4,000, eliminating the traditional sponsorship (kafala) requirement. Holders gain access to government services, banking, education, healthcare, and can sponsor family members. The scheme targets highly skilled professionals in fields such as AI, cybersecurity, data science, cardiac surgery, oncology, renewable energy, space technology, and urban planning. Applicants must have clean criminal records, stable legal income, continuous lawful residence, and pass medical exams. Entrepreneurs, priority-sector investors, and long-term elderly residents may also qualify.

Outsourcing Regulations:
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has approved new rules for outsourcing expatriate workers between companies. Using the Ajeer digital platform, businesses can share workers while the primary employer retains supervisory responsibility. The regulations introduce formal labor secondment permits to clarify contractual relationships and promote transparency in workforce management.

Together, these reforms aim to streamline administration, regulate mobility, and support Saudi Arabia’s strategic economic sectors.
Tags: Saudi Arabia

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