Introduction to Work Permit Levy Changes

Saudi Arabia has introduced changes to the work permit levy that now affects domestic workers. For Saudi employers, this levy will be applied starting with the fifth domestic worker employed. Foreign employers will see this levy come into effect from the third domestic worker.

Small Business Exemptions Extended

The Saudi government has extended work permit fee exemptions for small businesses until March 2027. This extension applies to businesses with nine or fewer employees, including the owner. Specific exemptions are as follows:

- Small firms registered with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) and employing nine or fewer people can exempt two foreign employees from the levy.

- If the establishment includes at least one Saudi citizen (besides the employer), with both registered with GOSI, it can exempt up to four expatriate employees from the levy.

Essential Requirements for Iqama Issuance or Renewal in 2024

To successfully issue or renew your Iqama, the following conditions must be met:

1. Iqama Renewal Fee: The annual renewal cost is SAR 650, payable in quarterly installments.

2. Work Permit Fees (Maktab Amal Fees): Expatriate employees must pay a monthly fee of SAR 800, at least every three months.

3. Traffic Violations: All outstanding traffic fines must be cleared.

4. Valid Health Insurance: Both you and your family must have valid health insurance. Employers usually provide this, but check your employment agreement for details.

5. Dependent Fee (If Applicable): A fee of SAR 400 per month per dependent is required if sponsoring family members.

Consequences of Delayed Iqama Renewal

Failing to renew your Iqama on time can lead to severe consequences:

1. Financial Penalties:

  - A grace period of 3 days post-expiry allows for renewal without penalties.

  - Missing this period incurs a fine of SAR 500, doubling to SAR 1,000 for the second violation.

  - On the third violation, the expatriate will be deported, and the employer fined SAR 1,000.

2. Work Disruption and Legal Issues:

  - Expired Iqama can hinder your employment, service access, and ability to leave the country.

  - Legal complications may arise, affecting your residency and work status.

3. Impact on Employment and Residency:

  - Delayed renewal risks your legal residency status.

  - Employers may be reluctant to continue employment with an invalid Iqama.

4. Deportation Risk:

  - Repeated failure to renew leads to deportation and severe fines for employers.

5. Labor Market Regulation:

  - These penalties ensure timely renewal, protecting labor rights and maintaining a regulated labor market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Iqama Issuance and Renewal Fees?

- Annual Iqama Renewal: SAR 650, payable in quarterly installments.

- Work Permit Fees: SAR 2,400 for 3 months, up to SAR 9,600 for 12 months.

- Dependent Fees: SAR 400 per month per dependent.

- Health Insurance: Mandatory for issuance and renewal.

What Happens if I Do Not Renew My Iqama Within the Grace Period?

- Grace Period: Typically 90 days. Failure to renew can result in frozen bank accounts and inability to pay utilities until renewal proof is provided.

Can My Employer Cancel My Iqama?

- Employer Rights: Yes, employers can cancel your Iqama at any time.

This guide helps you navigate the latest regulations on work permits and Iqama requirements in Saudi Arabia, ensuring compliance and avoiding potential penalties.