Big Changes to the Visa System for Vision 2030 Success
A new system in Saudi Arabia now ranks expatriate work permits into three categories, high-skilled, skilled, and entry-level. This change aims to better organize the labor market and attract top talent to the Kingdom. The high-skilled category focuses on professionals with advanced qualifications and experience. The skilled group includes workers with technical skills or vocational training.
Entry-level is meant for jobs requiring minimal skills or formal education. Authorities believe this classification will help balance supply and demand in the workforce. It is also expected to support Vision 2030 by encouraging a more competitive and efficient labor sector. This reorganization forms a crucial part of the updated Visa System in Saudi Arabia.
Ahmed Al-Rajhi, the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, said the move is part of efforts to modernize the workforce and support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program. He explained that the new system will help create better job opportunities for citizens and improve the quality of employment for expatriates. This highlights the Kingdom’s focus on strengthening its Visa System for a future-ready workforce.
The plan is also expected to attract highly qualified professionals from around the world, boosting competitiveness in the labor market. This step reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to building a strong, diverse, and future-ready economy. Attracting global talent is a major objective of the Kingdom’s Visa System reforms.
From June 18, 2025, existing expatriates came under the new permit categories. Starting July 1, all new expat workers will also be placed in these groups. A detailed instruction manual is now available online through the ministry’s website for easy access. This guide explains how the system works and what each category means for workers and employers. It also provides steps on how companies can adjust to the changes smoothly. Employers and workers alike are encouraged to understand the updated Visa System for smooth compliance.
The ministry says the new system is designed to create a more organized and fair labor market. Employers are encouraged to review the guide to avoid any issues with compliance. Workers can also check the manual to understand how their job classification might affect their contracts and benefits. This move is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to modernize its workforce and strengthen the national economy. These efforts are a clear reflection of Saudi Arabia’s evolving Visa System.
The New Visa System: Changes for Workers and Business Owners
As part of its vision to strengthen the economy, the ministry announced a new plan to transform the workforce. This initiative focuses on improving employee performance, bringing in highly skilled professionals from other countries, and using their expertise to grow Saudi Arabia’s job market. It also aims to make businesses run more efficiently, place workers in roles that match their skills, and promote creativity through modern business practices. With these efforts, the Kingdom hopes to build a smarter, stronger, and more competitive labor market for the future.
To ensure only qualified foreign workers fill positions, the authorities have introduced a system that categorizes work permits by skill level. This approach is expected to tighten screening and improve job-role matching in the labor market. It will also help employers hire workers who meet specific skill requirements, reducing mismatches in the workplace. In the long term, this change aims to raise productivity and support the development of a stronger labor force in the Kingdom.
By adopting global best practices, this step is set to create a more lively, fair, and competitive work environment across Saudi Arabia. It will help attract skilled professionals from around the world and inspire local talent to grow. The move also promises to improve workplace standards, making jobs more rewarding and efficient. In the long run, this approach is expected to support economic growth and drive innovation across all sectors.
The initiative also reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to building a sustainable and future-ready labor market. Authorities believe this change will strengthen employer confidence and increase job satisfaction among workers. Overall, it is seen as a key driver for transforming Saudi Arabia’s workforce in line with Vision 2030. Ultimately, the Visa System changes are designed to support a thriving national economy.
For authentic news and the latest updates, stay connected with: DumdaarPoint.com
