Saudi HR Ministry Extends Work Permit Deadline, Relief for Indian and Expatriate Workers

Jeddah: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced an extension of the deadline to correct the work permit status of expatriate workers in the Kingdom. The new deadline is set for the end of this year, bringing relief to thousands of workers, including Indians, who have been struggling with expired or missing work permits.

As per the Ministry’s direction, employers must use this extended grace period to issue or renew outstanding work permits through Qiwa platform. Failure to rectify these violations before the deadline will trigger legal action and regulatory penalties.

Many expatriate workers across Saudi Arabia have faced difficulties with their employment documentation. Some have work permits that expired more than 12 months ago. Others have been working for more than 6 months without getting a work permit at all. These workers have been stuck in a difficult situation, unable to properly regularize their employment status.

The ministry extension is a great relief for thousands of Indian expatriates and other foreign workers who have been worried about their job security and legal status.

This initiative is part of the Ministry’s broader effort to clean up the labour market in the Kingdom. The ministry wants to ensure that all workers have proper legal protection under valid work contracts and that all employers follow the rules correctly. By giving workers and employers extra time, the ministry is helping both sides get their documentation in order and raising compliance levels in the labour market.