Saudi Arabia has introduced a new requirement for Premium Residency holders, who must now obtain a dedicated work permit through the Kingdom’s Qiwa digital labor platform for a fee of SR100.
The guidance was issued through Qiwa, the labor platform operated by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, and was reported by local media.
Under the updated rules, Premium Residency holders will need to secure the permit separately before working in the Kingdom. The platform also outlined several other labor-related procedures, including rules for business subscriptions, training contracts, resignation requests, and visa services.
Qiwa said training contracts for beneficiaries of the Tamheer program can now be documented electronically through the platform. However, it clarified that these contracts will not be counted toward Saudization targets and will also not be included in compliance requirements tied to employment contract documentation.
The platform added that service charges can be paid through multiple channels, including bank cards, SADAD payment numbers, and the Qiwa digital wallet.
It also issued fresh clarification on resignation rules, saying employees can withdraw a resignation request within seven days as long as the employer has not accepted it or postponed a decision during that period.
According to the platform, notice periods will continue to depend on the terms agreed in individual employment contracts, meaning they may differ from one worker to another.
Qiwa further clarified that visa information cannot be changed after issuance. If incorrect details are entered, the visa must first be cancelled and then reissued with the correct information.
The update is relevant for expatriates, including Pakistanis living and working in Saudi Arabia, especially those using Premium Residency routes or handling employment and visa matters through the Kingdom’s digital labor system.