Starting a job in Saudi Arabia is about to feel different and smarter. From July 1, 2025, a new system will decide how expats are hired, based on skills, not just job titles. If you’re planning to work in the Kingdom or are already here, this change matters. It’s big, clear, and designed to make sure the right people land the right roles, especially in mega-projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, Diriyah, and the Red Sea.
Here’s your complete guide to what’s changing, how Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permits work, and what steps employers and expat workers should take next.
What’s Happening and Why It Matters
Saudi Arabia is introducing a skill-based work permit system that reshapes how international workers are hired and classified. New workers entering the Kingdom from July 1 will fall under this structure. For those already in Saudi Arabia, reclassification started back on June 18.
This change aligns with Vision 2030, aiming to match skilled global talent with fast-moving projects across tourism, engineering, and construction. From day one, the goal has been clear: create a smoother, smarter hiring process that benefits both professionals and the country’s economic plans.
The New Work Permit Categories
Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permit classifies workers into three clear levels. Each one is defined by skill, experience, wage, and job type. These are assessed digitally through the Qiwa platform and follow Saudi Arabia’s national occupation classification system, SSCO.
High-Skill
This category is for professionals with advanced qualifications, strong experience, and top salaries. It includes managers, specialists, engineers, and similar roles. Think of it as the fast lane for global talent.
To qualify, you’ll need:
- Experience and degrees aligned with SSCO’s top groups
- A salary that matches your profession’s requirement
- Completion of a professional accreditation program
It’s flexible, too. For example, long-term experience can help if you don’t have the exact degree.
Skilled
This level includes mid-tier professions like clerical workers, sales professionals, craft workers, and machine operators. You still need to meet wage standards and complete any required professional programs.
If you’re in a higher profession group but don’t meet the wage cutoff, you may be placed here.
Basic
The Basic category includes general labor and elementary occupations. There’s an age limit, typically 60, and wage thresholds are lower. Even here, workers need to meet basic professional criteria where applicable.
Key Dates You Should Remember
The rollout is happening in two phases:
- June 18, 2025: Existing expats began reclassification
- July 1, 2025: The new system applies to all new foreign workers
- August 3, 2025: Every new hire must be classified under this system
Employers and employees need to be ready before these dates. The Qiwa platform is your go-to space for updates, submissions, and tracking.
What Employers Should Do Right Now
If you’re an employer, it’s time to take stock. Begin with reviewing your current foreign workforce and update their classifications on Qiwa.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Match roles with SSCO categories
- Make sure salaries meet the right thresholds
- Help employees complete needed accreditations
- Keep contracts and job titles aligned with actual duties
Getting this right early means you’ll stay compliant and prepared to hire faster in the future.
What Expat Workers Should Focus On
If you’re working in Saudi Arabia or plan to, your next move should be thoughtful.
Start with this:
- Check where your job fits in SSCO
- Gather proof of your qualifications and work history
- Complete any professional tests needed
- If you think you’re placed too low, you can ask for a reassessment on Qiwa
A guidance manual is already online through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. It walks you through each step and helps you figure out what category fits you best.
Why It All Fits Into the Bigger Picture
This isn’t a one-off policy. It’s part of a bigger wave of changes in how Saudi Arabia wants to shape its workforce.
You’ve probably heard of the Professional Verification Program. It checks foreign qualifications and now covers workers from over 128 countries. This new permit system builds on that. It helps ensure the people coming into Saudi Arabia are bringing something valuable. Skills that support long-term goals.
It also works alongside Saudization. This effort creates space for Saudi nationals in industries like healthcare, engineering, and accounting. By clearly classifying foreign roles, it becomes easier to see which areas need local talent and where international experience can support the Kingdom’s growth.
Where It’s Going from Here
Saudi Arabia is racing toward its 2030 goals. With record employment rates and growing sectors across tourism, tech, and construction, the need for skilled workers keeps rising. But so does the need to get hiring right.
This new skill-based system gives clarity. The Saudi skill-based work permit helps the right people land the right jobs. It gives professionals a fair shot at progressing and gives companies a framework to grow smartly.
Whether you’re an employer or a job seeker, this change is about opportunity. And if you prepare now, you’ll be ready to make the most of what’s ahead.
FAQs
What is the new skill-based work permit system in Saudi Arabia?
It’s a classification system for foreign workers based on skills, experience, age, and wages, launched to support Vision 2030 and major projects.
Who needs to follow the new system?
All new expat workers entering Saudi after July 1, 2025, and all current expats who began reclassification on June 18, 2025.
How do I know which skill category I fall under?
You can use the Qiwa platform to view your classification and appeal if needed. Your job title, salary, and qualifications determine your category.
Can my employer upgrade my classification?
Yes, if your qualifications, experience, and wages meet higher category standards. Employers can submit reassessments on Qiwa.
What happens if a company doesn’t comply?
Employers that fail to classify employees correctly could face delays or restrictions in future hiring.
Compliance is monitored through Qiwa.
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