In a critical update for employers in Saudi Arabia, the Qiwa platform, overseen by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, has set a firm deadline for rectifying the status of workers with expired work permits. As of June 30, employers are required to renew work permits or transfer employee services to avoid the automatic removal of workers from their establishment records starting July 1. This policy aims to streamline workforce management and ensure compliance with labor regulations. Qiwa has clarified that if a worker's permit has been expired for over three months, they will be removed from the employer's records, leaving the establishment liable for any financial obligations incurred during that period. Employers are urged to act swiftly to regularize the status of affected employees to mitigate potential legal repercussions and financial liabilities. An exception exists for cases where the work permit expiry differs from the residency permit expiry, provided the residency remains valid for at least 180 days. However, if the residency permit's validity is less than 180 days, both permits must be renewed to avoid complications.
Source: Saudi Gazette
