Issuance of a work permit

The Work Permit Issuance Service on the Qiwa platform, run by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, enables employers to quickly and efficiently issue work permits for non-Saudi workers using an integrated digital system. This service is a critical step to register foreign workers and obtain official work authorization in compliance with Saudi labor laws, required prior to residency issuance.

The process involves employer login, navigating to the work permits section, selecting new permit issuance, entering worker details (personal info, contract type, salary, job duration), and electronically submitting the application. Permit data is validated and linked with the worker’s record in the General Organization for Social Insurance. The platform allows tracking permit status and sends alerts for renewals.

The service complies with the Saudization and labor segment system, prohibits issuance if the employer is in the red zone, and applies government fees (typically SAR 100 per permit). It supports various permit types including fixed, indefinite, part-time, and remote work contracts, ensuring both employer and employee legal protection, reducing paperwork and office visits.

Importance

Simplifies and expedites foreign labor permit issuance.
Ensures compliance with labor and Saudization regulations.
Supports workforce monitoring and formal labor system organization.
Enhances transparency and reduces labor violations.
Advances Saudi Arabia’s digital transition in workforce management.

Challenges

Accurate and up-to-date employer and employee data critical to process success.
Managing peak demand for application processing.
Staying current with labor law changes and system updates.
Employer awareness and compliance with permit issuance policies.