In a significant development, Saudi Arabia has introduced a new regulation requiring holders of premium residency to obtain dedicated work permits before engaging in any form of employment. This move aims to formalize the employment status of expatriates benefiting from the premium residency scheme, ensuring compliance with labor laws and enhancing workforce regulation.
The premium residency program, launched to attract skilled foreign professionals and investors by offering long-term residency without the need for a sponsor, now faces this additional procedural requirement. This change reflects the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to balance economic diversification with labor market controls amid Vision 2030 reforms.
Meanwhile, the introduction of dedicated work permits for premium residency holders is expected to impact the expatriate community by imposing stricter employment oversight. It also signals Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regulating foreign labor participation more rigorously, potentially influencing the attractiveness of the premium residency status for foreign workers and investors alike.
