New in Saudi Labor Law for Foreign Workers
The new regulation is a part of Saudi Arabia’s larger initiative to re-modernize its labor system and provide justice to foreign employees. With the new rules on Qiwa Saudi Arabia, workers are accorded a 60-day grace period once the official termination date of their contract.
Main Points of the New Grace Period Policy:
- The employers will not be able to stamp an employee absent as soon as the contract is canceled.
- Employees have 60 days to rejoin the same company, transfer Iqama to a new organization, or legally leave the country.
- This applies only if the Iqama is valid for the full period of 60 days.
This alteration is not simply a technical revision — it’s a people-focused policy that empowers Saudi Arabia’s foreign workers with meaningful choices.
How the Qiwa Platform Handles the Grace Period
It has been made easier, digital, and transparent through the Qiwa platform update.
Iqama Validity & Disconnection Conditions
- Employers may only submit a “work absence report” if the Iqama is valid for 60 days or more.
- There should be no active employment contract at the time of reporting.
- When Iqama is expiring within less than 60 days, the absence feature cannot be used by employers.
Options for the Workers Within the 60 Days
- Rejoin the same employer (if they can rehire)
- Transfer employment through Qiwa to a new employer
- Leave Saudi Arabia legally through appropriate immigration channels
The Qiwa Saudi Arabia platform ensures proper documentation and verification of all actions done digitally.
What Happens if No Action Is Taken
In case no action is taken within the 60-day period, the system will:
- Automatically classify the worker as “absent from work“
- Inform both the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) and Ministry of Interior
- Dewhite the worker from his former employer’s records
This may result in deportation, prosecution, and future employment ban in Saudi Arabia.
Advantages of the 60-Day Grace Period for Both Parties
This change is advantageous to both employers and workers:
To Foreign Workers:
- Provides sufficient time to look for new employment
- Offers room to transfer Iqama seamlessly
- Enables lawful exit without penalty
- Facilitates access to documents such as salary slips, employment certificates, etc., through Qiwa account
For Employers:
- Promotes a culture of due-process in dismissal
- Enhances employee-employer relationship
- Reduces legal conflicts and labor litigations
This is in line with Saudi Vision 2030’s vision to digitize labor laws and provide an open employment ecosystem.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Job in Saudi Arabia via Qiwa
- Log in to your Qiwa account
- Verify whether your Iqama is valid for more than 60 days
- Check for opportunities of job transfer
- Request a sponsorship transfer
- Wait for employer approval and ultimate confirmation
Your new employer will be updated once the transfer is completed in the system.
Final Thoughts: A Big Win for Foreign Workers in KSA
With this reform, Saudi Arabia permits to switch job with greater dignity, organization, and transparency. If you are a Pakistani laborer working in KSA, this policy provides you with time to plan, take action, and defend your status.
Be cautious, utilize the Qiwa platform, and always keep your Iqama up to date if you are between jobs.
