The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia recently announced the approval of new regulations governing temporary work visas and temporary work for Hajj and Umrah services. These regulations aim to make the labor market in the Kingdom more attractive by providing high flexibility to the private sector to benefit from temporary visas according to their needs and labor market requirements. The amendments will come into effect 180 days after the approval by the Council of Ministers.
One of the key features of the new regulations is the extension of the grace period of the visa, which will now start from Shaban 15 and end at the conclusion of Muharram. Additionally, the name of the seasonal work visa has been changed to temporary work visa for Hajj and Umrah services. The updates were made to specifically address the needs of establishments operating during the Umrah season. The regulations now provide a detailed explanation of the work mechanisms between relevant authorities, as well as the time periods required to complete procedures, with the goal of ensuring governance of operations and increasing transparency.
Furthermore, the updated regulations also focus on the rights of both parties in the contractual relationship. Employers are now required to provide a copy of the employment contract signed by both parties, as well as proof of medical insurance as a basic requirement before granting the visa by Saudi diplomatic missions abroad. A chapter on penalties has been included in the regulations to prevent any violations or practices that may lead to the misuse of these visas. The requirement of endorsement when issuing a temporary work visa has been removed, and establishments now have greater flexibility with an extension of the period for temporary visas by an additional 90 days.
Overall, these new regulations are aimed at creating a more attractive labor market in Saudi Arabia by providing flexibility to the private sector and addressing the needs of establishments operating during the Umrah season. By ensuring governance of operations, raising transparency levels, and protecting the rights of both parties in the contractual relationship, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development hopes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services.
