Saudi Arabia to Classify Work Permits by Skill – 2025 Breakdown
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has announced the official implementation of a skill-based classification system for expatriate work permits, aimed at regulating the labor market, enhancing workforce performance, and attracting global talent to the Kingdom.
Objective of the New Classification System
- Regulate the labor market efficiently
- Develop local and expatriate human competencies
- Enhance worker performance across industries
- Attract global talent with advanced skills
- Promote innovation and future investment
- Align with the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations (SSCO)
- Develop verification mechanisms for workforce classification
Classification Criteria for Work Permits
The work permits will be classified based on clear eligibility requirements, including:
- ✔️ Educational Qualifications
- ✔️ Professional Experience
- ✔️ Certified Professional Skills
- ✔️ Wage and Salary Levels
- ✔️ Age of the Worker
These factors will determine an expatriate worker’s classification into one of the three skill categories.
Skill Categories for Expatriate Workers
- High-Skilled: Workers with advanced academic qualifications, specialized expertise, and leadership roles.
- Skilled: Technical professionals with certified skills and moderate levels of experience.
- Basic: General laborers with limited technical or academic qualifications.
This classification aims to enhance the distribution and quality of skills within the Kingdom’s workforce.
Implementation Timeline
- ➡️ Phase 1: Reclassification of the current expatriate labor force starting from July 6, 2025.
- ➡️ Phase 2: Classification of new workers entering Saudi Arabia effective August 3, 2025.
All classifications will be automated through the Qiwa platform. Establishments can view worker classifications via their Qiwa account. Workers also have the option to request a re-evaluation if they believe their skill level is inaccurately recorded, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Key Benefits of the New Work Permit Classification
- ✅ Enhances overall workforce competency and job market standards
- ✅ Facilitates the transfer of global expertise to Saudi Arabia
- ✅ Encourages innovation and investment by attracting high-level talent
- ✅ Improves compliance with Saudi occupational classification standards (SSCO)
- ✅ Builds a more competitive and future-ready labor environment
Final Thoughts
With this new skill-based classification system, Saudi Arabia is taking a significant step toward developing a knowledge-driven, sustainable economy. By focusing on the quality and competency of its workforce, the Kingdom aims to align with international best practices while supporting Vision 2030 goals. Expatriates, employers, and recruitment agencies are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for the upcoming changes to ensure compliance and maximize opportunities in the evolving labor market.
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