Saudi has changed the temporary work visa related to Hajj-Umrah
October 5, 20242 Mins Read
International Desk: Every year, hundreds of people from different countries go temporarily to Saudi Arabia to work during Hajj and Umrah season. These temporary workers are covered under a special type of visa service called temporary work visa.

The Saudi cabinet gave this information in a statement after the meeting in the capital Riyadh on Wednesday. According to the statement, the most important change is the visa extension. From the year 2025, the temporary work visa will be valid from February 14 to July 25 - that is, 5 months and 11 days. Earlier this period was three months.

In addition, those who will come to Saudi Arabia on this visa and take jobs in various organizations, institutions or companies, all the appointments must be in writing and the appointment letter must be signed by both the authorities and employees of the organization. This decision has been taken mainly for the protection of the workers.

The third decision taken by the cabinet is that the interested persons from foreign countries applying for temporary visas at the Saudi embassy or consulate must have medical insurance and attach a copy of the insurance document with the application.

If a temporary worker violates the law or misuses the visa, then the Saudi government can collect compensation from the worker according to the level of the crime. This decision was also taken in the cabinet meeting.

According to Saudi trade analysts, the country's economy has been growing day by day as the government led by Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman has focused on non-energy sectors for the past few years, but the economy has not been able to achieve the desired pace due to labor shortages. The new temporary work visa is expected to alleviate much of that crisis.

According to the Cabinet decision, the decisions of Tuesday's meeting will be effective from next 180 days.