Work Visa & Iqama Compliance Policy
In today's complex, regulated work environment, the work visa & iqama compliance policy highlights commitment to fully adhering to all regulations regarding residencies and visas. It covers aspects, such as registration with relevant government systems concerning residencies and visas and obtaining professional licenses.
Created by
Naif O. Alawbathani
|
Human Resources Adviser
Written by HR expertsFully customizableSaudi labor law ComplaintShare the calculator with an HR college
What’s included in the work visa & iqama compliance policy?
The work visa & iqama compliance policy outlines the crucial aspects of managing non-Saudi employees' Iqama, work permits, and professional licenses. This ensures compliance with regulations set by the Labor Law and instructions from authorities like Jawazat (Passports Department), Muqeem (Residency Portal), and Social Insurance.
The policy clarifies which employees must be registered in these systems, detailing the meticulous follow-up procedures required.
Recognizing the employee's shared responsibility for compliance, the policy addresses their role in passport renewal and any related financial penalties.
Furthermore, the policy covers professional licenses, emphasizing the importance of obtaining and renewing them for required professions. It also notes the necessity for the job title to match the employee's actual tasks, alongside the company's responsibility for all recruitment fees.
Work Visa & Iqama Compliance Policy - Table of contents
1. Registration in Muqeem & Systems
2. Renewals Management
3. Passport Management & Penalties
4. Professional Licensure & Bodies
5. Job Title Correction (Profession Change)
6. Responsibility for Fees
Why do you need a work visa & iqama compliance policy?
Providing guidance on complying with necessary regulations..
Helping avoid penalties and fines that may result from non-compliance.
Maintaining a good reputation among official bodies, supporting business sustainability.
Facilitating future procedures such as issuing new visas or renewing current ones.
How do you use the model?
Download the template and review the content.
Customize it with the name, logo and size and nature of your company's workforce.
Share it with Jisr HRMS, Hr department, department heads, and company management.
Ensure compliance by getting work visa & iqama compliance policy reviewed by a legal/HR expert.
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FAQ
What is the new work visa policy in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has introduced a Temporary Work Visa to facilitate short-term employment for non-Saudis. This visa is designed for contracts of three months or less and allows individuals to work in the Kingdom without needing a full work permit or residency (Iqama).
Key features of this visa include:
- Validity: It is valid for one year from its issuance date.
- Duration: The initial three-month period can be extended once for an additional three months via the Ministry of Interior.
- Employer Requirements: To issue these visas, establishments must have a "medium green" Nitaqat level or higher.
How Can Compliance with Iqama, Visa, and Professional Licensing Regulations Be Ensured?
To guarantee a company's ongoing compliance with all regulations concerning iqamas, visas, and professional licenses, focus on these key strategies:
- Analyze current legislation to assess the company's adherence level.
- Establish a comprehensive work visa & iqama compliance policy to serve as a guiding framework.
- Designate a dedicated team to oversee and monitor compliance continuously.
- Organize training programs for employees on their compliance responsibilities.
- Conduct regular follow-ups and audits to ensure ongoing adherence, especially with new legislation.
- Involve senior management in periodic compliance reviews.
- Engage legal expertise to evaluate and enhance compliance efforts.
What is the new policy of Saudi Arabia Iqama?
Saudi Arabia's new Iqama policy, as per the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), now allows for the renewal of resident dependents' Iqamas even if they are outside the Kingdom. Their physical presence in Saudi Arabia is no longer required for renewal. This service can be conveniently completed through the Ministry of Interior's "Absher" electronic platform and the "Muqeem" portal, upon payment of the relevant service fees.
What are the requirements for a work visa in Saudi Arabia?
To issue permanent work visas in Saudi Arabia, establishments must meet several requirements:
- The establishment must be existing and have a valid commercial registration (unless exempt).
- All employees within the establishment group must possess valid work permits.
- The establishment's Nitaqat level (Saudization compliance) must be Medium Green or higher.
- There should be no existing remarks from the Wage Protection System, indicating compliance with salary payments.
- The establishment must commit to validating contracts to a specified percentage.
What are the conditions for Iqama?
To obtain an Iqama (resident identity) for a worker in Saudi Arabia, which effectively serves as a work visa, several requirements must be met by the worker:
- The worker must already be present within Saudi Arabia.
- All issuance fees for the resident identity, along with any delay penalties or traffic violations, must be paid.
- Fingerprints and images of the worker (and accompanying family) must be enrolled.
- The worker must successfully complete and pass a medical examination at an accredited center.
- Health insurance must be provided for the worker and any accompanying family members.
- The worker's passport must be valid.
- A work permit may be required for specific job roles.