No Recognition for Unregistered Contracts: New Condition for Renewing Work Permits for Non-Saudis

In a new step within the efforts to regulate the rental market and enhance integration between government entities, the Saudi Council of Ministers has issued a decision requiring the registration of lease agreements on the "Ejar" network as one of the essential requirements for renewing work permits for non-Saudis.

The decision aims to regulate the contractual relationship between rental parties and ensure the rights of all, especially in light of the significant expansion of properties available for rent in Saudi Arabia, and the Kingdom's keenness to enhance transparency and stability in this vital sector.

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The past period witnessed an enhancement of the "Ejar" platform's capabilities, with the launch of a quick registration feature for lease agreements, which allows the process to be completed in just four steps and within eight minutes, even for those who do not have an Absher account, aiming to facilitate use and expand its scope of benefit.

It is worth noting that the electronic linkage between "Ejar" and work permit renewals began gradual implementation in September 2018, following a period of awareness and preparation, as part of improving integration between relevant authorities.

This step comes in the context of supporting digital transformation in government services and enhancing oversight of the rental market, thereby ensuring the protection of the rights of expatriates, investors, and workers in the real estate sector.

Through this measure, the Kingdom seeks to oblige residents to electronically document their lease agreements, which contributes to raising the level of transparency, reducing real estate disputes, and achieving a more stable and fair environment for all concerned parties.

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Method for Issuing and Renewing Work Permits in Saudi Arabia

If you are an employer or a representative of an establishment in Saudi Arabia and need to issue or renew work permits for non-Saudis, you can easily complete this process electronically through the official services platform. Here are the steps to follow:

• Log in to the official electronic services website.
• Select the "Issue Work Permit" service from the menu.
• Add the data of the expatriate workers for whom permits need to be issued or renewed.
• Fill out the electronic form with all required data.
• Click the "Submit" button after ensuring the accuracy of the information.
• A message will appear containing the amount of the due fees.
• Receive the payment number from the system; the request status will change to "Pending Payment."
• Pay the required amount using the payment number.
• The system will transfer the request to the National Information Center.
• The permit status will be updated within an hour after payment is completed, and the permit will become valid.

Can a Work Permit be Canceled After Issuance or Renewal?

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has clarified that a work permit for expatriate workers cannot be canceled after its issuance or renewal, as the permit remains valid until its specified expiry date.