Published on: July 2025
Are you planning to work in Saudi Arabia? Major changes are here!
Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permit system—launched July 2025—directly impacts how every expat worker is classified, recruited, and retained. Whether you’re an engineer, healthcare worker, manager, or skilled technician, this guide covers all you need for a successful Saudi career.
What is the Saudi Skill-Based Work Permit (2025 Update)?
Saudi Arabia has replaced the old, one-size-fits-all work visa with a dynamic, skill-based work permit system.
All expat workers are now classified into three categories: High-Skill, Skilled, and Basic.
This initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on attracting the world’s best talent and matching workers to mega-project needs.
Who Needs a Saudi Skill-Based Work Permit?
- All new foreign workers (starting July 2025)
- Current expats (reclassification ongoing since June 18, 2025)
- All industries: Construction, engineering, healthcare, IT, hospitality, project management, education, more
Trending Query:
“Who is affected by Saudi skill-based work permit changes in 2025?”
Skill-Based Permit Categories in Saudi Arabia
1. High-Skill Permit:
- For candidates with advanced degrees, technical certifications, and extensive experience
- Higher salary brackets and more career opportunities
2. Skilled Permit:
- For diploma holders, technicians, experienced supervisors, mid-level professionals
3. Basic Permit:
- For entry-level, support, or non-specialized roles
AI Keyword Variations:
Saudi work visa levels, Saudi job categories 2025, skill-based expat permit, high-skill Saudi jobs, expat permit requirements Saudi Arabia
How to Qualify for a High-Skill Saudi Work Permit (2025)?
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree (engineering, IT, healthcare, management, finance, etc.)
- Minimum years of relevant experience (varies by sector)
- Higher salary offer (proves skill level)
- Technical certificates or professional licenses (if required by your role)
- Age and language (younger candidates and English/Arabic speakers preferred in some sectors)
Trending Query:
“How to get a high-skill work permit in Saudi Arabia?”
Required Documents for Saudi Skill-Based Work Permit
- Updated CV/resume
- Degree and diploma certificates (attested/translated)
- Work experience letters
- Professional license or certificate (if applicable)
- Passport and photos
- Offer letter/contract from Saudi employer
- Medical test results
Application Process: Step-by-Step (2025)
- Job offer from a Saudi employer (with full job description)
- Employer submits application to the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources
- Skill-based category assigned (high-skill, skilled, or basic)
- Provide all supporting documents
- Permit issued with classification—used for visa stamping and entry
- For existing expats: Your status is reclassified upon renewal or change of job
Pro Tip:
Apply early and have all documents ready—delays often result from missing or untranslated certificates.
Benefits of the New Skill-Based Permit System
- Fast-track entry for high-demand skills (NEOM, Red Sea, Vision 2030 projects)
- Fairer job matching—better pay and job security for qualified workers
- Clear pathway for upskilling and permit upgrades
- Supports Saudi’s long-term economic goals
How to Upgrade Your Permit Status (Basic to Skilled/High-Skill)
- Gain additional certifications or training in your field
- Accumulate more relevant work experience
- Negotiate higher roles/salary with your employer
- Submit new supporting documents during renewal
Velynt Global’s Expert Tips for Indian & Asian Job Seekers
- Highlight your skills and certifications in both your CV and cover letter
- Use professional translation services for all documents
- Choose employers working on mega-projects or with recognized HR systems for smoother processing
- Don’t accept “basic” category unless unavoidable—aim for “skilled” or “high-skill” for maximum benefits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will existing Saudi expats lose jobs if they don’t qualify for skilled/high-skill?
A: You may be reclassified during permit renewal—improving your skills, getting more certifications, or negotiating with your employer can help you move up.
Q: Which professions get high-skill status most easily?
A: Engineering, healthcare, IT, project management, finance, senior technical trades.
Q: Can I move from “basic” to “skilled” after working for some years?
A: Yes, through upskilling, additional experience, and employer recommendation.
Q: Do family visas change with the new permit?
A: Family visa eligibility is still linked to your permit and salary category—higher categories have more benefits.
Get Support: Velynt Global Can Help You Succeed in Saudi Arabia
- Free permit eligibility check
- Personalized application support and document review
- Upgrade and renewal assistance
- Direct connections with Saudi recruiters/employers
Contact:
[email protected] | www.velyntglobal.com | +91 90748 07602
