JEDDAH: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced an extension for seasonal work visas.
The Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced major updates regarding temporary work visas or seasonal work visas for Hajj and Umrah services.
Allowing individuals to stay for an initial period of 90 days, with the option to extend for an additional 90 days.
Before that, the temporary work visa permitted an individual to stay for up to 90 days in the Kingdom but the latest change in regulations allows the seasons visa holders to extend their stay for an additional 90 days.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, this change, part of broader reforms approved by the Saudi Cabinet, aims to enhance flexibility for the private sector and improve alignment between visa policies and labour market demands.
The temporary work visa will now have a longer period, starting from Shaban 15 to the end of Muharram. This update also aims at facilitating the companies operate during the Umrah season so they can easily hire temporary workers for services.
The ministry has also announced measures to ensure transparency in the visa process. The company will be required to submit a signed employment contract and medical insurance of workers before the visa is issued for the temporary workers.
The strict action will be taken against the companies involved in selling temporary work visas as they may face fines of 50,000 Riyals and could be added to blacklist for five years. The government can also impose both penalties on the companies over violations of rules, The ministry warned.
