Saudi Arabia Requires Work Permits for Premium Residency Holders Starting 2026 – Major Policy Shift Affects Investors & Expats

Saudi Arabia requires work permits for premium residency holders starting 2026.

Riyadh, 24 June 2026 — Saudi Arabia has introduced a significant change to its Premium Residency Program (PRP), requiring all Premium Residency holders to obtain a separate work permit before commencing any employment in the Kingdom.

This marks a departure from previous rules, under which Premium Residency holders were generally allowed to work without an additional work permit. The update aims to strengthen labour market regulation while maintaining the attractiveness of the PRP for high-net-worth investors and skilled professionals.

Key Changes for Premium Residency Holders

• New Requirement: A separate work permit is now mandatory before starting work.

• Application Platform: Work permits must be applied for through the Qiwa platform.

• Ongoing Obligations:

  • Employment contracts must still be registered on Qiwa.

  • Registration with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) remains required.

• Existing Holders: The situation remains unclear. It is not yet specified whether current Premium Residency holders must retroactively obtain work permits or what the compliance deadline will be. Employers are advised to monitor official guidance closely.

Implications for Employers and Premium Residency Holders

For Employers:

• Update onboarding and HR processes immediately to include work permit verification for Premium Residency holders.

• Ensure all foreign employees, regardless of residency type, are fully compliant with Qiwa and GOSI requirements.

• Anticipate potential delays during the transition period as procedures are clarified.

For Premium Residency Holders:

• Previously exempt from standard work permit processes, holders must now follow regular employment authorisation procedures.

• This change may affect investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals who combined PRP with local employment.

• Those planning to work should initiate the work permit application promptly through Qiwa.

Background on Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program

The Premium Residency Program offers long-term residency (typically 5 years, renewable) to high-net-worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents without requiring a local sponsor. The programme has been a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030 to attract global talent and capital.

The new work permit requirement appears to be part of broader efforts to maintain better oversight of the labour market while still offering attractive residency pathways.

Practical Advice

For Employers:

• Review all current employees holding Premium Residency and confirm their work permit status.

• Update contracts and internal policies to reflect the new requirement.

• Build additional lead time into hiring timelines for PRP holders.

For Individuals:

• Contact your employer or immigration advisor to clarify next steps.

• Prepare required documents for work permit application via Qiwa (employment contract, qualifications, etc.).

• Monitor official announcements from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) and the Premium Residency Program portal for updates on existing holders.

For the latest Saudi Arabia visa updates, Premium Residency Program changes, work permit requirements, and 2026 labour market news, visit: visasupdate.com/news