Saudi Arabia Limits Work Visas Based on Company Age and Nitaqat Status

Saudi Arabia has introduced new rules for work visas, which will impact businesses and foreign workers. Under the revised framework, companies that have been operating for less than two years can only obtain a maximum of five work visas. Those with more than two years of experience can access up to 50 visas.

The changes aim to link foreign labour access to business development. Older, better-classified businesses will have more room to recruit internationally, while newer enterprises face tighter restrictions. This means prospective employees should check a company's operating history and Nitaqat classification before accepting a job offer.

The new rules are part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to promote Saudisation, which involves increasing the proportion of Saudi nationals in the workforce. The country has been implementing various measures to reduce reliance on foreign labour, including stricter regulations and incentives for local hiring.