Riyadh: Starting August 3, 2025, all new foreign workers entering Saudi Arabia will be classified into one of three skill categories: high-skilled, skilled, and basic, under a newly implemented visa framework. The system, which already came into effect for existing workers on July 5, is part of the Kingdom’s broader labour market reforms.

Previously, work permits were issued based on job titles alone, often failing to reflect actual qualifications or job functions. The new classification aims to eliminate such mismatches and improve transparency for both employers and job seekers.

High-Skilled: Includes doctors, engineers, and IT specialists. Entry is based on a points system evaluating education, experience, and salary.

Skilled: Covers technicians, supervisors, and administrative staff with relevant experience and qualifications.

Basic: Reserved for manual labour and support roles, with an age limit of 60 years.

Job seekers will now benefit from a clearer understanding of their eligibility, while companies must align job titles, roles, and qualifications accordingly in the Qiwa platform, a government-run labour management system.

Employers are required to:

Classify all new and current foreign workers accurately.

Update job roles and contracts in compliance with the new system.

Correct any mismatches or face possible restrictions on future hiring.

Verification programs such as Qualification Verification and Skills Verification will become key tools in securing better job classifications. For professionals with strong academic or technical backgrounds, this may unlock access to higher-tier roles with better pay and career growth.

Although the Saudi government has yet to announce benefits tied to each skill level, such as visa processing time or cost differences, the reform sets the stage for a more merit-based and competitive employment landscape.