Saudi Arabia backtracks to two year expat work visas

Saudi Arabia has backtracked on one-year private sector expat work visas, increasing their validity to two years.

The extension of a further year to the private sector Saudi work visa will be welcomed by expats who’d be happy to stay without having to undergo more bureaucracy after they’ve settled in to their jobs and communities. New arrivals will also benefit and will be more willing to make plans due to the extra security of a two-year visa. Not only will there be no extra charge for the extra year, the extension will also apply to existing visas and old visas can be cancelled and reapplied for if necessary, providing the requirements are still valid.

Last year’s shock expat work visa reduction from two to one year disturbed a good number of expat professionals who’d committed themselves to staying in Saudi and made financial and accommodation arrangements as a result. The reduction didn’t apply to those working in government agencies, but it made relocation to the kingdom less attractive for a good number of experienced professionals. According to an Arabic tweet shared by the ministry’s official account, the surprise extension was prompted by a move to reduce obstacles to private sector development and ease business processes.

Saudi economist Safar Ayad told the media the decision was intended to be a catalyst for increasing productivity, although it may well be attacked by Saudi job-seekers and Saudi citizens. According to several media outlets, the Saudi economy is under threat as oil prices fail to stabilise, expats leave in droves, fewer professionals take on jobs and Vision 2030 seems to have either stalled or lost its way. It’s possible new expat blood may be attracted by the increased security of a two year visa, but Saudi’s former stability as an expat hub may not recover.