HRSD Ministry extends work permit rectification deadline to end-2026

Logo of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) extended the deadline for rectifying the status of expatriate workers whose work permits expired more than 12 months ago until the end of 2026.

The extension also covers expatriate workers who have not been issued a work permit for more than six months since joining their employer.

In its statement, the ministry said the extension aims to enhance compliance with labor regulations, protect the rights of both parties to employment contracts, as well as enable employers and workers to complete the required legal procedures within the specified period.

The extension is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to raise compliance levels in Saudi Arabia's labor market and provide employers and workers with additional time to regularize their status.

The decision follows the positive response from a segment of employers and workers, the statement said.

The ministry urged employers and workers to renew or obtain work permits before the deadline, warning that failure to rectify their status within the specified period will result in legal action.