Saudisation (Nitaqat) and work permits
Introduction
Meeting Saudisation targets under Nitaqat, observing the professions reserved for Saudis, and managing work permits and residence for expatriate staff.
The Nitaqat programme classifies employers by the share of Saudi nationals in their workforce, and the band decides what the company can do: issue new visas, transfer staff, renew work permits. Separate localisation decisions reserve specific professions and activities for Saudis or set higher percentages for them.
Compliance depends on the details: how Saudi employees are counted, wage levels and social insurance registration, and the rules for part time and remote work. We review the company's position, plan hiring and restructuring to reach the required band, and advise on the consequences of falling short.
For expatriate staff we advise on work permits, residence, transfers between employers and the employer's obligations at the end of the relationship, working through the Qiwa and Muqeem platforms.
How we help
What the work covers
Position review
Reviewing the Nitaqat band, the workforce data and the localisation decisions that apply.
Localisation plan
Hiring, training and restructuring plans to reach and keep the target band.
Work permits
Work permits, residence and transfers for expatriate employees.
Violations
Responding to inspections, violations and fines from the ministry.
Contact