RIYADH – Saudi Arabia has rolled out a revised residency permit system for domestic workers, offering employers greater flexibility by allowing iqama issuance and renewals in shorter, customizable periods instead of only annual or two-year terms.
The initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Interior through the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) in coordination with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Musaned platform, expands the range of renewal options available on the Absher digital portal.
Under the updated policy, employers can now choose permit durations of three months or any three-month increment up to 24 months. This replaces the previous system, which generally required permits to be renewed for one or two years.
Officials said the revised framework also changes the fee structure, enabling employers to pay residency charges based only on the selected validity period. Those opting for shorter permits will be able to make payments in quarterly installments rather than paying the full amount upfront.
Authorities said the measure is designed to ease financial planning for employers while supporting the Kingdom’s broader drive to modernize public services, strengthen digital government platforms and make residency procedures more efficient and accessible for both employers and domestic workers.
