Employer Responsibilities for Expat Workers in Saudi Arabia – As per Article 40 of the Saudi Labor Law
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The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia clarified that employers are responsible for certain expenses for expat (non-Saudi) workers. According to Article 40 of the Saudi Labor Law, the employer must cover:
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Recruitment fees for bringing the expat worker to Saudi Arabia.
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Fees for issuing the Iqama (residence permit) and work permit.
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Fees for renewing the Iqama and work permit, including any fines for delays.
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Fees for changing the Iqama profession.
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Exit and re-entry visa fees.
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Return flight ticket for the worker to go back to their home country after the contract ends.
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Notes:
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If a worker chooses to leave or cannot work without a valid reason, they are responsible for their own expenses.
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If a worker wants to transfer to another employer, the new employer pays the job transfer fees.
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In case of a worker’s death, the employer covers the cost of preparing and transporting the body back home, unless the worker is buried in Saudi Arabia with family consent. The General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) may exempt the employer from this responsibility.
