Saudi Arabia Rolls out New Work Visa without Sponsor Requirement

Saudi Arabia has launched a new sponsor-free work visa for foreign citizens, effective from May 26, 2025. 

The latest decision is part of a string of changes the Kingdom has been implementing as part of Vision 2030 to attract global talent and boost the labour market. 

In 2019, the Saudi Premium Residency was introduced, with updates in 2024 that facilitated the application. Saudi Arabia also launched a foreign investment visa, which permits foreign nationals to start a private business under their own name. 

The Ministry of Human Resources introduced a freelance visa which seeks to draw technology, design, and marketing professionals to work in Saudi.  

Traditionally, foreigners required a sponsor to work in Saudi Arabia.

Eliminating the need for a sponsor has increased freedom and flexibility for foreign nationals working in the kingdom while giving them access to more job opportunities. Under the new system, they will no longer need to transfer sponsorship when they change jobs. 

There are several advantages to the new work visa, including being able to start new private projects, hold permanent or long-term residency, and access banking and investment facilities. Family members of work visa holders under the new scheme can also live in Saudi Arabia and have the same rights and privileges. 

To qualify for this new work visa, foreign nationals have to meet a list of stringent criteria, including having a high, stable monthly income of at least 10,000 SAR, holding a degree from a recognized university, and having at least five years of practical experience for certain visa types.

Applications can be completed online by selecting the appropriate visa type, uploading the necessary documents, and paying the fees. Applicants can expect to wait between two weeks to a month to receive the visa decision. 

The latest change reflects Saudi Arabia’s move towards creating an investor-friendly climate by providing government facilities to support investment in real estate, renewable energy, tourism, education, and technology. 

Despite the plethora of benefits of the new work visa, applicants have to overcome limitations such as the high visa fees and specific skill and qualification requirements.