Latest news with #expatriateworkers
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia unveils new skill-based system for expatriate work permits
RIYADH — Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi has issued a decision classifying the work permits of expatriate workers into three main skill categories: high-skill, skilled, and basic. The classification of existing work permits and technical system upgrades began on June 18 for expatriates currently working in the Saudi labor market. The classification would take effect for incoming expatriate workers as of July 1. The ministry has issued a guidance manual outlining all the details of the decision, which is available on its official website. This decision is part of the ministry's broader efforts to foster a more attractive and efficient labor market, develop human capital, and enhance the business environment, contributing to achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program. The measure aims to enhance worker performance, attract global talent to transfer expertise and experience to the Saudi labor market, improve operational efficiency, benefit from international experience, and build an environment that supports innovation and the development of business models. The decision will improve verification mechanisms and enable better management of the skill-level distribution of expatriate workers in the labor market by ensuring that workers possess the required skills and qualifications for their job roles, in line with best international practices. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Zawya
Exit permits operational at Kuwait Airport with minimal delays
KUWAIT CITY - The first day of enforcing the new exit permit system for private sector expatriate workers under Article 18 was executed with remarkable efficiency, as travelers passed through Kuwait International Airport without major disruptions. Interior Ministry personnel, particularly those at passport control, managed the new procedures with precision, easing initial public concerns about potential delays or complications. Travelers expressed satisfaction with the swift processing, many describing their experience as 'smooth and stress-free.' Smiles, praise, and a sense of relief marked the day's atmosphere. According to security sources, the Passport Security Department had conducted extensive preparations in anticipation of the rollout. Personnel were trained to manage all scenarios, including cases where travelers were unfamiliar with the new electronic system. Thanks to this foresight, the exit process took only moments once employer approval was confirmed. At Terminal 1 at Kuwait International Airport observed fluid an organized movement was observed at the immigration counters. In most cases, passport stamping took less than a minute after confirming the absence of any travel restrictions and verifying the electronic exit permit. Several passengers confirmed that although they brought printed copies of their exit permit forms, passport officers did not require them, as the data was already integrated into the electronic system. Travelers praised the professionalism of passport staff and noted that the new procedure had not restricted their freedom but rather protected the rights of both employees and employers. Seamless Digital Integration Colonel Yousef Al-Hawlan, Head of the Private Aviation Ports Department, explained that an electronic link was established between the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) and the Ports Administration. This digital connection allows permits to appear automatically in the system, eliminating the need for physical paperwork. An emergency task force is also on standby to manage any technical issues. Al-Hawlan emphasized that while many residents still arrive at passport control with printed forms, officers typically confirm the approval using personal data entered into the system. In cases where the system doesn't reflect the permit, the barcode on the applicant's phone is scanned for confirmation. He noted that the exit permit process takes just minutes once employer approval is granted and remains valid for seven days. On launch day, around 20,000 travelers were processed—most of them expatriate workers. The new requirement excludes dependents (wives and children under family residency) and domestic workers under Article 20. Airport Coordination and Traveler Support To avoid delays and congestion, authorities coordinated with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and airlines to ensure that boarding passes are only issued once a valid departure permit is confirmed. This move aims to prevent last-minute issues at passport control and protect travelers from losing flights or tickets. Al-Hawlan acknowledged that some residents, particularly those unfamiliar with digital tools, face difficulties using the new system. In such cases, the employer can issue the permit via the Sahel or Ashal applications. Travelers can then proceed directly to the airport, where their data is already logged into the system. Exit Permit Stats and System Performance The Public Authority for Manpower confirmed strong adoption of the new system: 35,000 exit permits have been issued to private sector workers so far. 22,000 applications were received between June 12 and 29. 13,000 applications were submitted on June 30 alone. Only one complaint regarding the system was registered, which has since been resolved. Officials view the launch as a success, marking a key step in Kuwait's efforts to enhance labor market governance and streamline travel procedures for expatriates through digital transformation.
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
No travelling out of Kuwait without an exit permit: New rule for expats
KUWAIT CITY: In a significant regulatory development, expatriate workers in the private sector will soon be required to obtain an official exit permit from their registered employers before traveling abroad. This new measure, set to take effect early next month, is part of efforts to strengthen oversight of expatriate mobility while safeguarding the rights of both workers and employers. The decision was formalized through a ministerial circular issued by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef. The directive requires all expatriate workers to obtain an exit permit before leaving the country. The Public Authority for Manpower confirmed that the implementation of this regulation will require exit permits to include the worker's personal details, travel date, and mode of transportation. The completed permit must be submitted electronically through a designated platform (SAHEL APP or the PUBLIC AUTHORITY OF MANPOWER WEBSITE) to streamline processing and maintain accuracy. Authorities emphasized that the new system is designed to ensure that departures are conducted legally, protect all parties involved, and reduce incidents of workers leaving without proper notification. Both employers and expatriate workers are urged to strictly adhere to this requirement, as enforcement of the regulation is set to begin from 1st July. PURPOSE OF THE DECISION Ensure balance between employer and worker rights Enhance legal compliance and oversight Prevent illegal departures without employer notification Support labor market organization efforts WHO MUST COMPLY? All expatriate workers registered under the private sector Applies to workers intending to leave Kuwait temporarily or permanently HOW TO APPLY FOR THE EXIT PERMIT Submit request using CIVIL ID number Use the SAHEL APP or the PUBLIC AUTHORITY OF MANPOWER WEBSITE Request must be made BEFORE TRAVEL IMPORTANT NOTES The system automatically verifies employer-employee matching If inconsistencies are found, the case is referred to specialized departments IMPLEMENTATION STARTS: JULY 2025 Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Make sure to obtain an exit permit before leaving Kuwait
KUWAIT CITY: The Public Authority for Manpower announced on Thursday the launch of two new services through the Sahel digital platforms. The first service, available via the Sahel app, allows private sector workers under Article 18 to electronically submit exit permit requests to their employers. The second service, accessible through the Sahl Business app, enables employers to review and approve these requests. In a press release, the Authority stated that these services were introduced in line with a recent directive issued by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef. The directive mandates that, starting from the beginning of July, expatriate workers in the private sector must obtain exit permits from their employers before leaving the country. However, it is important to note that the Sahel app currently does not offer an English language option for users. An English version is expected to be released soon to ensure broader accessibility. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Khaleej Times
11-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Kuwait to require employer okay for foreign staff to leave
Kuwait is to require foreigners working in the private sector to obtain their employer's permission before leaving the country, authorities said Wednesday. First Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef issued a ministerial circular "requiring expatriate workers in the private sector to obtain an 'exit permit' from their registered employer before leaving the country," the Public Authority of Manpower said in a statement on its X account. The procedure, which can be done online, aims to "strengthen oversight of the movement of expatriate workers and ensure a balance between the workers' and employers' rights", the statement added. The new requirement will take effect from July 1. Saudi Arabia has similar restrictions on expatriate workers, who are required to obtain exit and re-entry permits from their sponsor to leave and re-enter the country. Starting in 2017, Qatar made a series of reforms to its employment regulations after being selected to host the 2022 World Cup. In 2018, Doha began allowing most foreigner workers to leave the country without their employer's authorisation, extending the new procedure to domestic staff two years later.
