Saudi Arabia launches new visa policy for visitors

Riyadh: In a move aimed at streamlining travel procedures and ensuring compliance with international regulations, the Saudi government has introduced a new mandate requiring travelers to possess passports valid for at least six months when entering the kingdom.

The announcement, made by Saawi Aviation and implemented in collaboration with all airlines, signifies a proactive measure to enhance border security and facilitate smoother travel experiences for visitors to Saudi Arabia. Effective immediately, passengers with passports valid for less than six months will be denied boarding, as per the directive issued to travel agencies.

This decision applies to travelers on all types of visas, reinforcing the Saudi government’s commitment to upholding stringent entry requirements in line with global standards.

Moreover, in a separate development aimed at modernizing the labor market and ensuring fair employment practices, Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations governing the issuance of work visas for foreign domestic workers.

Under these revamped rules, the Ministry of Human Resources has raised the eligibility criteria for obtaining visas, particularly focusing on individuals aged 24 and above. This strategic initiative aims to foster a more mature and responsible workforce within the domestic sector, promoting stability and professionalism in household employment.

Importantly, the revised regulations prioritize the financial capacity of employers, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being and rights of domestic workers. Eligible applicants include Saudi citizens, Gulf nationals, foreign wives of Saudi men and their mothers, as well as holders of Saudi premium residency permits.

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Central to this transformative shift is the Musaned platform, a state-of-the-art digital ecosystem developed by the Ministry of Human Resources. This comprehensive platform serves as a hub for employers and domestic workers, offering a wide range of services including visa application processes, recruitment requests, and employment relationship management.

Furthermore, the Musaned platform facilitates secure and efficient wage transfers through digital channels such as STC Pay and Urpay apps, ensuring timely and transparent payment mechanisms for domestic workers.

These progressive initiatives underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering a secure, transparent, and inclusive environment for travelers and domestic workers alike, aligning with the kingdom’s broader vision for sustainable development and economic diversification.