Saudi Arabia has warned establishments against employing expatriates who violate the Kingdom’s residency and labor regulations, with responsible managers potentially facing up to one year in prison.
According to a warning from the Saudi Ministry of Interior, penalties can apply to establishments and managers involved in employing or facilitating work for individuals who are violating residency or labor rules.
Managers Could Face Up to One Year in Jail
A responsible manager may face imprisonment for up to one year if an establishment is found employing expatriates in violation of Saudi regulations.
The warning applies to cases where establishments:
- Employ expatriates who violate residency or labor regulations
- Allow their workers to work for their own account
- Allow workers to work for other employers
- Employ workers who are officially registered under another employer
If the responsible manager is an expatriate, the penalties may also include deportation from Saudi Arabia.
Establishments Could Be Fined Up to SAR 100,000
Businesses involved in these violations could also face significant penalties.
An establishment may receive a fine of up to SAR 100,000 and could be prohibited from recruiting workers for a period of up to five years.
Authorities may also publicly announce the violation as part of the penalties imposed.
Saudi Arabia Urges Public to Report Violations
The Ministry of Interior has urged individuals and businesses to cooperate with authorities in combating violations related to residency, labor and border security regulations.
People and establishments have also been warned against employing, transporting, sheltering or concealing individuals who violate these regulations.
How to Report Residency and Labor Violations
Residents can report suspected violations through the designated emergency numbers.
In Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, reports can be made by calling 911.
For other regions across Saudi Arabia, violations can be reported by calling 999.
According to the Ministry, reports are handled confidentially, and people who report violations will not be held responsible for the reported offense.
Saudi Arabia Continues Enforcement of Labor and Residency Rules
The latest warning reinforces Saudi Arabia’s enforcement measures against establishments and individuals involved in residency and labor violations.
Employers should ensure that expatriate workers have the appropriate legal status and authorization before employing them or allowing them to work outside the conditions permitted under Saudi regulations.
