A significant modification that permits visa holders to stay for up to 90 days and extend for a further 90 days has been made to the regulations governing temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services according to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) this action which is a component of larger reforms agreed by the Saudi Cabinet is to improve alignment between labour market demands and visa laws and to increase flexibility for the private sector.
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With a longer grace period the visa now known as the “temporary work visa for Hajj and Umrah services,” will be valid from Shaban 15 to the end of Muharram (roughly from February 14 to July 25).
The amended laws facilitate enterprises’ hiring of temporary workers by expanding the availability of these visas for those operating during the Umrah season.
Additionally, the ministry is instituting more stringent oversight and openness in visa-related procedures along with deadlines for completion.
One important provision is that before a visa can be provided through Saudi embassies and consulates overseas workers must have a signed job contract and be covered by required medical insurance.
Violations will result in harsh sanctions for the offender to stop misuse.
Companies that are found to be selling temporary work permits risk fines of up to 50,000 Saudi riyals as well as a five-year ban from offering services related to the Hajj and Umrah. These penalties may be imposed concurrently.
After approved these modifications will go into effect 180 days later providing businesses with enough time to adjust to the new system and guaranteeing more seamless operations during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.