Saudi Arabia has officially abolished the kafala sponsorship system and introduced a new “freedom visa” for foreign workers, marking a historic shift in the kingdom’s labor policy.
The reform, announced by government officials, ends the long-standing requirement that migrant workers obtain permission from their Saudi employers to change jobs, leave the country, or renew residency permits. Under the new framework, eligible workers will be able to switch employers freely and travel in and out of the kingdom without prior authorization.
Authorities described the change as a transformative step aimed at modernizing the labor market, improving working conditions, and aligning Saudi Arabia’s employment practices with international standards. The move is expected to impact millions of expatriate workers across sectors such as construction, healthcare, domestic function, and retail.
The new “freedom visa” will allow qualified foreign nationals to reside and work in Saudi Arabia without being tied to a single sponsor. Officials said the visa is designed to attract skilled global talent, support economic diversification goals under Vision 2030, and enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global labor market.
While the reform has been welcomed by human rights organizations and international labor groups as a long-overdue advancement, some business leaders have expressed concerns about potential challenges in workforce retention and recruitment costs. Government officials emphasized that safeguards will be in place to ensure a smooth transition for both employers and employees.
The abolition of the kafala system follows years of gradual reforms, including the introduction of improved contract regulations, wage protection systems, and expanded rights for domestic workers. Saudi officials stated that the latest changes reflect the kingdom’s commitment to upholding dignity and fairness in the workplace.
Analysts note that the policy shift could serve as a model for other Gulf Cooperation Council states still operating under sponsorship-based labor systems. The full implementation timeline and eligibility criteria for the freedom visa are expected to be detailed in forthcoming regulatory updates.
