Saudi Arabia extends expired work permit renewal deadline until end of 2026
Expatriate workers whose work permits expired more than 12 months ago, as well as those whose employers have ceased operations for more than six months without renewing their permits, will be allowed to complete the renewal process within 2026.
Saudi Arabia has extended the grace period for renewing expired work permits (Rukhsa Amal) of expatriate workers, allowing eligible workers and employers additional time to regularise their employment status, the Bangladesh Embassy in Riyadh has said.
According to a special notice issued by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, expatriate workers whose work permits expired more than 12 months ago, as well as those whose employers have ceased operations for more than six months without renewing their permits, will be allowed to complete the renewal process within the current Gregorian year, 2026.
The decision is aimed at strengthening compliance with Saudi labour laws, protecting the contractual rights of both employers and workers, and ensuring that employment-related legal procedures are completed within a specified timeframe.
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The ministry said the extension reflects Saudi Arabia's continued efforts to encourage greater adherence to labour regulations, noting that many companies and workers have been unable to renew work permits due to various circumstances.
Saudi authorities have urged all affected employers and expatriate workers to take immediate steps to renew their work permits before the deadline expires. They warned that legal action will be taken against those who fail to comply with the regulations after the grace period ends.
