Legal Requirements for Hiring Domestic Workers

General guidance on sponsorship, work permits, and regulations in Saudi Arabia

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October 2, 2025
2 min read

Understanding Legal Requirements in Saudi Arabia

Navigating the legal requirements for hiring domestic workers in Saudi Arabia is essential for compliance and peace of mind.

Visa and Sponsorship Requirements

Types of Visas

  • Domestic Worker Visa: Specifically for household employees
  • Transfer of Sponsorship: For workers already in Saudi Arabia
  • Visit Visa Conversion: Limited circumstances for conversion

Sponsorship Responsibilities

As a sponsor (kafeel), you are responsible for:

  • Processing and renewing work permits
  • Providing health insurance
  • Ensuring legal compliance
  • Exit and re-entry permits

Required Documentation

For Sponsors

  1. Valid Saudi ID or Iqama
  2. Proof of income/employment
  3. Family card (if applicable)
  4. Property ownership or rental agreement
  5. Bank statements

For Domestic Workers

  1. Valid passport
  2. Medical fitness certificate
  3. Police clearance certificate
  4. Educational certificates (if applicable)
  5. Previous employment documents

Labor Law Regulations

Working Hours and Rest

  • Maximum 15 hours per day
  • Weekly day off
  • Annual vacation entitlement
  • Public holiday provisions

Compensation Requirements

  • Minimum wage compliance
  • Overtime compensation
  • End of service benefits
  • Salary payment documentation

Health and Safety Requirements

Medical Insurance

  • Mandatory health insurance coverage
  • Annual medical checkups
  • Emergency medical care provisions
  • Occupational injury coverage

Living Conditions

  • Adequate accommodation
  • Privacy and dignity
  • Access to communication
  • Safe working environment

Legal Obligations and Rights

Employer Obligations

  • Timely salary payment
  • Respect for human dignity
  • No passport retention
  • Proper documentation

Worker Rights

  • Safe working conditions
  • Regular rest periods
  • Access to communication
  • Legal recourse for disputes

Important Considerations

Contract Requirements

  • Written employment contract
  • Clear job description
  • Agreed compensation
  • Duration and termination terms

Prohibited Practices

  • Passport confiscation
  • Restriction of movement
  • Physical or verbal abuse
  • Wage withholding

Resources and Support

Government Agencies

  • Ministry of Human Resources
  • Absher platform for visa services
  • Labor courts for disputes
  • Emergency hotlines

Documentation Best Practices

  • Keep copies of all documents
  • Maintain payment records
  • Document working agreements
  • Regular contract reviews

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only. Always consult with legal professionals or relevant government authorities for specific situations and current regulations.

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