Saudi approves extension of Grace Period for Hajj and Umrah Work Visas

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Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has extended the grace period for obtaining temporary work visa for Hajj and Umrah services.

The extension pushes the deadline from Shaban 15 to the end of Muharram (approximately February 14 to July 25), giving businesses extra time to prepare for peak seasons.

This change is part of a broader update to the visa system aimed at aligning visa regulations with labor market needs and making the work environment more appealing to employers and workers.

As part of the overhaul, the “seasonal work visa” has been renamed to the “temporary work visa for Hajj and Umrah services,” and businesses operating during the Umrah season will have expanded eligibility to apply. These updates aim to streamline the visa process and introduce clearer timelines to improve governance and efficiency.

Under the new rules, employers must now provide signed contracts and medical insurance for all temporary workers, with penalties set to prevent misuse of the system. Businesses can also extend temporary visas by 90 days without additional approval, providing greater operational flexibility during the busy Hajj and Umrah seasons.

The updated visa regulations will take effect 180 days after approval, allowing businesses ample time to adjust ahead of the upcoming religious seasons.

SOURCE: msn

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