Discover Friendly Saudi Iqama and Indian Worker Rules!
Saudi Arabia has introduced a significant change to its residency permit (Iqama) system for domestic workers and similar positions. Effective August 16, 2026, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Passports and the Musaned platform, now allows employers to issue or renew Iqamas in three-month increments or its multiples. This shift eliminates the requirement for employers to pay for long-term residency fees in a single payment, allowing for 3, 6, 9, or other multi-month options. Authorities state this move aims to provide financial flexibility, though workers are advised to track expiration dates closely, as shorter cycles require more frequent vigilance. Employers are reminded that residency permit validity and employment contract status remain distinct legal requirements.
- Saudi Arabia introduces three-month Iqama renewals starting August 16, 2026.
- Indian Embassy releases updated recruitment guidelines for domestic workers on August 24, 2026.
- Mandatory electronic salary transfers for all domestic workers finalized as of January 1, 2026.
Indian Embassy Recruitment Updates
Following these updates, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh released revised recruitment guidance on August 24, 2026. Recruitment of domestic service workers—including housemaids, drivers, cooks, and guards—must be conducted exclusively through authorized Saudi and Indian recruiting agencies. All documents, including demand letters, power of attorney, and employment contracts, must be attested by the Embassy or Consulate and registered via the eMigrate system. Workers are cautioned against relying on private middlemen, WhatsApp promises, or unregistered agents.
Safeguards for Domestic Workers
Specific safeguards for female domestic workers include a minimum age requirement of over 30 years and a mandatory minimum monthly wage of SR 1,500. Additionally, a financial bank guarantee of USD 2,500, or its equivalent in Saudi Riyals, must be deposited in the name of the Embassy of India, Riyadh, or the Consulate General of India, Jeddah, depending on the jurisdiction. Employment contracts must be signed by four parties: the worker, the Saudi sponsor, the Indian recruiting agent, and the Saudi recruiting agent, followed by attestation. The Embassy emphasizes that contracts are available in English-Arabic, as well as Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu, to ensure workers understand all terms before signing.
Electronic Salary Transfers
Furthermore, as of January 1, 2026, Saudi Arabia has finalized the mandate for electronic salary transfers for all domestic workers. Employers must pay wages through approved banks or digital wallets linked to the worker's residency number. Indian workers are encouraged to maintain digital records of these monthly salary credits to serve as evidence in potential disputes, discouraging reliance on cash-only payments.