Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to what workers in Saudi Arabia ask most — updated for 2026.
How is the end-of-service award calculated?
Half a month's wage per year for the first five years and a full month per year after, on the last wage (Article 84). On resignation, Article 85 ratios apply: under 2 years nothing, 2–5 years one-third, 5–10 two-thirds, 10+ full.
Is it based on basic salary only or with allowances?
The law uses the last actual wage: basic + fixed allowances (housing, transport). Variable commissions may be excluded by written agreement (Article 86).
I resigned after 7 years — how much?
Two-thirds of the full award. Example: SAR 4,000 × (0.5×5 + 1×2) = 18,000; two-thirds = SAR 12,000.
When must the award be paid?
Within one week if the employer ended it, two weeks if you ended the contract (Article 88).
What is the 2026 dependent fee?
SAR 400 per month per dependent or companion (SAR 4,800/year), paid in advance when issuing or renewing the iqama.
Who pays the dependent fee?
The worker bears it, while the work permit (up to SAR 9,600/year) and the SAR 650 iqama fee are on the employer.
What is the worker iqama renewal fee?
SAR 650 Jawazat fee per year, but the employer's total cost includes the work permit.
What happens if iqama renewal is late?
SAR 500 fine first time, SAR 1,000 on repeat, possible deportation on the third.
What is the 2026 GOSI deduction for Saudis?
9.75% for pre-July-2024 registrants (fixed); 10.75% for those registered July 2024 or later (since July 2026), rising to 11.75% by 2028.
Is GOSI deducted from expat salaries?
No. Expats are exempt from pension and SANED; the employer pays 2% occupational hazard only.
What is the family visit visa fee?
About SAR 300 single-entry and SAR 500 multiple-entry, plus service fees and insurance.
What if my employer won't pay my dues?
Start with your company's HR, then file a complaint via the HRSD platform or the Labor Court.