Saudi Arabia warns expatriates of fines and deportation for self-employment

Saudi Arabian authorities have issued a warning to expatriates against engaging in self-employment or working outside of their legally permitted employment frameworks. The Ministry of Interior and the General Directorate of Passports are intensifying enforcement of residency, labor, and border security regulations to curb unauthorized employment.

Penalties for expatriates working for their own account escalate based on the frequency of the offense. A first violation results in a SR10,000 fine and deportation. A second offense carries a SR25,000 fine, one month of imprisonment, and deportation. For a third or subsequent violation, offenders face fines up to SR50,000, up to six months in prison, and deportation.

Regulations also target those who facilitate these violations. Individuals or businesses that employ, transport, shelter, or conceal violators may face separate penalties, including fines up to SR100,000 and prison terms of up to six months. Authorities have urged the public to report violations via emergency numbers 911 or 999, depending on the region.