As per Labor laws in Saudi Arabia, an employee is bound to work solely as per contract terms for his sponsor/employer. It is not allowed to work for any other company or employer in an illegal manner. Also, it is not allowed to work as self-employed in the name of Free Visa (Azad Visa).
In this article, I will discuss about possible penalties for Working illegally as self-employed or working for an employer other than the actual employer.
Penalties for Working Illegally as Self-Employed in the name of Azad Visa in Saudi Arabia
Many people from different parts of the world come to Saudi Arabia on work visa. Most of these people opt for fully legal options and work for their sponor/employer also known as kafeel. However, many people opt for illegal ways of making money in Saudi Arabia by working as self-employed or by working for other companies or individuals other than those specified in the contract.
Working in the name of Azad Visa in such a way is considered a violation of the Saudi Labor Laws and it is subject to severe legal penalties.
Following are the possible penalties if you are found a violator working as self-employed or working illegally in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:
- A fine of up-to 50, 000 Saudi Riyal.
- Jail for a period of up-to 6 months.
- A possible deportation from Saudi Arabia. Recommended Reading: Can you come back to Saudi Arabia after deportation?
You may even face more than one of the above penalties in case if your repeated violations or depending upon the severity of your offense.
It is also important to mention here that those who violate labor laws in Saudi Arabia may get reported by anyone as KSA authorities encourage people to report any such violations.
Other than employees, employers are also subject to punishments including fines up-to 50,000 Riyals and imprisonment of up-to 3 months if they are found involved in any such violations to allow their employees to work in the name of Azad Visa.