Saudi Arabia has implemented a new policy requiring foreign nationals to obtain health insurance before the issuance of temporary work visas. The insurance must be provided by a provider registered with the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI).1
WHY THIS MATTERS
Requiring health insurance coverage before, not after, the issuance of temporary work visas affects both employers and foreign employees engaging in temporary assignments in Saudi Arabia.
For globally mobile employees, the change provides greater assurance of health coverage upon arrival in Saudi Arabia but also introduces an additional step in the hiring and onboarding process.
Requiring the direct linkage of insurance coverage with the employee’s passport aims to enhance protection and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Key Highlights
Mandatory Pre-Issuance Insurance
Health insurance must be obtained before a temporary work visa can be issued, replacing the previous post-approval requirement.
Approved Providers Only
Sponsoring companies must use health insurance providers registered and approved by the CCHI. Providers listed solely on the Enjaz platform are no longer sufficient.
Document Submission and Linkage
The insurance provider must submit a copy of the applicant’s passport and temporary employment contract to the CCHI, directly linking the insurance to the individual’s passport record.
Immediate Applicability
The new rules apply to all employers sponsoring foreign workers on temporary work visas and are effective immediately.
Policy Objectives
The update is intended to strengthen worker protection and streamline administrative processes for both employers and regulatory authorities.
KPMG INSIGHTS
In light of the change, organizations may wish to review their current onboarding and visa application processes to accommodate the new health insurance requirements, update internal checklists to reflect the need for CCHI-approved providers, and communicate the procedural changes to all affected stakeholders.
If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about the scope of the directive, its application and potential impacts, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified immigration professional or a member of the GMS/People Services team with KPMG in the Lower Gulf (see the Contacts section).
FOOTNOTE:
1 Arab Press, “Saudi Arabia Makes Health Insurance Mandatory for Temporary Work Visas,” published on 18 November 2025.
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in United Arab Emirates.
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