GOSI Work Injury Benefits for Expats in Saudi Arabia

Learn about GOSI work injury benefits for expats in Saudi Arabia, including medical care, compensation, and reporting procedures.

As an expat working in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to understand what work injuries are and how they are handled under the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI). Work injuries refer to accidents or illnesses that happen because of your job. These incidents are covered by GOSI to ensure workers receive the necessary support and compensation.

What Are Work Injuries?

A work injury is any accident or health issue that occurs:

While performing a task assigned by your employer
For example, using machinery, lifting heavy items, or working on a project.
On the way to or from work
If you are injured while traveling between your home and workplace.
Due to or during work
Accidents that happen at the workplace, such as falls, burns, or injuries from equipment.
From a work-related illness
For example, exposure to harmful chemicals, loud noises, or other hazardous conditions at work.

Reporting a Work Injury

Notify Employer: The injured person (or representative) must inform their employer within 7 days of the injury, deterioration, or diagnosis of a disease.
Notify GOSI: The employer must report the injury to GOSI within 3 days if it requires more than first aid.

GOSI Benefits for Work Injuries for Expatriates

The Occupational Hazards Branch of GOSI provides expats comprehensive support in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses. Here are the key benefits available:

1. Medical Care

GOSI ensures free and unlimited medical care for expatriates through its contracted hospitals and medical centers. This includes:

Diagnosis and treatment.
Medication, medical supplies, and prosthetics.
Care is provided as long as it is medically necessary, without time limits.

2. Cash Compensation

a. Daily Allowances

If an injury causes a temporary disability that prevents the worker from performing their duties, they are entitled to:
100% of the daily wage during sick leave.
75% of the daily wage if treated at GOSI’s expense.
The allowance begins the day after the injury and continues until the worker recovers, is deemed permanently disabled, or dies.
Transportation and residence expenses for the injured and a companion are also covered if deemed necessary by the medical board.

b. Lump Sum Compensation for Permanent Disability

Non-Saudi workers are compensated with a one-time payment instead of a monthly benefit.
If the injury results in:
Total Permanent Disability (100%):
Compensation equals 84 months of benefits, up to a maximum of SAR 330,000.
The allowance for assistance (if required) is also included in the calculation.
Partial Disability (50%-99%):
Compensation equals 60 months of benefits, up to a maximum of SAR 165,000.

c. Compensation for Death

If the injury results in the worker’s death, their family members receive a lump sum of 84 months of benefits, up to a maximum of SAR 330,000.
The compensation is equally distributed among family members.

3. Body Transportation Expenses

GOSI covers all costs for transporting the body of a deceased expatriate to their home country if they die due to a work-related injury or while receiving permanent disability benefits.

For more details, visit the GOSI website at gosi.gov.sa or consult your employer to understand your rights and responsibilities as a worker in Saudi Arabia.