Up to SAR 50,000 Fine and Deportation for Self-Employed Expats
Saudi Arabia warns that expats working for their own account may face a fine of up to SAR 50,000, six months in jail and deportation.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has warned expatriates against working for their own account in violation of the Kingdom’s residency and labor regulations.
According to the ministry, an expatriate found to be self-employed in violation of the regulations could face a fine of up to SAR 50,000.
The penalties may also include imprisonment for up to six months, depending on the violation.
In addition, the expatriate may face deportation from Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry of Interior urged everyone to comply with the Kingdom’s residency, labor and border security regulations, warning that failure to follow the rules could result in penalties.
The ministry also called on the public to report violations of residency, labor and border security regulations.
Penalty for a self-employed expatriate. pic.twitter.com/ZW9fgrhJxR — وزارة الداخلية 🇸🇦 (@MOISaudiArabia) August 24, 2026
Violations can be reported by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, while 999 can be used in all other regions of Saudi Arabia.
The ministry said reports will be handled with strict confidentiality and without liability on the person making the report.
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