Saad Al-Enaini JEDDAH — The Ministry of Labor's decision to increase work permit fees from SR100 to SR2,400 annually for private companies and establishments employing more expatriates than Saudis took effect from Nov. 15. The decision triggered negative reactions from business owners and work permit renewal offices. The latter witnessed a 40 percent decline in work permit renewals after the decision. In most cases, the number of renewals went down to four from 30. Sponsors and expatraites are not willing to pay this amount. Those who are willing to pay will recover their fee by increasing the prices of their goods. Many expatriates workers are requesting to go on a final exit, which could result in shortage of workers and cause delay in many government projects. Business owners are now questioning the authorities behind the decision and what benefits it holds for citizens.
