ISLAMABAD – In an attempt to attract foreign skilled professionals andinvestors, Saudi Arab has abolished decades-old *Kafala* system underwhich a migrant worker’s immigration status is legally bound to anindividual employer or sponsor (*kafeel*) during the contract period.
The kingdom’s Shoura Council on Wednesday approved a “green card”-styleresidency scheme, reported *Arab News.*
The authorised draft of the new Privileged Iqama system will offer a raftof benefits to highly skilled expatriates and owners of capital funds.Unlike the existing *iqama* system, such residents would not require aSaudi sponsor or employer.
The benefits on offer include the ability to recruit of workers; ownershipof property and transport; employment in the private sector, commerce andindustry; freedom of movement and exit from the kingdom and return; and theuse of designated queues at airports.
Under the system, which requires a guarantee of specific fees, there aretwo categories: An extended *iqama* and a temporary one.
Eligible expatriates must have a valid passport with a credit report, ahealth report and no criminal record.
*The story originally appeared in* *Arab Newslink*