Saudi Arabia’s new skill test rule adds hurdles for Nepali workers
Summary
Saudi Arabia requires Nepali workers to pass a skills certification test before employment, increasing costs and complicating migration amid concerns over lack of prior diplomatic consultation.
Key Points
- Saudi Arabia has made skills certification mandatory for Nepali workers seeking employment.
- Workers must pass a skills assessment test and pay a fee of $100 before being eligible to work.
- The new rule was implemented without prior consultation between Nepal and Saudi Arabia.
- Nepal’s labour agencies worry the certification will raise costs and create hurdles for migrant workers.
