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  1. Madrous
  2. Setting up
  3. Freelance Document

Step 3 of 12 in the set-up journey

The Freelance Document: who can obtain it, what it allows and what it does not

If you will work alone in a freelance profession, the Freelance Document may be a quicker start than a Commercial Registration. But it has clear limits you need to know before you build your business on it.

Last updated: 4 November 2026

Who can obtain a Freelance Document?

A Saudi citizen aged 18 or over with an active Absher account. Government employees may apply, but their freelance work is subject to their employer's regulations [1].

Fees and validity

  • Fees: currently free, with a note that fees may be introduced later [1].
  • Validity: one year, and you receive a reminder before it expires. Not renewing suspends the services linked to it, including the business bank account [1].
  • Number: up to 5 documents per person in different professions [1].

What the document allows

  • Opening a business bank account linked to the document.
  • Issuing electronic invoices through an accredited provider, and using digital point-of-sale.
  • Optional registration with GOSI (social insurance).

Source: the FAQs on the Freelance platform [1].

What the document does not allow

  • Recruiting workers from abroad or hiring employees.
  • Opening a shop, which requires a Commercial Registration.
  • Large-scale import and export.

If your plan needs any of these, start with a Commercial Registration [1].

Professions with specific requirements

Some professions on the platform are linked to other authorities, such as delivery (Transport General Authority), accounting (Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants, SOCPA), mobile food carts (Balady), real estate brokerage (FAL licence), and management consulting, subject to conditions [1]. Check the requirements for your profession on the platform before applying.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Freelance Document free?

Yes, currently, according to the FAQs on the Freelance platform, which note that fees may be introduced later [1].

Can I hire a worker with a Freelance Document?

No. The document does not allow recruiting workers or opening a shop [1].

Does a Freelance Document replace a Commercial Registration?

For someone working alone in a freelance profession without premises or employees, it may be enough. If you need premises or employees, you need a Commercial Registration [1].

Sources

  1. Frequently asked questionsFreelance Platform · accessed 2026-11-04

Sources last checked: 4 November 2026.