Iqama Transfer Saudi: How to Change Your Sponsor
The kafala (sponsorship) system in Saudi Arabia has undergone significant reform. Since March 2021, the Labour Reform Initiative gives workers in the private sector the ability to transfer to a new employer in many situations without needing their current sponsor's approval. Here is everything you need to know about the transfer process.
The Labour Reform Initiative (2021)
In March 2021, Saudi Arabia introduced the Labour Reform Initiative, fundamentally changing the employer-employee relationship. Three key services were launched: job mobility (transfer between employers), exit/re-entry visa without employer approval, and final exit without employer approval.
These reforms apply to all private sector expatriate workers. Domestic workers (covered under separate regulations) have different rules. The reforms do not apply to government sector workers.
When You Can Transfer Without Employer Consent
Contract expired: Once your contract ends, you can transfer freely through Qiwa without any approval needed
Wages unpaid 2+ months: WPS violations give you automatic right to transfer
No written contract: If your employer never issued a written contract registered on Qiwa
After notice period: Serve the required notice (typically 90 days) and you can transfer
Employer absent from Qiwa: If your employer has not responded on the platform for 15+ days
Step-by-Step Transfer Process on Qiwa
Step 1: The new employer initiates the transfer request on Qiwa (qiwa.sa) by entering your iqama number and job details.
Step 2: You receive a notification on Qiwa and must accept the transfer request within 10 days.
Step 3: Your current employer is notified and has 15 days to respond. They can approve, or raise an objection (only valid if you have an active contract and have not served notice).
Step 4: If no objection or objection is overruled, the transfer completes within 7 to 10 working days. Your iqama is updated to the new employer.
Notice period trap: Some contracts specify notice periods longer than the legal 90 days. While Article 75 of the Saudi Labour Law allows this, any notice period exceeding 90 days should be carefully reviewed. TenderScan can flag excessive notice periods in your contract.
What Happens to End-of-Service Benefits
When you transfer to a new employer, your current employer must pay all outstanding entitlements within one week of the transfer date. This includes: unpaid wages, accrued annual leave balance, end-of-service gratuity calculated up to the transfer date, and any other contractual benefits.
If your employer fails to pay, file a complaint through HRSD. The transfer cannot be reversed due to non-payment — your former employer simply becomes a debtor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer without employer consent?
Yes, in several cases: contract expired, wages unpaid 2+ months, no written contract, or after serving notice period. All processed through Qiwa.
How long does the transfer take?
7 to 10 working days once both parties approve. Up to 30 days if the current employer objects and HRSD must review.
What is the notice period?
90 days standard. During probation it can be shorter as agreed in contract. Your contract may specify longer periods.
What if employer does not renew my iqama?
Report to HRSD. The employer is legally responsible for maintaining your residency. Failure to renew gives you grounds for a consent-free transfer.
Know Your Transfer Rights Before You Move
Upload your current contract to TenderScan. We identify notice period requirements, non-compete clauses, and anything that could delay your transfer.
Check Your Contract