Are you working as an “Accountant” but your Iqama says “Labor”? In 2026, this is a serious crime called “Tastur” (Cover-up). The Ministry is conducting random inspections, and if your actual job doesn’t match your ID, you face immediate deportation.
The good news is, you can now correct your profession online via Qiwa. But be careful—you cannot switch to a “Saudized” profession (like HR or Security Guard).
| Category | Allowed? | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| General (Labor to Cleaner etc.) | ✅ Yes | None |
| Skilled (Engineer/IT) | ✅ Yes | Degree + Council Reg. |
| Saudized (HR/Cashier) | ❌ NO | Strictly for Locals |
1. Who Can Change Their Profession?
Not everyone can become a “Manager”.
- Private Sector Employees: Yes, via Qiwa.
- Domestic Workers: No. House drivers or maids cannot easily change to commercial professions without transferring sponsorship first.
- Engineering/Medical: To change to an Engineer or Doctor profession, you MUST have a valid registration with the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) or Health Specialties.
Planning to transfer sponsorship first? Read the rules here -> How to Transfer Sponsorship via Qiwa
2. The Process via Qiwa (Step-by-Step)
Your sponsor (Kafeel) or HR must initiate this.
- Login: Employer logs into Qiwa account.
- Select Employee: Chooses your name and clicks “Change Profession”.
- Choose New Title: Selects the new profession from the allowed list.
- Payment: Pays the 1,000 SAR fee.
- Your Approval: You receive a request in your Qiwa account to “Accept”. Once accepted, go to Absher and print the new Iqama.
3. Fees & Requirements
- Government Fee: 1,000 SAR (Paid by Employer).
- Medical Test: Not required for most profession changes.
- Certificate: If changing to a skilled profession (e.g., Accountant, IT Specialist), you must upload your attested degree certificate.
4. Restricted Professions (Saudization)
Do NOT try to change your profession to these. They are 100% reserved for Saudis in 2026:
- Human Resources (HR) Manager / Specialist
- Security Guard
- Receptionist (in hotels/hospitals)
- Government Relations Officer (Muqqab)
- Cashier (in major supermarkets)
If your company is forcing you into a restricted job, check your rights -> Saudi Labor Law Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I change my profession from “Labor” to “Driver”?
A: Yes, if you have a valid Saudi Driving License. Without a license, the system will reject the request.
Q2: What happens if I work in a different profession without changing it?
A: You risk a fine of up to 50,000 SAR and deportation. The “Qiwa” system now links your contract title directly to your Iqama.
Q3: Who pays the 1,000 SAR fee?
A: Legally, the employer should pay for any correction of status.
