One small mistake with your Iqama or “Qiwa” contract in 2026 can end your expat life instantly. The days of working freely (Azad Visa) are over. The Ministry of Human Resources (MHRSD) has digitized everything.
If you don’t know the new rules about “absenting from work” (Huroob) or how the “Employee Transfer” works now, you are walking on a minefield. This guide covers everything you need to stay legal and safe in the Kingdom.
| Subject | Old Rule | New Rule (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Contract | Paper Contract | Qiwa Digital Contract (Mandatory) |
| Huroob | Immediate Ban | 60 Days Grace Period to Transfer |
| Job Change | Kafeel’s Permission | Automatic if Iqama Expired |
| Exit Re-Entry | Kafeel Issued it | You can issue it via Absher |
1. The “Qiwa” Contract: Your New Boss
In 2026, your paper contract has zero value. Only the digital contract recorded in the Qiwa platform matters.
- The Rule: If your contract is not on Qiwa, your Iqama cannot be renewed.
- Notice Period: You must give 60 days’ notice through Qiwa before resigning. If you leave without this, you will face a permanent ban.
- Salary Protection: Your salary must be deposited in the bank exactly as mentioned in Qiwa.
2. Iqama Renewal Fees & Work Permit (Maktab Amal)
The biggest burden for expats is the “Maktab Amal” fee (Work Permit Levy).
- Cost: It remains 9,600 SAR per year for most workers (800 SAR/month).
- Who Pays? Legally, the Employer (Kafeel/Company) must pay this. If your sponsor asks you to pay it, you can file a complaint.
- Quarterly Payment: In 2026, Iqamas can be renewed for 3 months (quarterly) to make payment easier.
Need to check if your sponsor paid the fee? Read -> How to Check Iqama Expiry & Fees
3. Huroob (Absent from Work) – The Nightmare
“Huroob” means your sponsor reported you as a runaway.
- Old Rule: Once reported, you were finished.
- 2026 Update: You now have 60 days to transfer your sponsorship to a new employer without the old sponsor’s permission if the Huroob was unfair.
- Warning: After 60 days, you will be declared “Illegal” and face deportation with a lifetime ban.
4. Transfer of Sponsorship (Kafala)
You can change your job (Kafala) without your Kafeel’s permission in 3 cases:
- Iqama Expired: If your Iqama is expired for more than 3 days.
- No Salary: If you haven’t received a salary for 3 consecutive months.
- Red Nitaqat: If your company falls into the “Red” zone.
5. Final Exit (Khurooj Nihai)
Planning to go home permanently?
- Validity: Once issued, you must leave KSA within 60 days.
- Car & Bill: You must sell your car and clear all STC/Mobily bills before the Final Exit can be issued.
- Coming Back: If you leave on Final Exit legally, you can come back anytime on a new visa.
Before leaving, make sure you clear your debts -> Best Credit Cards & Loan Clearance Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I work for another company if my Kafeel agrees?
A: No. Working for anyone other than your official sponsor is strictly illegal (Ajeer system exception applies). You face a 50,000 SAR fine and deportation.
Q2: How much is the fine for an expired Iqama?
A: 500 SAR for the first time, 1,000 SAR for the second time. If unpaid, you cannot exit the country.
Q3: Can I renew my Iqama if I have traffic violations?
A: No. You must clear all traffic fines (Saher) before Iqama renewal.
