Are you stuck with a bad sponsor who delays your salary? In the past, you were helpless. But in 2026, the “Kafala System” has officially evolved into a contractual relationship via Qiwa.
You can now switch jobs legally without your current Kafeel’s approval if certain conditions are met. However, if you don’t follow the “Notice Period” rules on Qiwa, you could be banned from working in Saudi Arabia permanently.
| Condition | Transfer Type | Approval Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Finished | Normal Transfer | ❌ No (Notice Required) |
| Iqama Expired | Direct Transfer | ❌ No (Immediate) |
| Contract Active | Early Transfer | ✅ Yes (Kafeel Must Agree) |
When Can You Transfer Without Permission?
You do NOT need your current sponsor’s approval to transfer if:
- Iqama Expired: Your Iqama has been expired for more than 3 days.
- No Work Permit: Your sponsor failed to issue a work permit (Maktab Amal) within 3 months of your arrival.
- No Salary: You have not been paid for 3 consecutive months (must be proven via WPS).
- Red Zone: Your current company is in the “Red” Nitaqat zone.
Check if your company is Red or Green before transferring -> Check Iqama & Company Status
The Qiwa Transfer Process (Step-by-Step)
In 2026, everything happens on the Qiwa platform.
- New Offer: Your new company sends a job offer through Qiwa.
- Acceptance: You log in to your Qiwa account and “Accept” the offer.
- Notification: Your current sponsor is notified.
- If you are eligible for direct transfer: The transfer happens immediately.
- If you are under contract: The “Notice Period” (usually 60 days) starts.
- Completion: After the notice period, the new company pays the fees, and your Iqama updates automatically.
Who Pays the Transfer Fees?
Never pay this from your own pocket!
- The Rule: The New Employer is legally responsible for paying the government transfer fee and any unpaid Iqama fees (late penalties).
- The Cost:
- 1st Transfer: 2,000 SAR
- 2nd Transfer: 4,000 SAR
- 3rd Transfer: 6,000 SAR
The Notice Period Trap
This is where many expats fail. If your contract is still valid, you cannot leave immediately.
- You must serve a 60-day notice period.
- If you leave work before these 60 days, your old sponsor can report you as “Absent” (Huroob).
- Keep working until the transfer is 100% complete in the Absher system.
Understanding your contract is vital. Read the full rules here -> Saudi Labor Law & Contract Rules 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can my current Kafeel cancel my transfer request?
A: No. Under the new system, the current Kafeel cannot “Reject” a transfer if you have completed your contract or served the notice period.
Q2: What happens to my end-of-service benefits (ESB)?
A: Your old employer must pay your “End of Service” benefits for the years you worked there before you move to the new company.
Q3: Can domestic workers (House Drivers/Maids) use Qiwa?
A: No. Domestic workers still follow the “Musaned” system. Qiwa is currently for professional and commercial professions only.
