How to Transfer Sponsorship (Kafala) in Saudi Arabia

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer Sponsorship (Kafala) in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, expatriates who wish to move from one sponsor (kafeel) to another must go through the Kafala transfer process, which is now facilitated through the Absher platform and the Qiwa system for private sector employees.

📝 Conditions for Sponsorship Transfer

• The current employer must approve the transfer request (unless conditions allow automatic transfer).
• The expatriate must have a valid Iqama.
• No pending legal issues or violations should exist on the record.
• Transfer must be completed before the Iqama or contract expires.

🔹 Sponsorship Transfer Process via Qiwa

For employees working in private companies, the transfer is processed via the Qiwa portal:

Step 1: New Employer Initiates the Request

1. The new employer logs into Qiwa portal.
2. Selects “Employee Transfer.”
3. Searches for the employee using Iqama number.
4. Submits a request for sponsorship transfer.

Step 2: Employee Notification

• The employee receives a notification in their Absher account and SMS from MOL.
• No action is required by the employee unless additional documents are requested.

Step 3: Current Employer Response

• The current employer has up to 14 days to accept or reject the request in the Qiwa system.
• If the employer does not respond within this time, the request is automatically cancelled.

Step 4: Acceptance and Transfer

• If the current employer approves, the transfer request moves to Jawazat (MOI) system.
• The new employer must pay the transfer fee (SAR 2,000 for first transfer, SAR 4,000 for second, and SAR 6,000 for third).
• After payment, the Iqama is updated with the new sponsor’s name.

📌 Transfer Through Absher (For Domestic Workers)

For domestic workers (house drivers, maids, etc.), the transfer process is handled through the Absher platform.

Steps to Transfer Sponsorship in Absher

1. Login to Absher using the new sponsor’s account.
2. Go to “Services” > “Passports” > “Transfer Services.”
3. Enter the Iqama number of the worker to be transferred.
4. Submit the request.
5. The current sponsor must login and approve the request from their Absher account.
6. Once approved, pay the sponsorship transfer fee through SADAD.
7. The transfer will be completed, and the worker’s Iqama will reflect the new sponsor’s name.

💰 Sponsorship Transfer Fees

• First time transfer: SAR 2,000
• Second time transfer: SAR 4,000
• Third or more: SAR 6,000
• Fees are paid by the new employer via bank or online channels using SADAD

⚠️ Important Notes

• The transfer process is entirely online — no need to visit Jawazat or MOL unless a problem arises.
• Ensure that the new company is eligible to hire workers (green or platinum Nitaqat level).
• Automatic transfers are allowed if current employer fails to pay salary for 3 months or violates labor laws.