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How to Change Jobs in Saudi Arabia — Kafala Reform & Work Transfer Guide

Saudi Arabia's 2021 labour reforms dramatically changed the rules for expat job mobility. Under the old Kafala system, workers needed their employer's permission to transfer to a new job. Under the new system, expats who have completed 12 months of service can transfer to a new employer without their current employer's approval, leave Saudi Arabia without an exit permit, and return on a re-entry visa. This guide explains how the job transfer process works, what conditions apply, and how to do it through Absher.

Highlights

  • ★Since March 2021, expat workers can transfer to a new employer without the current employer's consent after completing 12 months of service.
  • ★The work transfer is done entirely online through the Absher platform or the QIWA platform — no visit to a government office required.
  • ★Your new employer initiates the transfer request; you approve it through your Absher account.
  • ★During the transfer period, your Iqama remains valid — you are not considered to be on a sponsorship gap.
  • ★If you leave a job before 12 months, transfer is still possible if you can demonstrate a labour dispute, unpaid wages, or other employer violations.
  • ★The reform also removed the exit permit requirement — expats no longer need employer approval to travel outside Saudi Arabia.

Who Is This For?

Expat workers already employed in Saudi Arabia who want to change jobs — whether accepting a better offer, escaping a difficult employer, or moving to a new sector.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. 1Secure a formal job offer from your new employer — ensure the offer letter specifies salary, title, start date, and contract duration.
  2. 2Your new employer submits a work transfer request through the QIWA platform (qiwa.sa) using your Iqama number.
  3. 3You will receive a notification through Absher (absher.sa) or via SMS asking you to approve or reject the transfer request.
  4. 4Log in to Absher, navigate to Services → Individuals → Work Permit Transfer, and approve the transfer request.
  5. 5Once approved, your work permit is transferred to the new employer. Your new employer must update your Iqama sponsor details.
  6. 6Serve your notice period at your current employer as per your contract (typically 30–90 days). Leaving without serving notice may result in a legal claim for damages.
  7. 7Collect your final settlement from your current employer: unpaid salary, unused annual leave, and end-of-service gratuity if applicable.
  8. 8Begin your new role. Your new employer handles the Iqama renewal under their sponsorship at the next renewal date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✗Resigning before the transfer is approved — always have the transfer confirmed through Absher before you submit your resignation.
  • ✗Not serving your notice period — even with the new transfer rights, leaving without notice can expose you to a civil claim from your former employer.
  • ✗Failing to collect your end-of-service gratuity before leaving — once you are transferred, claiming gratuity from your former employer becomes more difficult.
  • ✗Assuming transfer is always possible before 12 months — the 12-month rule applies unless you have a documented labour dispute.
  • ✗Ignoring a non-compete clause in your contract — some Saudi employment contracts include non-compete clauses that may restrict you from joining a direct competitor.
  • ✗Not updating your national address (Watheqa) with your new employer's address after transfer — this can cause issues with Iqama renewal.

Practical Tips

  • 💡Use the QIWA platform (qiwa.sa) to check your own work permit status, view your contract details, and track any active transfer requests.
  • 💡If your employer is withholding wages or refusing to process your transfer, file a complaint through the Ministry of Human Resources (MHRSD) — this is a protected right.
  • 💡Negotiate your final settlement before transferring — once you leave, it is harder to recover outstanding amounts. Get everything in writing.
  • 💡If you are transferring within the same group of companies or to a sister company, the process may be treated differently by MHRSD — confirm with your HR team.
  • 💡The new employer typically bears the cost of the work permit transfer fee.
  • 💡If you are in a grace period (your Iqama has expired but renewal is in process), confirm with your new employer that the transfer can still proceed — it usually can, but delays are possible.
  • 💡Keep a copy of your GOSI statement, payslips, and employment contract from your current employer before leaving — these are difficult to retrieve after the employment relationship ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change jobs without my employer's permission?

Yes — since March 2021, expat workers who have completed 12 months of service can transfer to a new employer without their current employer's approval. The transfer is processed through the QIWA and Absher platforms and does not require the employer's consent or signature.

What if I have not completed 12 months yet?

You can still apply for a transfer before 12 months if you have a documented labour dispute — such as unpaid wages, unsafe working conditions, or employer violations. File a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources (MHRSD) first, as the dispute record supports your transfer application.

What happens to my Iqama when I change employers?

Your Iqama number stays the same — it is linked to you personally, not your employer. The sponsor name on your Iqama changes to your new employer at the next renewal. During the transfer period, your Iqama remains valid.

Do I need to leave Saudi Arabia to change jobs?

No. The work transfer process is done entirely within Saudi Arabia through Absher and QIWA. You do not need to exit and re-enter the country.

Am I entitled to end-of-service gratuity when I change jobs?

Yes, if you have completed 2 or more years of service with your current employer. End-of-service gratuity accrues at a rate of half a month's salary per year for the first 5 years, and one month's salary per year thereafter. Collect this from your employer before your transfer is finalised. See the end of service gratuity guide for full details.

Can my employer block my transfer or put me on a blacklist?

Under the new system, employers cannot legally block a transfer after 12 months of service. However, if you have violated your contract (absconding, serious misconduct), your employer may have filed a report that could complicate your transfer. You can check your status through Absher under personal services.