How Many Times Can Iqama Be Transferred in Saudi Arabia?

Today in this article we give complete information about how the iqama transfer system works. The Saudi iqama serves as your legal residency identification within the kingdom. It gives you legal permission to live and work in Saudi Arabia. One of the most asked questions by expatriates is “How many times can my Iqama be transferred from one employer to another?”

WeIn this article we will guide you about the official rules under Saudi Labour Law regarding iqama transfer limits, valid reasons for transforming and the process using the Absher and Qiwa platforms and the total fee involved. If you are a household worker and work for a company then this guide will clearly explain your rights and responsibility when it comes to iqama transfer.

Also Read: Change Iqama Picture in Saudi Arabia

How Many Iqama Transfers Are Allowed in Saudi Arabia

Under Saudi labor regulations then the transfer of an iqama is permitted a maximum of three times. Following the points below.

• An expatriate worker can change their sponsorship (kafala) up to four times in total because once with the original employer and three transfers after that.
• After the third transfer then the iqama holder can’t transfer again unless they get special approval due to exceptional reasons.

This rule is designed to make the labor market more stable and to prevent frequent job switching by foreign workers.

Also Read: Link Mobile Number With Iqama

Steps to Iqama Transfer in Qiwa Platform

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has introduced Qiwa as its official platform. It facilitated employment related services such as iqama transfers and the management of work agreements.

Three Main Iqama Transfer Scenarios in are allowed in Qiwa.

Direct Transfer Without Employer Approval

You don’t need a notice period and your current employer’s approval in the following cases.

• Your work permit has expired.
• Your iqama has expired.

Steps You Need to Follow

• Step 01: The prospective employer initiates the transfer request via the Qiwa platform.
• Step 02: The employee accepts the request.
• Step 03: The new employer completes the transfer using Absher Business and the resident portal.
• Step 04: The iqama transfer is complete.

Transfer with Notice Period No Current Employer Approval

In this case, you don’t need approval from your current employer but a notice period of up to 90 days is required.

This option applies if:

• Provided the employee has resided in saudi arabia for over a year. 
• The new employer meets all the requirements, including
  • 100% completion of expat contract documentation.
  • Having approved internal labor regulations.

Transfer Steps

• Step 01: A transfer request is submitted by the new employer via the Qiwa platform.
• Step 02: Employee accepts the request.
• Step 03: New employer completes the transfer process in Absher.
• Step 04: The iqama transfer is finalized. Transfer That Requires Employer Approval Employer approval is required.

Transfer That Requires Employer Approval

• Employer approval is required. 
• No notice period is needed. 

This applies if:

• The worker has been in Saudi Arabia for less than one year. 
• The new company does not meet Qiwa compliance requirements. 

Transfer Steps

• The new employer sends a transfer request.
• The employee approves the request.
• The current employer gives their approval.
• The new employer completes the process through Absher.
• The iqama transfer is finalized.

Also Read: Check Iqama Red Green Status

What is the process for transferring a domestic worker’s iqama using Absher?

If you are a domestic worker then your iqama can be transferred using the Absher platform by following the point given below.

• The current employer initiates the transfer process through the Absher portal.
• Domestic workers access their Absher account to review and approve the transfer request.
• The new employer finalized the transfer within the Absher system.
• Once all parties approve then the iqama transfer is completed.

Iqama Transfer Rules for Companies (via Qiwa)

For a company to request and accept an iqama transfer it must meet the following requirements.

• Have a valid commercial registration.
• The company must be officially active.
• All work permits for the business must be valid.
• Be fully compliant with the Wage Protection System.
• Be rated at least Medium Green (Very Small Green for small businesses).
• Have enough balance in the business account to process the transfer.

Conditions for Iqama Transfer to Workers

To transfer your iqama to another employer then you must fulfill the criteria outlined below.

• You should have no unpaid traffic fines.
• Your iqama should be active and within its validity period.
• Your passport should also be valid. There must be no escape report (Huroob) filed against you.
• You should not have any active exit/re-entry and final exit visas.
• You must get the approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD).

Also Read: Iqama For Exit Re-entry Visa In Saudi Arabia

Iqama Transfer Fees (2025)

Transferring your iqama involves official government fees. Here is the fee structure. 

Note: These fees are usually paid by the new employer but this can depend on your contract agreement. 

Conclusion

If you hold a saudi iqama then enables you to legally reside, work, and utilize services across the Kingdom. But moving me from one employer to another follows strict rules, requires approvals, and comes with a set fee. But an important point should be remembered as given below.

• An iqama holder is allowed a maximum of three transfers.
• For the majority of transfers within the private sector then the Qiwa is a recommended platform.
• Use Absher for domestic worker transfers.
• The fee increases with each transfer.
• Both the current and new employers and the employee must meet certain rules and conditions.

By following the rules then you make sure the transfer process goes smoothly and your legal status stays valid and your rights as a worker in Saudi Arabia are protected.