Since HRSD's Labor Reform Initiative, launched on 4 November 2020, a private-sector expatriate can move to a new employer through Qiwa, sometimes without the current employer's consent. The new employer starts the request on Qiwa. You accept it there.
When your contract has ended
Under the ministerial decision amending Article 14 of the Labour Law's executive regulations, a worker may transfer when the documented contract ends, without the current employer's approval. With the employer's approval, there is no minimum period, unless the Nitaqat rules say otherwise.
During the contract
HRSD's job mobility guidebook lists these conditions for moving without consent while a contract is running:
- You work under the Saudi Labour Law. Domestic workers use Musaned instead.
- You have completed one year with the current employer since entering the Kingdom.
- You have a valid, documented employment contract.
- A new employer has made you a job offer through Qiwa.
- You give the current employer the notice period.
When those conditions do not apply
- No registered contract within three months of your entry.
- Wages not paid for three consecutive months.
- The employer is absent through travel, prison or death.
- Your work permit or iqama has expired.
- In a labour dispute, the employer missed two hearings.
- The current employer approves the move.
Last checked: Oct 2026. Qiwa shows the current rules and any fee for the transfer on the request screen. We do not print a transfer fee.
Marked absent from work? Read huroob. Finishing your job? Calculate your end-of-service award.