How to Check Saudi Arabia Iqama Transfer Status 2025

As an expatriate working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, understanding the Iqama (residence permit) transfer process is crucial when changing employers. According to Saudi labor laws, employees are required to complete this transfer procedure before starting work with a new sponsor. Failing to do so can result in legal complications and penalties for both the employee and the new employer.

The Importance of Verifying Iqama Transfer Status In Saudi Arabia, the Iqama acts as your legal proof of residence and employment authorization. When you change jobs, your new employer must initiate the process to transfer your Iqama sponsorship. Verifying the status of this transfer is essential for several reasons:

Iqama Transfer Status and Importance:

1. Understanding Iqama Transfer: When you switch jobs in Saudi Arabia, your new employer must initiate the process to transfer your Iqama (residence permit) sponsorship.
2. Importance of Checking Status: Verifying the transfer status is crucial to ensure you can legally work for your new employer and avoid penalties for both you and your employer.

Methods to Check Iqama Transfer Status:

3. Check through Ministry of Labor (MOL) Website
   • Access the MOL E-Services Portal
   • Select “Transfer of expatriate worker service”
   • Enter your Iqama number and check for status messages
4. Interpret MOL Status Messages
   • “No request for Iqama transfer”: No transfer request has been initiated
   • “Iqama transfer request under study”: New employer has applied, but current employer hasn’t approved yet
   • “Approved by MOL/Pending MOI”: Transfer approved by MOL, but fee not paid or Jawazat visit pending
5. Iqama has transferred: Transfer process is complete, you can see new sponsor’s name
6. Check Iqama Transfer Status through Absher
   • Login to your Absher account, go to “Dashboard”
   • Click “More Details” to see your new sponsor’s name if the transfer is complete
7. Verify through Qiwa Platform
   • Register and login to your Qiwa Individual account
   • Your current employer’s name will be displayed
8. Check Kafeel (Sponsor) Name via Mudad
   • Register and login to the Mudad platform
   • Select “Compliance System” and check the establishment associated with your ID
9. Confirm Naqal Kafala (Sponsorship Transfer) through MOFA
   • Activate the Nafath app
   • Login to MOFA Visa portal, enter Iqama number, approve sign-in on Nafath
   • Select “Family Visit Visa Application for Residents”
   • New employer’s name will be shown if Naqal Kafala is completed
10. Monitor Iqama and Visa Validity
    • After the transfer, ensure you renew your Iqama and visa on time
11. Seek Assistance if Needed
    • If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to seek help from your employer or relevant authorities.

By utilizing these comprehensive methods, you can thoroughly verify the status of your Iqama sponsorship transfer and ensure a smooth transition to your new employer.

Conclusion

Navigating the Iqama transfer process in Saudi Arabia is a crucial step when changing jobs. Familiarizing yourself with the available tools and methods to check the status of your sponsorship transfer will not only help you comply with Saudi labor laws but also ensure a seamless transition to your new employer. Remember, taking the time to verify your Iqama transfer status can save you from potential legal and financial consequences down the line.