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How Many Times Iqama Can Be Transferred?

The Saudi Arabian Iqama, also known as a residence permit, plays a vital role for expatriates working or living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The Iqama allows foreign nationals to reside, work, and access various services in the country. One important process related to Iqama is its transfer, commonly known as the “transfer of sponsorship” in Saudi Arabia. In this article, we will explore how many times Iqama can be transferred, the process, requirements, and more.

What Is Iqama Transfer?

Iqama transfer refers to changing the sponsorship of an expatriate from one employer to another. This process enables workers to switch jobs without leaving the country. You need to transfer sponsorship when an employee changes employers, as the Iqama ties to the sponsoring company or employer. Expatriates need to understand the rules and regulations around this process.

How Many Times Iqama Can Be Transferred?

Many people frequently ask how many times they can transfer their Iqama. According to recent regulations, you can transfer your Iqama a maximum of two times without facing any legal complications. This means that an expatriate can switch employers twice while staying within the country.

However, if you are considering transferring your Iqama for a third time, you must be aware of certain conditions. In such cases, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) may require special permission. Without this permission, the system typically does not allow further transfers.

Conditions for Iqama Transfer

The general rule states that you can transfer an Iqama twice, but several important conditions and requirements are involved in the process:

  1. Employer Consent: The current employer must approve the transfer. If the employer refuses, the transfer cannot proceed. The employer’s permission is a crucial aspect of the process.
  2. No Pending Fines or Violations: Before initiating the transfer, the worker must ensure there are no outstanding fines or violations on their Iqama. Any legal issues, such as unpaid fees or violations, can halt the transfer process.
  3. Exit/Re-entry Visa: In some cases, an expatriate may need to apply for an exit/re-entry visa to leave and return to Saudi Arabia under a new employer. This visa is issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior.
  4. Employment Contract Completion: If you wish to transfer your Iqama, ensure that you have completed your contract with the existing employer. Early termination of the contract can cause delays or even prevent transfer approval.
  5. Iqama Validity: Your Iqama must be valid for at least 90 days before the transfer can take place. If your Iqama is about to expire, it is important to renew it before applying for a transfer.

The Iqama Transfer Process

The process of transferring an Iqama from one employer to another requires several steps. Here’s a general overview of what needs to be done:

  1. Obtain consent from the current employer: You need to ask for permission from your current employer. This step is vital, as, without the employer’s approval, the transfer cannot take place.
  2. Submit Application to the Ministry: Once your employer agrees to the transfer, you will need to submit a request to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD). This step involves filling out the appropriate forms and providing the necessary documentation.
  3. Pay Fees: There are various fees associated with the transfer process, which must be paid before the transfer is approved. These fees can vary depending on the employer and the type of Iqama you hold.
  4. Wait for Approval: After submitting the application and paying fees, you will need to wait for approval from HRSD. This approval process can take a few days to a few weeks.
  5. Transfer the Iqama: Once your new employer receives approval, they can finalize the transfer. The HRSD updates your records, and it links your Iqama to your new sponsor.

Limitations on Iqama Transfer

The general rule states that an Iqama can be transferred two times, but some exceptions and limitations apply.

  1. Iqama Violations or Absence from Work: If you have violated the terms of your Iqama or have been absent from work without valid reasons, your transfer request may be denied.
  2. Employer Default: If your employer fails to comply with government regulations, such as non-payment of wages or illegal employment practices, you may have the right to transfer your Iqama, even beyond the two-time limit. In such cases, a complaint must be lodged with the Ministry of HRSD.
  3. Limited Duration: In some cases, the Saudi government may limit the duration for which you can hold an Iqama and restrict the number of times you can transfer it.

When Can You Transfer Your Iqama for the Third Time?

As mentioned earlier, it is typically not allowed to transfer an Iqama more than twice. However, certain conditions allow for a third transfer, such as:

  1. Absence of Previous Violations: If you have maintained a clean record without any violations of employment laws, the Ministry may approve a third transfer.
  2. Special Cases: If the first or second transfer was due to exceptional circumstances such as employer bankruptcy, unlawful actions by the employer, or unfair treatment, the Ministry may grant permission for a third transfer.
  3. Sponsorship-related Issues: If there are serious issues regarding your sponsor’s ability to support you, such as lack of finances or inability to provide work, you may be able to request an exemption for additional transfers.

How Long Does an Iqama Transfer Take?

The time required for an Iqama transfer varies. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The following factors affect the timeline:

  • Employer Approval: How quickly your current employer approves the transfer.
  • Ministry Processing Time: The speed with which the Ministry of HRSD processes your application.
  • Documentation Completeness: If all required documents are complete, the transfer may be quicker.

Tips for a Smooth Iqama Transfer

To make the Iqama transfer process smoother and faster, consider the following tips:

  1. Clear Communication with Your Employer: Communicate effectively with your employer and ensure they understand the process and timelines. If they delay in providing consent, it can cause unnecessary delays.
  2. Stay Compliant: Make sure your Iqama is valid and there are no fines or violations before applying for the transfer.
  3. Prepare All Documents: Ensure that all required documents, such as your passport, Iqama details, and employment contracts, are ready for submission.
  4. Consult Legal Help: If you are facing issues with your employer or the transfer process, consider consulting with a legal professional familiar with Saudi labor law.

Conclusion: Iqama Transfer Rules.

In conclusion, the question of how many times you can transfer an Iqama has a clear answer: typically, you can transfer an Iqama up to two times under standard circumstances. After that, you may need special permission from the Ministry of HRSD, especially in cases of employer misconduct or other legal issues. If you are planning to change employers in Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to understand the regulations, ensure compliance with the law, and follow the proper procedures to avoid any complications.

By staying informed and proactive, expatriates in Saudi Arabia can ensure a smooth transition between employers while maintaining their residency status in the Kingdom.

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