Last updated: September 2026 – updated for the Qiwa transfer process and eligibility rules.
Being an expatriate in Saudi Arabia, you should understand how to check the status of your iqama transfer of your checks. Whether your sponsors are relocating, you are changing employers, or you simply wish to keep track of your transfer request, keeping pace would save you time, prevent litigation, and make the transfer an easy affair.
In this guide, I will show you exactly how to check the Iqama transfer status online using:
- Via MHRSD
- Via Absher
You will get to know about the step-by-step instructions, tips to avoid most of the common errors, and how to easily tell whether your Iqama transfer request is approved, pending or rejected.
What is an Iqama Transfer?
The official procedure in Saudi Arabia is to check the iqama transfer status, where an expatriate worker may change his/her employer (Kafeel). Your Iqama, the residency permit, will be annexed to the individual who is sponsoring you, and any change in occupation or sponsorship must be approved by the Saudi authorities.
Methods to check the iqama transfer number
Most employer changes now run through Qiwa, the labour ministry’s platform. Your new employer sends the offer there, you accept it from your own Qiwa account, and your current employer is then notified. Your Qiwa dashboard is the quickest place to see where things stand. Absher becomes useful later, once the move is complete and your Iqama shows the new employer. If you’ve been with your first Saudi employer for less than a year, expect the request to be blocked unless an exception applies.
Method 1: Through the MHRSD Website
- Visit the MHRSD Website
- Go to the official MHRSD website: https://www.mlsd.gov.sa.
- Access Electronic Services
- From the homepage, choose “Electronic Services” (الخدمات الإلكترونية) to view all available options for expatriates.
- Select Transfer of Expatriate Worker Service
- Look for “Transfer of Expatriate Worker Service” (خدمة نقل خدمة عامل وافد). Since the 2021 labour reforms, most transfer requests are handled on the Qiwa platform, so if nothing shows here, log in to your Qiwa individual account – that’s where your request and its status appear.
- Enter Your Iqama Number and Verification Code
- Enter your Iqama number and captcha authentication number where required.
- Click on Search (بحث)
- After clicking search, the status of the transfer request will be displayed. This could include:
- Under Process: Your request is under consideration.
Read Also: Avoid Late Fees: How to Pay STC Bill Online Fast (2026)
Method 2: Through the Absher Website
Another government-supplied official portal called the Absher portal will help you monitor your transfer online. Here is the way I show you how to use it effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the Absher Portal
Open your browser and go to https://www.absher.sa.
- Log in to Your Account
Log in using your Iqama number/User ID and password.
- Navigate to “Passport Services”
From your dashboard, go to:
the inquiries section of your dashboard (menu names change from time to time).
- Select Sponsorship Transfer Inquiry
Click on “Sponsorship Transfer Inquiry” to see details regarding your current sponsor (Kafeel) and the status of your transfer request. - Understanding Absher Transfer Sta
Read More: How to Update Iqama in SNB Online
Tips for a Smooth Iqama Transfer
To make your request to transfer go smoothly, I want you to consider these practical tips:
- Verify Documents: Ensure all the documents provided to the transfer are correct.
- Check Eligibility: You normally need one full year with your first employer in Saudi Arabia, unless an exception applies (for example, three months of unpaid salary).
- Follow Up: Once a month, check the status online to prevent surprises.
- Contact Support: In case of errors or ambiguity of statuses on the online platforms, speak to MHRSD or the Absher support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I ensure that the check iqama transfer status has been done?
It is available online in MHRSD and Absher under your Iqama number.
Duration of approval?
Once you accept on Qiwa, your current employer is notified and a notice period may apply, so expect anything from a few days to several weeks.
What does “Pending” mean?
The authorities are still looking into your request.
What would happen in the case of rejection of my transfer?
Get in touch with your existing sponsor or HR and clear up the problem, and reapply.
Read More: Check SIMs on Your Iqama (2026)
After the transfer goes through, it’s worth confirming the details on your record. You can check your Iqama expiry date online, and if your new job title doesn’t match, see our guide to changing your Iqama profession. Worried about an absconding report from the old employer? Here’s how to run an Iqama Huroob status check.
Final Words
On Absher, MHRSD, one simply needs to verify the transfer of the Iqama through the internet. Checking your transfer every now and then will mean that your request will be approved or pending and even rejected in good time, there will be no legal complications, and your job is not lost.
You should never forget to ensure that your documents and account information are up-to-date in case you are in a position to avail you a hassle-free transfer.
