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A Letter Request For Transfer is a formal document that initiates the employment transfer process in Saudi Arabia. Under the Saudi Labor Law (Royal Decree No. M/51), employees must follow specific procedures when seeking to change employers, making this letter a critical first step in ensuring legal compliance throughout the transfer process.

When do you need this document?

You need this letter when seeking to transfer your employment from your current employer to a new employer in Saudi Arabia. This applies whether you are a Saudi national looking for better career opportunities or an expatriate worker requiring sponsorship transfer under the kafala system. The letter is mandatory when initiating discussions with your current employer about releasing you from your contract, when applying for positions with prospective employers who require proof of your transfer intent, or when submitting documentation to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. Expatriate workers particularly need this document when requesting transfer of their Iqama (residence permit) sponsorship, as it demonstrates formal communication with the current employer regarding the intended employment change.

Key legal considerations

Your transfer request must comply with several critical legal requirements under Saudi employment law. You must respect the notice period specified in your employment contract, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days depending on your position and contract terms. The Wage Protection System (WPS) requires that all financial obligations between you and your current employer are settled before transfer approval. If you are an expatriate worker, your transfer is subject to Nitaqat (Saudization) program requirements, where the new employer must meet Saudi national employment quotas to sponsor foreign workers. Your current employer has the legal right to approve or deny your transfer request, particularly if you have not completed your contract term or if there are pending obligations. Additionally, any training costs or recruitment expenses advanced by your current employer may need to be repaid as specified in your original employment agreement.

Legal requirements in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's employment transfer process is governed by specific MHRSD regulations that you must follow precisely. Your letter must include mandatory elements such as your full employment details, current employer information, reason for transfer, and acknowledgment of contractual obligations. For expatriate workers, the General Directorate of Passports requires additional documentation including a valid Iqama, passport copies, and proof of the new employer's eligibility to sponsor foreign workers. The new employer must obtain pre-approval from MHRSD and demonstrate compliance with Saudization quotas before your transfer can proceed. Your current employer must provide a no-objection certificate and confirm that all financial dues are cleared through the WPS system. The entire process typically takes 2-4 weeks for Saudi nationals and 4-8 weeks for expatriates, depending on the completeness of documentation and employer cooperation.