Changing your profession in Saudi Arabia is a formal process designed to update an expatriate’s job title on their Iqama (residence permit) to reflect their actual role. This alignment is crucial for legal compliance, smooth residency renewals, and accurate employment records. This guide provides a detailed overview of the profession change process, eligibility requirements, and the key agencies involved, such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) and the Qiwa platform.
Overview of the Saudi Profession Change Process
In Saudi Arabia, expatriates must ensure that the job title listed on their Iqama matches their current job role. The profession change process, overseen by the HRSD, requires applications to be submitted via the Qiwa platform. This update is not only a legal requirement but also supports the Nitaqat Saudization program, ensuring that expatriate employment aligns with national labor standards.
Importance of Aligning Iqama with Job Role
Accurate job titles on Iqamas are essential for maintaining residency status and eligibility to work in Saudi Arabia. A mismatch between the actual role and the Iqama title may lead to fines, restricted work permissions, and difficulties in renewing residency permits. For employers, ensuring that employees’ job titles are updated helps them comply with Saudi labor laws, avoiding potential legal complications.
Key Agencies Involved
Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD)
HRSD is responsible for labor regulations in Saudi Arabia. It sets policies for changing professions, ensuring they align with labor laws and the Nitaqat Saudization program. HRSD’s key roles include:
- Eligibility Criteria: Defining who can apply based on qualifications and job roles.
- Review and Approval: Conducting background checks to verify qualifications.
- Compliance Monitoring: Ensuring alignment with Saudization policies.
Qiwa Platform
Qiwa centralizes employment-related processes for companies and expatriates. It facilitates:
- Online Submission: Employers submit applications digitally, reducing paperwork.
- Document Verification: Ensures compliance with HRSD standards.
- Real-Time Updates: Employers track the progress of applications.
- Regulatory Compliance: Prevents submission of job titles restricted for expatriates.
Absher Platform
Absher, managed by the Ministry of Interior, allows expatriates to:
- Track Status: Monitor profession change requests after employer submission.
- Update Iqama: Reflects new job titles upon approval.
- Manage Residency Details: Ensures all updates align with legal requirements.
Eligibility Requirements for Profession Change
Necessary Qualifications and Certifications
For regulated professions, specific certifications are required:
| Profession | Required Certification |
| Engineering | Saudi Council of Engineers membership |
| Healthcare | License from Saudi Commission for Health Specialties |
| Accounting | SOCPA (Saudi Organization for Certified Public Accountants) certification |
HRSD verifies these certifications before approving applications.
Professions Restricted to Saudi Nationals
Certain professions are reserved for Saudi citizens under the Nitaqat program, including:
- Human Resources Managers
- Receptionists
- Customs Clerks
- Cashiers
- Administrative Roles
Expatriates cannot change their profession to any of these restricted roles.
Conditions for Companies (Platinum or Green Nitaqat Range)
Companies must meet Saudization levels to be eligible for profession changes:
- Platinum Status: Maximum flexibility for profession changes.
- Green Status: Acceptable Saudization level with minor restrictions.
- Red/Yellow Status: Limited or no ability to change professions for expatriates.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Profession
Accessing the Qiwa Platform
- Log In to Qiwa: Employers must log in to submit requests.
- Navigate to Profession Change: Select “Change Profession.”
- Input Employee Details: Enter job-related information.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Include employment verification letters and certifications.
- Review and Submit: Ensure accuracy before submission.
Submitting an Application on Absher
- Log In to Absher: Track profession change status.
- Check Application Status: Under “Iqama Services.”
- Receive Notifications: Get updates on approval or requests for additional documents.
- Pay Fees (if applicable): Some cases may require payment.
Verification and Approval Steps
- HRSD Review: Ensures compliance with qualifications and Saudization laws.
- Approval Notification: Sent via Qiwa and Absher.
- Iqama Update: Reflects the new job title.
- Final Steps: If rejected, address feedback and resubmit if necessary.
Required Documents for Profession Change
Identification and Employment Verification
- Valid Iqama: Proof of residency.
- Passport Copy: Identification verification.
- Employment Contract: Signed by employer and employee.
- Company CR (Commercial Registration): Proof of employer legitimacy.
Professional and Educational Documents
- Degree/Diploma Certificates: Attested for verification.
- Professional License (if applicable): From relevant Saudi regulatory body.
- Experience Letters: Supporting work history.
Employer-Provided Documents
- Company Nitaqat Status Proof: Demonstrates compliance with Saudization.
- Company Authorization Letter: Signed by an authorized representative.
- Chamber of Commerce Attestation: Endorses documents for legal validity.
Iqama Profession Change Fees and Processing Time
Profession Change Fees
- Standard Processing Fee: SAR 1,000 – 2,000 (varies based on profession and company category)
- Additional Attestation Fees: May apply for document verification
- Medical or Licensing Fees: If applicable for specific professions
Processing Time
- Initial HRSD Review: 5-10 business days
- Approval from Qiwa & Absher: 7-14 business days
- Total Estimated Time: 2-4 weeks depending on document verification
Conclusion
Changing an Iqama profession in Saudi Arabia is a structured process that requires careful adherence to HRSD guidelines and proper documentation. Employers and expatriates must ensure compliance with Saudization policies and submit applications through Qiwa and Absher. By following this guide, expatriates can successfully navigate the profession change process while maintaining their legal work status in Saudi Arabia.
Let Our Recruitment Experts Simplify Your Iqama Profession Change!
Handling the Iqama profession change process in Saudi Arabia can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our experienced recruitment agency in Pakistan for Saudi Arabia specializes in assisting professionals with job placements that align with their skills and qualifications, ensuring a smooth transition. We help you find the right employer, comply with Saudization policies, and complete all necessary documentation through Qiwa and Absher.
Contact us today for expert guidance and hassle-free job opportunities in Saudi Arabia!
