Many residents and expatriate workers in Saudi Arabia need to change their sponsor’s status during their stay. The reason could be an employee’s transfer from one company to another, a change in the establishment’s activity, or even a shift in the sponsor’s status from an individual to an establishment and vice versa. In this article, we explain everything related to modifying the sponsor’s status in Saudi Arabia according to the regulations of the Ministry of Interior (Passports) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
What does modifying the sponsor’s status mean?
Modifying the sponsor’s status means changing the legal status of the sponsor from one type to another. For example:
- Changing the sponsor from an individual to an establishment (company)
- Changing the sponsor from an establishment to an individual
- Changing the status of the establishment itself (e.g., from a sole proprietorship to a company)
- Modifying the sponsor’s data related to the type of activity
This service is important because it regulates the worker’s status and prevents violations.
Cases that require modifying the sponsor’s status
1. Transferring the worker from individual sponsorship to company sponsorship
If you are sponsored by an individual (such as a private driver or domestic worker) and want to work for a company, you must first modify the sponsor’s status.
2. Changing the establishment’s activity
If the company that sponsors you changes its activity or transforms from a sole proprietorship into a limited liability company, the sponsor’s status automatically changes upon updating the commercial registration.
3. Transferring sponsorship with a change in status
In cases where sponsorship is transferred from one sponsor to another with a difference in the sponsor’s type (individual → company or vice versa), you need to submit a request to modify the sponsor’s status.
Conditions for modifying the sponsor’s status
- Valid residency — The worker’s residency must be valid
- No violations — Neither the sponsor nor the worker should have traffic or residency violations
- Current sponsor’s approval — Required when transferring sponsorship with a status modification
- Contract documentation — The contract between the worker and the new establishment must be documented on the Qiwa platform
- No absconding report — The worker should not have an absconding report registered against them
- Payment of fees — Pay the modification fees if applicable
- Medical insurance — Valid medical insurance under the name of the new establishment
Steps to modify the sponsor’s status
Method 1: Through the Qiwa platform
- Go to the Qiwa website (qiwa.sa) or open the app
- Log in with the establishment’s account
- Select labor services → Modify sponsor’s status
- Select the worker whose status needs to be modified
- Upload the required documents
- Confirm the request and wait for approval
Method 2: Through the Absher platform
- Go to Absher for individuals (absher.sa)
- Select passport services
- Choose to modify the sponsor’s status
- Complete the information and upload the documents
- Pay the fees if applicable
Method 3: Through the Passports office
You can visit the Passports office or the expatriate department in your area and submit the request manually if the electronic procedure is not possible.
Required documents
- A copy of the valid residency
- A copy of the passport
- A copy of the commercial registration (for establishments)
- Social insurance subscription certificate (for employees)
- A work contract documented on the Qiwa platform
- Approval from the current sponsor (in case of transfer with status modification)
Processing time and fees
The processing time for a sponsor status modification request is usually 3 to 15 working days, depending on the type of modification and the completeness of the documents. Fees vary based on the type of modification and the number of workers involved. It is advisable to inquire about the updated fees through the Qiwa platform or the Passports office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I modify the sponsor’s status while on a visit visa?
A: No, modifying the sponsor’s status is only possible for holders of valid residency permits.
Q: Does my residency expire if I change the sponsor’s status?
A: No, the sponsor’s status changes, but the residency remains valid as long as its validity has not expired.
Q: Does modifying the sponsor’s status require approval from the old sponsor?
Q: If transferring sponsorship with a change in status, yes. But if changing the nature of the establishment itself, it is not required.
Q: Can I proceed with modifying the sponsor’s status completely electronically?
A: Yes, through the Qiwa or Absher platforms without reviewing the Passport Office in most cases.
Q: How many times can I modify the sponsor’s status?
A: Legally, there is no specific limit, but it is preferable to ensure there is no conflict with residency conditions.
Conclusion
Modifying the sponsor’s status is one of the important services that helps residents and workers organize their affairs according to changes in their work or their sponsor’s activity. The service is widely available electronically through Absher and Qiwa, which facilitates matters and saves time. If you have a specific inquiry about your case, it is best to contact the Passport Office or the Ministry of Human Resources to obtain an accurate response.
