If you want to hire a domestic worker who is already in Saudi Arabia under another employer's sponsorship, you can arrange a local sponsorship transfer via Musaned. This is faster and cheaper than international recruitment. Here's the complete 2026 guide.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 🌐 Platform | Musaned — musaned.com.sa |
| ⏱️ Processing Time | 3–7 working days |
| 💰 Transfer Fee | SAR 2,000 (approximate) |
| ✅ Iqama Update Required | Yes — within 3 months |
| 📞 MLSD | 19911 |
📋 Conditions for Transfer
- ✅ Current employer must provide written consent (release)
- ✅ Worker must have valid Iqama (or in renewal period)
- ✅ No outstanding violations or travel bans against the worker
- ✅ New employer must meet MLSD sponsorship eligibility requirements
- ✅ New employment contract signed and registered via Musaned
💡 Saudi Labour Reform Update: Saudi Arabia's labour reforms allow workers in some categories to transfer without NOC after 1 year. For domestic workers specifically, employer consent is still typically required. Check the latest rules at musaned.com.sa.
💰 Transfer Costs 2026
| Fee Component | Amount (SAR) |
|---|---|
| Sponsorship transfer fee | SAR 2,000 |
| Iqama transfer/update | SAR 500–1,200 |
| New health insurance | SAR 400–1,000 |
| Medical exam (if expired) | SAR 200–400 |
| Estimated Total | SAR 3,100–4,600 |
Much cheaper than international recruitment (SAR 7,700–21,300). Local transfers are usually completed in days, not weeks.
🔄 How to Transfer — Step by Step
Discuss and agree on salary, working hours, rest days and accommodation before proceeding.
The current sponsor must provide a written release/consent through their Absher or Musaned account.
Visit musaned.com.sa and select "Transfer of Domestic Worker Sponsorship".
Enter the worker's Iqama number, upload documents and pay the transfer fee.
Musaned generates the new MLSD employment contract which both parties must accept.
After approval, update the worker's Iqama to your sponsorship through Absher — must be done within 3 months.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays the SAR 2,000 transfer fee?
By law, the new employer pays all transfer fees. Charging the domestic worker for sponsorship transfer is illegal.
How long does a local transfer take in Saudi Arabia?
Once all documents are submitted correctly via Musaned, most transfers are approved within 3–7 working days.
Can I transfer a maid who just arrived in Saudi Arabia?
Generally, domestic workers should complete a minimum period (usually 1 year) before transfer. Contact MLSD at 19911 for specific cases.
What if the old employer refuses to release the worker?
If the old employer refuses without valid reason, the worker can file a complaint with MLSD. Recent Saudi reforms have improved workers' rights to change employers in cases of abuse or contract violations.
🏠 Looking to Hire a Domestic Worker in Saudi Arabia?
GCC Domestic connects families across Saudi Arabia with MLSD-verified domestic worker agencies via Musaned. Browse packages, compare workers, and hire legally.
📌 Source: Musaned — Saudi Arabia MLSD — Updated 2026. Always verify at musaned.com.sa