Hiring a domestic worker who is already in Kuwait under another employer's sponsorship — known as a local transfer — is faster and cheaper than international recruitment. This guide covers the complete PAM transfer process for 2026, including the updated conditions following Kuwait's labor reforms.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 🌐 Platform | Ashal — e-portal.manpower.gov.kw |
| ⏱️ Processing Time | 1–2 weeks |
| 💰 Transfer Fee | KWD 150 + additional transfer fees |
| ✅ Min Service Required | 1 year (with employer approval) |
| 📞 PAM Helpline | 1884880 |
📋 Transfer Conditions (Updated 2021+)
📋 Following Administrative Decision No. 375 of 2021, domestic workers can transfer after just 1 year of service (previously 3 years), provided the current employer's approval is obtained.
- ✅ Worker must have completed at least 1 year with current employer
- ✅ Current employer must provide written consent
- ✅ New employer must meet PAM eligibility requirements
- ✅ New employment contract signed and registered via Ashal
- ✅ Worker's Civil ID and residency must be valid
💰 Transfer Costs 2026
| Fee Component | Amount (KWD) |
|---|---|
| New work permit fee | KWD 150 |
| Transfer processing fee | KWD 50–100 |
| Health insurance (new) | KWD 50–100 |
| Civil ID update | KWD 5–10 |
| Estimated Total | KWD 255–360 |
Significantly cheaper than international recruitment (KWD 628–1,203). Local transfers complete in 1–2 weeks.
🔄 How to Transfer — Step by Step
Agree on salary, working hours, rest days, and accommodation.
Current sponsor provides written consent through their Ashal account — this is the critical step.
Visit e-portal.manpower.gov.kw and select "Transfer of Domestic Worker Sponsorship".
Enter worker's Civil ID, upload consent letter and new contract. Pay fees electronically.
PAM processes the transfer within 1–2 weeks. Both parties receive notification.
After approval, update the worker's Civil ID (PACI) to reflect the new sponsor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays the KWD 150 transfer fee?
By law, the new employer pays all transfer fees. Charging the domestic worker for transfer fees is illegal under Law No.68/2015.
Can a domestic worker transfer without their employer's consent?
Not easily — employer consent is still required for standard transfers. In cases of documented abuse, non-payment, or serious violations, PAM can facilitate a transfer without consent following an investigation.
What happens to the worker's gratuity during a transfer?
The previous employer must settle all dues including end-of-service gratuity for completed service before the transfer. The new contract starts fresh with the new employer.
Can I transfer a worker who just arrived in Kuwait?
No — the standard requirement is 1 year of service before transfer is permitted. Exceptions require PAM approval.
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📌 Source: Kuwait PAM — Public Authority for Manpower — Updated 2026. Always verify at manpower.gov.kw