Kafala System Reforms (Employer Transfer) in UAE
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The traditional kafala (sponsorship) system tied workers to a single employer, making it difficult or impossible to change jobs without the employer's consent. The 2021 Labour Law introduced landmark reforms:
- Job mobility: Workers can now transfer to a new employer without needing their current employer's consent, as long as they serve their contractual notice period (typically 30-90 days) and meet legal requirements.
- No-objection certificate (NOC): The old requirement for an employer's NOC to change jobs has been effectively eliminated for most workers. You can move to a new employer after serving your notice period.
- Work permit transfer: The new employer applies for your work permit through MOHRE, and the transfer is processed directly — the old employer cannot block it.
- Protection during disputes: If you have a labour dispute with your employer, MOHRE can issue a temporary work permit allowing you to work for another employer while the dispute is being resolved.
- Domestic workers: Domestic workers can also transfer employers, but the process is managed through Tadbeer centres rather than MOHRE.
When does it apply?
- You want to change employers within the UAE.
- Your employer is not renewing your contract or you have completed your contractual notice period.
- You are in a labour dispute and need to continue working to support yourself.
What to Do If Your UAE Employer Is Blocking You from Changing Jobs
- Serve your notice period as required by your contract (typically 30-90 days under the 2021 Labour Law).
- Secure a new job offer before your current visa is cancelled — the new employer will handle the work permit transfer through MOHRE.
- Your new employer should apply for your work permit transfer through MOHRE — the process is largely digital.
- If your current employer tries to block the transfer, file a complaint with MOHRE at 600-590000, through the MOHRE smart app, or at any Tasheel service centre.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not leave your job without serving notice — absconding (leaving without following proper procedures) can result in a 1-year labour ban and difficulty getting future UAE visas.
- Do not work for a new employer before the transfer is officially processed through MOHRE — this is considered illegal employment and carries fines for both you and the new employer.
- Do not accept threats from your employer about blocking your transfer or filing an absconding case — the 2021 law protects your right to move, and MOHRE investigates such complaints.
Common Questions
When does it apply — kafala system reforms (employer transfer)?
You want to change employers within the UAE.Your employer is not renewing your contract or you have completed your contractual notice period.You are in a labour dispute and need to continue working to support yourself.
What should I do if my employer in the UAE is refusing to let me transfer to a new employer?
Serve your notice period as required by your contract (typically 30-90 days under the 2021 Labour Law).Secure a new job offer before your current visa is cancelled — the new employer will handle the work permit transfer through MOHRE.Your new employer should apply for your work permit transfer through MOHRE — the process is largely digital.If your current employer tries to block the transfer, file a complaint with MOHRE at 600-590000, through the MOHRE smart app, or at any Tasheel service centre.
What should you NOT do — kafala system reforms (employer transfer)?
Do not leave your job without serving notice — absconding (leaving without following proper procedures) can result in a 1-year labour ban and difficulty getting future UAE visas.Do not work for a new employer before the transfer is officially processed through MOHRE — this is considered illegal employment and carries fines for both you and the new employer.Do not accept threats from your employer about blocking your transfer or filing an absconding case — the 2021 law protects your right to move, and MOHRE investigates such complaints.