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How to Check Huroob Status in Saudi Arabia
If you’re an expatriate working in Saudi Arabia, understanding your Huroob status is crucial. Huroob refers to a legal term in Saudi labor law, meaning “absconding” or “runaway.” It is a designation applied by sponsors (kafeels) when they claim a worker has violated their contract by leaving their job or failing to return after a leave.
This blog will explain what Huroob status is, its consequences, and step-by-step instructions on how to check your Huroob status online.
What is Huroob Status?
The term “Huroob” translates to “escape” in Arabic. It is used in Saudi Arabia’s labor and immigration systems to label expatriates who:
- Fail to show up for work without valid reason.
- Leave their workplace or employer without permission.
- Overstay their leave duration.
When a sponsor reports Huroob status to the Saudi authorities, the worker is considered in violation of residency and labor laws, which can lead to serious legal consequences.
Implications of Huroob Status
Having a Huroob status can severely impact an individual’s life in Saudi Arabia:
- Legal Risks: Individuals with Huroob are subject to arrest, detention, and deportation.
- Ban on Re-entry: Once deported under Huroob, a worker may face a ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia for years or permanently.
- Inability to Work: Huroob status voids the worker’s legal ability to work in the Kingdom.
- Limited Access to Services: Workers cannot access basic services like healthcare or banking under this status.
How to Check Huroob Status
The Ministry of Interior (MOI) in Saudi Arabia offers an online system for checking Huroob status. Here are the steps to verify your status using various methods:
Method 1: Using Absher Portal
The Absher platform is the official portal for managing residency and labor-related queries in Saudi Arabia.
- Log in to Absher
- Visit Absher Portal.
- Select either Individual or Business depending on your account type.
- Enter your username and password, and complete the OTP verification process.
- Navigate to “Employment Status”
- Click on “My Services” or “Inquiries” in the dashboard.
- Select “Iqama Information” or “Resident Status”.
- Check Your Status
- Enter your Iqama number or border number as requested.
- Review the displayed information. If you see a “Huroob” designation, your status is marked as absconded.
Method 2: Ministry of Labor Website
If you do not have an Absher account, you can check your status via the Ministry of Labor website.
- Visit the Ministry of Labor Portal
- Go to the official Ministry of Labor website.
- Search for Your Employment Status
- Enter your Iqama number or passport number in the appropriate field.
- Verify the CAPTCHA and submit your query.
- Review Your Employment Details
- Your status will be displayed on the next screen. If your sponsor has reported you as absconding, it will indicate “Huroob.”
Method 3: Contacting Customer Support
If online methods are unavailable, you can directly contact the Ministry of Interior or Ministry of Labor customer service via phone or visit their offices for assistance. Ensure you have your Iqama number and passport handy.
What to Do If You Have a Huroob Status
If your status is marked as Huroob, it’s essential to act quickly:
- Communicate with Your Sponsor
- Contact your sponsor to discuss and potentially resolve the issue. Sometimes, misunderstandings or errors lead to Huroob being filed.
- Seek Legal Assistance
- Engage with a lawyer or labor consultant experienced in Saudi law to explore your options.
- Surrender Voluntarily
- If your status cannot be resolved, surrendering to the nearest deportation center may help avoid prolonged detention or additional penalties.
- Check for Amnesty Programs
- Saudi Arabia occasionally announces amnesty programs allowing absconding workers to leave without penalties. Monitor news updates for such opportunities.
Preventing Huroob Status
To avoid getting Huroob status in Saudi Arabia:
- Maintain Clear Communication: Always inform your sponsor of your whereabouts, especially during leave.
- Follow Residency Laws: Ensure your Iqama is always valid and renewed on time.
- Avoid Overstaying Leave: Return to your job within the agreed period.
- Keep Documents Updated: Ensure your employment contract and other documentation are in order.
Preventing Huroob Status
To avoid getting Huroob status in Saudi Arabia:
- Maintain Clear Communication: Always inform your sponsor of your whereabouts, especially during leave.
- Follow Residency Laws: Ensure your Iqama is always valid and renewed on time.
- Avoid Overstaying Leave: Return to your job within the agreed period.
- Keep Documents Updated: Ensure your employment contract and other documentation are in order.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check your Huroob status is vital for every expatriate working in Saudi Arabia. The legal and personal consequences of being marked as absconding can be severe, making it essential to address the situation promptly.
By using platforms like Absher and the Ministry of Labor website, you can easily check your status and take necessary actions. Always stay informed about your employment and residency status to avoid complications.
