HR Glossary

What is Kafala System (Middle East)?

A sponsorship-based employment framework used in Gulf Cooperation Council countries and parts of the Middle East that ties a migrant worker's legal residency and work authorization to a specific employer (the kafeel or sponsor), restricting the worker's ability to change jobs, leave the country, or negotiate employment terms independently.

Why it matters in hiring

Kafala System (Middle East) comes up whenever teams compare candidates, set policy or report on people data. Getting the definition right keeps decisions consistent, which is the same reason springhire scores every applicant against the same criteria rather than on impression.

Related terms starting with K

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