kafil

Kafil is an Arabic term meaning guarantor or sponsor. The word derives from the root that yields kafalah, the concept of guarantee or surety. In Islamic law and finance, kafalah denotes a contract in which one party (the kafil) guarantees the performance or payment of another party’s obligation. The kafil undertakes responsibility to ensure that a debt is paid, a contract is fulfilled, or a person’s welfare or obligations are met, depending on the nature of the agreement. The liability of the kafil is typically triggered if the principal party fails to meet the obligation, and the exact scope can vary by jurisdiction and interpretation of Sharia.

In contemporary usage, kafalah is widely seen in sponsorship arrangements, especially in the Gulf states under the labor visa system. In this context, the kafil (sponsor) provides legal sponsorship for a migrant worker, taking on regulatory responsibilities related to the worker’s stay, wages, and compliance with local laws. The precise duties and protections associated with being a kafil differ across countries and reform efforts, and debates often center on balancing regulatory oversight with workers’ rights.

The term is also used as a given name or surname in Muslim communities, appearing in transliterations such as kafil or kafeel. The meaning and implications of the term therefore depend on the cultural, legal, and religious setting in which it is used.

See also: Kafala, Kafalah, Surety, Guarantor.