Saudi Arabia’s Iqama (Residence Permit) is a mandatory identification card issued to foreign workers and residents, granting them legal status in the Kingdom. Whether you’re a new expatriate or an existing resident, understanding the Iqama id process, renewal, validity, and rules is crucial for a smooth stay in Saudi Arabia.
What is an Iqama?
The Iqama is a 10-digit residency ID card issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) through the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat).
It serves as your official identification and is required for:
Employment & Work Permits
Banking & Financial Transactions
SIM Card Registration
Medical & Health Insurance
Government Services (Absher, GOSI, etc.)
Renting Property & Utility Connections
Key Benefits of Iqama ID in Saudi Arabia
Legal Residency & Work Authorization
Banking & Financial Services
Government & Legal Service
SIM Card & Internet Services
Housing & Utilities
Healthcare & Insurance
Travel & Visa Benefits
Business & Investment Opportunities
How to Apply for an Iqama ID in Saudi Arabia
Obtaining an Iqama (residence permit) is a crucial step for expatriates planning to live and work in Saudi Arabia. The process is managed by your sponsor (employer) and involves several stages. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps:
Step 1: Secure a Sponsor (Employer)
- To apply for an Iqama, you must have a valid job offer from a Saudi-based employer.
- The employer acts as your sponsor and is responsible for handling your work permit and residency process.
Step 2: Employer Applies for a Block Visa
- Your employer must obtain a block visa approval from the Ministry of Labor and Social Development (MLSD).
- This approval allows companies to hire foreign workers and issue work visas.
Step 3: Obtain a Visa Authorization Number & Power of Attorney
- After receiving block visa approval, the employer requests a visa authorization number from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
- A power of attorney is also issued, enabling the employer to proceed with the work visa application.
Step 4: Work Visa Processing & Medical Examination
- The employer submits the work visa application along with required documents to the authorities.
- You must undergo a medical examination at an approved clinic, and the results will determine your fitness for work.
- Your medical report status can be checked via the Ministry of Health (MOH) website.
Step 5: Arrival in Saudi Arabia & Work Permit Application
- Once your work visa is approved, you can travel to Saudi Arabia and begin employment.
- Within 90 days of arrival, your employer must submit an application for your work permit and Iqama to the Ministry of Labor.
- If you need to leave Saudi Arabia before receiving your Iqama, you must obtain an exit and re-entry permit.
Step 6: Issuance of Iqama ID
- Upon approval, your Iqama ID is issued, containing your personal details, residency status, and employer information.
- This card serves as your official residency permit and must be renewed periodically.
Family Sponsorship After Receiving Iqama
- Once you obtain your Iqama, you can sponsor family members to join you in Saudi Arabia.
- While you will be their official sponsor, your employer may assist in the application process.
Securing an Iqama is a mandatory step for expatriates working in Saudi Arabia. Ensuring that all documents, medical checks, and approvals are completed on time can help avoid delays. Always check for any updates in regulations to stay compliant.
Processing Time: Generally, the Iqama is issued within 7–14 days after biometric registration.
How to Check Your Iqama Number & Status?
You can easily verify the status and expiry date of your Iqama ID online using either the Ministry of Labour (MoL) portal or the Absher platform.
For a detailed step-by-step guide, check out our comprehensive article on Iqama check
Iqama Validity & Renewal Process
Iqama Validity:
- The standard Iqama validity is one year, but it can be renewed annually.
- Check your Iqama expiry date via Absher or through your employer.
Iqama Renewal Process:
Saudi Arabian Employer Expenses & Iqama Renewal Fees
The type of employer and supplementary work permit costs affect the cost of renewing an Iqama. These fees are usually covered for employees of large firms. The breakdown consists of:
The maximum fee for renewing an Iqama is SAR 650 (EUR 137).
Permit to Work (Maktab e Amal) Fee: SAR 8,400 (EUR 1,920) to SAR 9,600 (EUR 2,195) is the range.
The average cost of health insurance is SAR 500 (€114).
Medium-sized to large businesses spend about SAR 10,000 (EUR 2,286) a year on each foreign worker.
Dependent Fee (SAR 400 per dependent per month, if applicable)
Iqama Renewal Confirmation – Check via Absher.
Iqama Fees & Penalties
Iqama id Renewal Fees:
✔️ SAR 600 (Standard Iqama renewal fee)
✔️ SAR 500 per dependent per month (for family-sponsored expats)
Late Renewal Penalties:
🚨 First Delay: SAR 500 fine
🚨 Second Delay: SAR 1,000 fine
🚨 Third Delay: Possible deportation
Iqama Transfer & Exit Procedures
Transfer to a New Employer (Naqal Kafala)
If changing jobs, your Iqama must be transferred to the new employer:
🔹 Current employer’s approval required (unless contract allows transfer).
🔹 New employer submits transfer request via MOL portal.
🔹 Once approved, the Iqama is updated with the new sponsor details.
Exit & Final Exit Visa
If leaving Saudi Arabia permanently:
✔️ Your employer must apply for a Final Exit Visa.
✔️ Settle all pending bills & fines before departure.
✔️ Return the Iqama card to Jawazat before exiting.
7. Important Iqama Guidelines
🔹 Always carry your Iqama – Fines apply if you fail to present it upon request.
🔹 Ensure timely renewal to avoid penalties or legal issues.
🔹 Update personal details (name, job title, marital status) via Jawazat.
🔹 Keep your Absher account active for Iqama-related services.
🔹 If lost, report your missing Iqama to authorities within 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
Your Iqama is your legal identity in Saudi Arabia, essential for daily life and government services. Staying informed about Iqama id issuance, renewal, and penalties ensures a hassle-free experience as an expatriate.
