How to change photo in Iqama is a legal and official procedure required for all residents in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This service enables residents to update their personal photo to match their current appearance, ensuring accurate official identification and full compliance with Saudi labor and Jawazat regulations.
By following the authorized steps on the Absher and Jawazat platforms, the process can be completed efficiently and lawfully, whether the update is for general purposes, security verification, or professional requirements.
المحتويات
How to Change Photo in Iqama Online
The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia allows residents to update their personal photo in the Iqama. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change Iqama photo in Absher following official procedures:
- Access the Absher.
- Select Absher for Individuals from the main page.
- Navigate to Passports and then click on Update Resident Passport Data.
- Click on Start Using the Service.
- Choose the appropriate request type for changing the personal photo.
- Enter all required information accurately, including:
- Full name of the applicant
- Passport number
- Passport issue and expiry dates
- Enter the visual verification code in the designated field.
- Read the terms and conditions carefully, then click Agree to accept them.
- Confirm the request by clicking Confirm after reviewing the entered data.
- Visit the Passports Department to meet the designated officer.
- Enter all required information in the Passport Update Form.
- Complete the official photograph procedure for updating the personal photo.
- Receive the new passport within three working days from the date of submitting the request.
- Following these steps ensures that the request to change the personal photo in the Iqama is completed legally and officially, in accordance with the regulations adopted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Learn about : Labour iqama fees
Iqama Photo Change Fee
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has established standardized fees for the Iqama photo change service: based on current Fee Structure (2026)
- Standard Photo Update: 200 SAR
- Child Photo Update: 100 SAR
- Express Processing: Additional 50 SAR
- Multiple Family Members: Discounted rates may apply
All fees must be paid during the appointment or through the official payment channels to ensure the request is processed without delays.
Reasons for Updating Your Iqama Photo
The Iqama photo serves as the primary official identification for residents in Saudi Arabia. It is essential that the image accurately reflects the holder’s current appearance. The following are the main legal and practical reasons for updating the Iqama photo:
- Physical Changes:
Significant changes in weight, facial hair, or hairstyle may render the existing photo outdated. The Jawazat authorities require that the Iqama photo correspond to the resident’s current appearance for identification and security purposes. - Photo Quality Issues:
Over time, the original photo may become unclear, damaged, or faded. A clear and high-quality image is legally required to ensure proper identification in official transactions. - Age-Related Changes:
For minors and children, physical appearance can change rapidly. Therefore, Iqama photo updates for young residents are often required more frequently to maintain accurate identification. - Professional or Official Requirements:
Certain occupations or official procedures may necessitate an updated Iqama photo that accurately represents the individual’s current professional appearance.
Ensuring that the Iqama photo is current and accurate is a legal obligation for all residents and is essential for compliance with Saudi regulations.
Required Documents for How to Change Photo in Iqama
Before starting the process of how to change photo in iqama, the following documents must be prepared:
- Valid Iqama card of the applicant.
- Valid passport with no expiration.
- Recent passport-size photographs that meet Jawazat specifications.
- National ID (if available).
- Any documents related to family visas, if applicable.
Originals must be presented and verified for accuracy against official records. Ensuring these documents are ready in advance will help complete how to change photo in iqama legally and without delays.
Prerequisites Before Starting Change Photo in Iqama Online
Before proceeding with how to change photo in Iqama, make sure you have the following requirements ready:
- An active Absher account (individual account, not family account).
- A smartphone or computer with reliable internet access.
- A recent photograph that meets Jawazat specifications.
- Your current Iqama details.
- A valid payment method (credit card or SADAD) to cover any applicable fees.
Meeting these prerequisites contributes to completing how to change photo in Iqama smoothly, in full legal compliance, and with minimal risk of delays or rejection.
Learn about : How to Know If My Iqama Is Transferable
Conclusion
How to change photo in iqama is a legal obligation to ensure the validity of official identification and compliance with Kingdom regulations. By consulting the Etqan Law Firm, residents can receive professional support without risk of delays or rejection.
FAQ:
Can I change my iqama photo online?
Yes, you can initiate the request online through Absher, but in some cases you may still need to visit Jawazat to complete biometric verification and photo capture.
What documents are required to change photo in iqama?
You typically need a valid Iqama, passport, updated personal photo meeting official specifications, and a verified Absher account.
How much does it cost to change iqama photo?
The Iqama photo change fee in Saudi Arabia is generally 200 SAR for a standard update and 100 SAR for children, according to the 2026 fee structure. An additional 50 SAR may apply for express processing, with possible discounts for multiple family members. Fees must be paid through official payment channels or during the scheduled appointment to ensure timely processing of the request..
How long does it take to update the iqama photo?
Processing usually takes from a few hours to a few days, depending on appointmen availability and approval procedures by Jawazat.
The Etqan Al Mutamayza Law Firm is ready to provide the essential support you need. You can reach their team at the following mobile numbers: +966543104848
Additionally, feel free to visit our branches located at:
- Jeddah: Al-Aziziyah District, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia)
- Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Street, across from the Kingdom Tower
- Dammam: Al-Ashri’a Street, Al-Badeea, Dammam 32415.