Master the Iqama in Saudi Arabia Process Step by Step

The iqama in Saudi Arabia is your key to living and working legally in Saudi Arabia. In 2025, new regulations have reshaped how expatriates apply for and maintain their Iqama. Understanding the full Iqama process from how to apply for Iqama in Saudi Arabia, to how to check how to check iqama validity in Saudi Arabia​ and how to check iqama expiry date in Saudi Arabia date is now more essential than ever.

This is especially true given the new Iqama rules in Saudi Arabia and the updated iqama renewal charges in Saudi Arabia that residents must be aware of to stay compliant.

What is Iqama in Saudi Arabia?

The Iqama in Saudi Arabia is an official residency card issued by the Ministry of Interior that allows foreign residents to legally live and work in the Kingdom. It serves as proof of legal status and grants access to essential services such as healthcare, banking, and enrolling children in schools. While an expatriate can enter Saudi Arabia without an Iqama, they cannot access most services or work legally until the card is issued. This makes the Iqama a crucial document for all expatriates living in the country.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has introduced new updates to the Iqama renewal system to simplify and modernize the process. These changes offer more flexibility for residents and are designed to ensure continuous legal residency with fewer disruptions:

• Advance Renewal: Residents can now renew their Iqama up to six months before its expiration date. This early renewal option gives ample time to prepare, reducing the risk of penalties or service interruptions.
• Renewal from Abroad: Expatriates are now allowed to renew their Iqama even while they are outside the Kingdom. This is particularly useful for those who travel frequently or are studying abroad, ensuring that their legal residency remains active without requiring immediate return to Saudi Arabia.

These new Iqama rules in Saudi Arabia reflect the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to enhance administrative services for residents and support the goals of Vision 2030 by creating a more efficient and expat-friendly environment.

Learn More: Understanding The Saudi Green Card: Your Path to Permanent Residency

How to Get Iqama in Saudi Arabia?

Getting the iqama in Saudi Arabia involves several key steps, usually started by the sponsoring employer. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:

1. Company registration: The first step is for the employer to register their company with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. This registration is essential to get approval to hire foreign workers. It’s often best to have a local representative or lawyer handle this step.
2. Visa approval from the Ministry of Investment (MISA): If you’re a business owner or company founder, you’ll need to apply for a visa through MISA. This usually takes around two weeks. For employees, the process may vary depending on the job role and company needs.
3. Visa issuance through the Saudi Embassy: After MISA approves the visa, a visa authorization number is issued, and the visa is then processed by the Saudi Embassy in your home country. You’ll need to provide documents such as educational certificates, a medical report, and biometrics. This part of the process usually takes less than a week.
4. Arrival and medical check-up: Once you arrive in Saudi Arabia, you’re required to undergo a medical examination at an approved clinic. You’ll also need to get medical insurance and activate a local SIM card under your name.
5. Professional Test (if required): If your job falls under the list of technical or vocational professions, you may be required to pass the professional test in Saudi Arabia for iqama​
6. Iqama issuance: After completing all the required steps and submitting the necessary documents, your Iqama will be issued. In some cases, it can be ready on the same day. You can collect it yourself or authorize a Saudi national to pick it up for you.
7. Registering on government e-platforms: After getting your Iqama, you need to register on Saudi e-government platforms such as Absher and Nafath. These systems allow you to access essential services like banking, renting property, and managing other official tasks.

Getting an iqama in Saudi Arabia is a structured process that begins with your employer, involves medical and legal steps, and ends with digital registration for everyday services.

How to Make Insurance for Iqama in Saudi Arabia?

1. Health insurance: is mandatory for issuing or renewing your Iqama—whether for yourself or your dependents.
2. If you’re employed: Your company usually provides insurance automatically. Contact HR for details.
3. If you have dependents (spouse, children, etc.):
   • 1. Visit platforms like Tameeni, Bupa, or Tawuniya.Enter your and your dependents’ details (Iqama number, age, nationality).Choose a suitable plan and pay online.
   • The insurance will automatically be linked to the Iqama system.
4. Check your insurance status:
   1. Go to the CCHI website and enter your Iqama number.

How to Get Dependent Iqama in Saudi Arabia? 

1. Basic Requirements

• The sponsor (main resident) must have a valid Iqama and meet the minimum salary threshold.
• Family members must have entered Saudi Arabia with a family visa or entry stamp.

2. Required Documents

Make sure the following documents are ready, translated into Arabic and officially attested:

• Sponsor’s Iqama and passport copies
• Passports of dependents with entry stamps
• Passport-size photos (white background, 4×6 cm)
• Completed Family Iqama application form
• Marriage certificate (for spouse) and children’s birth certificates
• Proof of valid health insurance
• Medical test results from an approved clinic in Saudi Arabia

3. Medical Test for Dependents

Every dependent must undergo a medical test inside Saudi Arabia, even if they had one abroad. Results are updated in the government system within 2 working days.

4. Pay the Fees

• You have a 90-day grace period to apply without paying dependent fees.
• After that, it’s SAR 400 per dependent per month (~$108), paid annually through SADAD or your bank’s Absher services.

Documents Required for Family Iqama in Saudi Arabia?

When applying for a family iqama in Saudi Arabia, it is essential to prepare a specific set of documents correctly. All documents must be valid, translated into Arabic by an authorized translator, and officially attested as required by Saudi regulations.

The necessary documents include:

• Passports: Original and photocopies of valid passports for all family members.
• Visa application forms: Completed and signed visa application forms for each family member.
• Family Iqama application form: Filled out and signed application form for the Family Iqama.
• Photographs: Recent passport-size photos of each family member, following Saudi specifications.
• Marriage certificate: Original and attested copy of the marriage certificate (if applicable).
• Birth certificates: Original and attested copies of birth certificates for all dependent children.
• Medical reports: Recent medical reports issued by an approved clinic or hospital in Saudi Arabia.
• Employment contract: A copy of the employment contract of the sponsoring employee.
• Housing contract: Proof of appropriate accommodation for the family in Saudi Arabia.
• Payment of fees: Family iqama fees in Saudi Arabia are​ 500 Saudi Riyals annually for each dependent (wife, son, daughter).

Depending on the applicant’s nationality or individual case, additional documents or specific requirements may apply         

Check Out: Understanding the New Kafala System in Saudi Arabia

Types of Iqama in Saudi Arabia

There are 7 types of Iqama in Saudi Arabia, each designed for a specific purpose and governed by different rules that allow holders to live, work, study, or invest in the Kingdom. Here are the types in detail:

• Work Iqama: Issued to foreign workers employed in the private or public sector under a Saudi sponsor.
• Dependent Iqama: Granted to the spouse and children of the primary Iqama holder residing in the Kingdom.
• Student Iqama: Provided to international students enrolled in accredited Saudi universities or educational institutions.
• Investor Iqama: Issued to foreign investors who own businesses or shares in Saudi companies.
• Domestic Worker Iqama: Covers domestic staff such as housemaids, drivers, cooks, nannies, and similar roles.
• Diplomatic/Official Iqama: Granted to diplomats and employees of foreign embassies or official missions.
• Premium Residency:
  • Temporary Premium Residency: Renewable annually with a fixed fee.
  • Permanent Premium Residency: Lifetime residency granted with a one-time fee, offering wide-ranging privileges without the need for a sponsor.

 Iqama Renewal Fees in Saudi Arabia​

For domestic workers and employees in companies or institutions, the cost usually ranges between SAR 600 and SAR 650.

The fees may also differ based on the expatriate’s profession and the number of dependents registered under their sponsorship     

How to Check Iqama Status in Saudi Arabia​?

• Access the official Absher website: Open your browser and go to: https://www.absher.sa
• Select the correct service (Absher Individuals): On the homepage, you’ll see two options: “Absher Individuals” and “Absher Business”.
• Click on “Absher Individuals”, which is meant for residents and citizens.
• Log into your account: On the login page, enter your credentials:
  • Username or Iqama number
  • Your Absher password
  • Then enter the verification code sent to your phone to complete login.
• Access your main dashboard:  After logging in, you’ll be directed to your personal dashboard, which contains various service options.
• Go to your personal information section:  From the dashboard, click on “Personal Information”, which contains all your identity and residency details.
• View your Iqama Information:  Under the personal information tab, select “Iqama Information”, where you’ll find the following:
  • Iqama Status: Whether it is valid or expired.
  • Expiry Date: Displayed in both Hijri and Gregorian calendars.
  • Registered Profession as per the residency system.
  • Nationality as officially recorded.

Conclusion

obtaining iqama in Saudi Arabia is a crucial step for anyone wishing to live and work legally in the Kingdom. Since even a minor mistake in the process can lead to delays or legal complications, we always recommend consulting a trusted legal expert to ensure everything is completed correctly. That’s why we proudly recommend Etqan Law Firm as a reliable and professional option.

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: +96656113776, +966541110440, +966504315333.

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.

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