Updated: 9 April 2025, 10:34 am
|||What is Iqama?
Iqama is the official residency permit for expatriates in Saudi Arabia, allowing them to live and work legally in the country. It is required for accessing essential services like banking, healthcare, and education.
Renewing your Iqama on time is crucial to avoid fines, legal issues, or even deportation. Fortunately, the process has become simpler with online platforms like Absher and Muqeem, offering flexible renewal options and a 90-day grace period.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Iqama renewal, including requirements, costs, and a step-by-step process.
Want to learn more? Explore the different types of residencies in Saudi Arabia and the conditions for each one.
Latest Updates on Iqama Renewal
- Iqama Renewal Allowed Despite Family Member’s Absence: As of April 2025, Saudi authorities now allow Iqama renewal even if some dependents are outside the Kingdom—provided the head of the household remains in Saudi Arabia. This change addresses common situations like family travel, education, or medical treatment abroad. Additionally, expats can now extend exit and re-entry visas for family members overseas entirely online via the Absher and SADAD platforms, removing the need for in-person procedures.
- Flexible Iqama Renewal Options: Expatriates in Saudi Arabia can now choose to renew their Iqama on a quarterly, biannual, or annual basis. This flexibility helps residents better manage their finances and align renewals with their other commitments.
- 90-Day Grace Period: A new 90-day grace period allows expats to renew their Iqama after its expiration without incurring fines during this time, providing more breathing room for timely renewal.
- Digital Iqama: The introduction of a digital Iqama, accessible via the Absher platform, simplifies residency management. Expats can now conveniently access and carry their Iqama through their smartphones, eliminating the need for a physical card.
Eligibility for Iqama Renewal in Saudi Arabia
To renew an Iqama in Saudi Arabia, applicants must be employed by an employer officially registered with the Ministry of Labor. Additionally, their records should be clear of any outstanding fines, violations, or unpaid penalties. A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining is also required at the time of renewal.
Documents Required for Iqama Renewal in Saudi Arabia
To successfully renew your Iqama, make sure you have the following:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity at the time of renewal.
- Active Medical Insurance: Expatriates must maintain valid health insurance, which must be renewed if expired before applying.
- Clear Traffic Record: All outstanding traffic fines should be settled prior to initiating the renewal process.
- Paid Government Fees: The necessary Iqama renewal fees, including work permit charges and any penalties for delays, must be paid by either the employer or the resident.
Iqama Renewal Process in Saudi Arabia
Step 1: Access the Absher Platform
The Absher platform is the Saudi government’s official portal for various services, including Iqama renewal. If you haven’t registered yet, you’ll need to create an account.
- Visit the official Absher website.
- Log in using your credentials.
- From the dashboard, select “My Services”.
Step 2: Choose the “Renew Iqama” Option
After logging in, go to the “Services” section and select “Renew Iqama”.
Step 3: Verify Personal Information
If your employer is handling the renewal, they will confirm your details via the Muqeem portal. However, you can also verify your information on Absher.
- Check key details like your job title, salary, and personal information.
- If you notice any errors, contact your HR department or the Ministry of Interior for assistance before proceeding.
Learn more about What is the Muqeem portal and how to register on it to track your Iqama status easily.
Step 4: Pay the Iqama Renewal Fees
The cost of Iqama renewal varies based on your job role and employer responsibilities. Here is a breakdown of typical fees:
- Iqama renewal fee: SAR 650 to SAR 800 per year (depending on occupation).
- Work permit fee: SAR 9,600 annually (if applicable, paid by the employer).
- Dependent fee: SAR 400 per dependent, per month (for dependents under your sponsorship).
Payment can be made via online banking, ATMs, or by visiting a local bank branch.
Step 5: Confirm the Renewal
Once the fees are paid, return to the Absher platform. A notification will confirm the successful renewal of your Iqama.
Step 6: Collect Your New Iqama
After the renewal is processed, you can either:
- Receive the updated Iqama at your registered delivery address.
- Visit the Absher office to collect it in person.
Iqama Renewal Cost (Fees)
The cost of renewing an Iqama in Saudi Arabia depends on several factors, including the type of job, the number of dependents, and any industry-specific fees imposed on employers. The total amount typically includes the Iqama renewal fee, mandatory health insurance, and other official service charges. In some cases, these expenses are covered by the employer, while others are the responsibility of the employee or resident.
Health insurance fees must be paid during the renewal process. Additionally, fees may vary depending on job type, industry, and the number of dependents. Repeated delays in renewal may lead to legal consequences, such as deportation from the country.
What Happens if You Don’t Renew Iqama on Time?
Failing to renew your Iqama on time can lead to fines, legal complications, and, in cases of repeated delays, potential deportation. While it is primarily your employer’s responsibility to handle the renewal, they will be held accountable for any penalties if they fail to do so. Additionally, health insurance fees and other required payments must be settled as part of the process. To avoid these issues, staying aware of your Iqama’s expiry date and ensuring timely renewal is crucial.
For those looking to switch employers, our blog on Understanding Saudi Iqama transfer rules provides a step-by-step guide to the transfer process, including key requirements and conditions.
Conclusion
Renewing your Iqama in Saudi Arabia has become simpler with online platforms like Absher and Muqeem. The process now offers flexible renewal periods, a grace period, and the option for a digital Iqama, making it easier for expatriates to manage their residency. To avoid fines or legal complications, staying updated on policy changes and completing the renewal within the set time limits is essential. Following the proper steps ensures a smooth process, preventing unnecessary delays or penalties.
Curious about where you can travel without a visa? Check out our list of Saudi Iqama Holders Visa free countries 2025 and explore your travel options.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How to Calculate Iqama Renewal Fees?
To calculate Iqama renewal fees, you need to add the costs of the Iqama, work permit, and any dependent fees.
2. Who is Responsible for Renewing Iqama?
Your employer is legally responsible for renewing your Iqama and covering the fees. However, you must pay the fees for any dependents. If your employer refuses to renew it, you have the right to file a complaint.
3. How long is the Iqama valid?
The Iqama is typically valid for one year, with renewal options now available on a quarterly, biannual, or annual basis.
4. Can I Check the Status of My Iqama Renewal Online?
Yes, you can check your Iqama renewal status through the Ministry of Interior’s official online portal.
5. Can I Travel Outside Saudi Arabia During the Iqama Renewal Process?
It is recommended to avoid international travel during the Iqama renewal process to ensure a smooth and timely completion without complications.
6. Why is Iqama Renewal Necessary?
Renewing your Iqama is crucial to maintaining legal residency in Saudi Arabia and ensuring access to various services.
