Refunding unused balance in your Iqama is a simple process that can be completed through various banking channels. Whether you’re using ATM, internet banking, or mobile banking, the steps are simple and similar across different banks. Here, we outline the process based on our experience with Al Rajhi internet banking, providing a clear guide for expatriates in Saudi Arabia looking to retrieve their Iqama funds.
How to Refund Unused Balance in Iqama
To refund your unused Iqama funds, you can use ATM, Internet Banking, or Mobile Banking. The following steps are based on my experience with Al Rajhi internet banking. However, if you are using a different bank or ATM, the refund options are almost same.
- Log in to your Internet Banking or Mobile Banking.
- Go to the “Payments” section.
- Select “Government Payments.”
- Then, select “Resident Services.”
- Next, select the service for which you have paid the money (Example: Iqama Renewal, Sponsorship Transfer, or Exit Re-Entry Visa).
- Then, there will be two options: Payment and Refund. Select the “Refund” option.
- Enter your Iqama number and click on the confirm button.
- Next, you will see the available amount in your Iqama for that particular service; review it and click on the “Confirm” button.
After successful submission, you will see a confirmation message with a transaction number on your screen. Make a note of the transaction number for reference, and the money will be credited to the same account you deposited within a few hours.
What if Your Iqama is Expired
If you have deposited money for a governmenr service and your iqama has expired afterward, and you now wish to withdraw your money, how can this be possible? Let’s discuss the possibilities.
If you deposited funds into your Iqama from a friend’s bank account and your iqama is now expired, you can still get the refund through your friend’s account.
However, if you deposited funds from your own bank account and your iqama is expired, it is a different situation. In Saudi Arabia, once your iqama has expired, your bank accounts will automatically freeze, and you cannot operate them. In this case, a possibility to receive a refund of the deposited amount is by visiting the branch where you held your account and speaking with the branch manager. He may ask you for some documents from your company, like a No Objection Certificate (NOC), and it is at his discretion. While there’s no guarantee, it’s worth attempting to get your refund.
