If you’re planning to work in Saudi Arabia or have just arrived in the Kingdom, you’ll quickly encounter the term “Iqama.” For expatriates, this small card is far more than just another document—it’s your key to legal residency, employment, and everyday life in Saudi Arabia.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Iqama: what it is, why it matters, how to get one, and what responsibilities come with holding it.
What Exactly is an Iqama?
An Iqama (إقامة) is Saudi Arabia’s official residence permit for foreign nationals. It’s a small, laminated card—similar in size to a credit card—that contains your personal details, photograph, profession, sponsor information, and a unique Iqama number.
Think of it as your legal identity card while living in Saudi Arabia. Without a valid Iqama, you cannot legally work, open a bank account, rent accommodation, or access many essential services in the Kingdom.
Iqama vs. Work Visa: What’s the Difference?
Many newcomers confuse the two, but they serve different purposes:
- Work Visa: Allows you to enter Saudi Arabia. It’s issued before you arrive and is stamped in your passport.
- Iqama: Confirms you are a legal resident with permission to live and work in the Kingdom. It’s issued after you arrive and complete certain requirements.
In short: the visa gets you in, but the Iqama lets you stay and work legally.
Why is the Iqama So Important?
The Iqama is not optional—it’s a legal requirement. Here’s why it’s essential:
1. Legal Right to Work
Without an Iqama, you cannot be legally employed in Saudi Arabia. Employers will not finalize contracts or process salaries until your Iqama is issued.
2. Official Identification
Your Iqama serves as your primary ID for daily activities:
- Opening a bank account
- Registering for utilities (electricity, water, internet)
- Accessing healthcare services
- Renting a property
- Applying for a driver’s license
3. Travel Within the GCC
Iqama holders can travel to certain Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries without needing a separate visa, making regional travel more convenient.
4. Protection Under Saudi Labor Law
Your Iqama confirms your legal employment status, which means you’re covered by Saudi labor laws and entitled to workplace protections.
How to Apply for an Iqama: Step-by-Step Process
Once you enter Saudi Arabia on a work visa, your employer (sponsor) will begin the Iqama application process. Here’s what happens:
Step 1: Medical Examination
All new expats must undergo a medical examination at an approved center in Saudi Arabia. This typically includes:
- Blood tests (for infectious diseases)
- Chest X-ray (for tuberculosis screening)
- General health check
The results are submitted electronically to the relevant authorities.
Step 2: Medical Insurance
Saudi Arabia requires all expats to have valid medical insurance before an Iqama is issued. Your employer is responsible for providing this coverage, which must meet minimum standards set by the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI).
Step 3: Document Submission
Your employer submits the required documents to the Ministry of Interior through the Absher or Muqeem online platforms. Documents typically include:
- Your passport copy
- Work visa details
- Medical examination results
- Proof of medical insurance
- Employment contract
Step 4: Fee Payment
There is a fee for Iqama issuance, which is usually paid by the employer. The amount can vary depending on the profession and duration of the Iqama.
Step 5: Iqama Issuance
Once all documents are verified and approved, your Iqama is printed and issued. This process typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks. Most Iqamas are valid for one or two years, depending on your employment contract.
Iqama Validity and Renewal
How Long is an Iqama Valid?
Most Iqamas are issued with a validity period of one to two years. The expiry date is clearly printed on the card.
Renewing Your Iqama
It’s crucial to renew your Iqama before it expires. Working or staying in Saudi Arabia with an expired Iqama is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, or a travel ban.
The renewal process is typically handled by your employer and includes:
- Payment of renewal fees
- Updated medical insurance (if applicable)
- Submission through Absher/Muqeem portals
Tip: Check your Iqama expiry date regularly. You can verify it online through the Absher platform or the MOI mobile app.
Rights and Responsibilities of Iqama Holders
Your Rights
As an Iqama holder, you are entitled to:
- Work legally in your designated profession
- Access public healthcare (if covered by insurance)
- Open bank accounts and financial services
- Rent or lease property
- Apply for a Saudi driver’s license
- Protection under Saudi labor and residency laws
Your Responsibilities
With an Iqama comes certain obligations:
- Carry it at all times: You must have your Iqama with you. Authorities may ask to see it during routine checks.
- Report if lost or stolen: Notify your employer and the nearest police station immediately if your Iqama is lost. A replacement can be issued.
- Work only in your designated profession: Your Iqama specifies your job title and sponsor. Working in a different field or for another employer without transferring sponsorship is illegal.
- Renew on time: Never let your Iqama expire.
- Follow Saudi laws: Respect local laws, customs, and regulations at all times.
What Happens if Your Iqama Expires?
Letting your Iqama expire can lead to serious consequences:
- Fines: Daily penalties for overstaying
- Travel ban: You may be unable to leave Saudi Arabia until fines are paid
- Deportation: In severe cases, expats may be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom
- Legal issues: Employers may face penalties for not renewing employee Iqamas on time
If your Iqama is close to expiring and your employer hasn’t started the renewal process, follow up immediately.
Can You Change Your Iqama Sponsor?
Yes, under Saudi Arabia’s labor reforms, expats can transfer their sponsorship (known as Iqama transfer or Naqal kafala) under certain conditions:
- Your current employment contract must have ended
- You must not have any financial or legal disputes with your current sponsor
- The new employer must initiate the transfer request
This process has become easier in recent years, especially for expats under the Labor Mobility Initiative, which allows greater flexibility in changing employers.
Note: Specific rules may vary depending on your profession and contract type. Always verify current regulations on the official Absher or Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) portals before proceeding.
Final Thoughts
The Iqama is the most important document you’ll hold as an expatriate in Saudi Arabia. It’s your legal identity, your work permit, and your gateway to accessing essential services in the Kingdom.
Understanding how the Iqama works—and ensuring it’s always valid—will help you avoid legal complications and make your life in Saudi Arabia much smoother. Always keep track of your expiry date, carry your Iqama with you, and work closely with your employer to handle renewals and any necessary updates.
If you have any questions or need clarification on Iqama-related processes, consult your employer’s HR department or visit the official Absher platform for the most up-to-date information.
Stay informed, stay compliant, and enjoy your time in the Kingdom.
Disclaimer: Regulations and procedures can change. Always verify the latest information on official Saudi government platforms such as Absher (absher.sa) or the MHRSD website before taking action.