Riyadh (November 2025) – The Saudi government has confirmed that citizens from all countries are eligible to obtain an Iqama (residency permit) if they meet the official requirements and have a valid employer sponsor. The Iqama allows foreign nationals to live and work legally in the Kingdom and access essential services such as healthcare, banking, and housing.
What Is an Iqama?
The Iqama (إقامة) is an official residence and work permit issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) to foreign employees. It acts as a national identity card for expatriates, proving their legal status in the country.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) |
| Validity | 1 year (renewable) |
| Purpose | Legal work and residence |
| Eligibility | Foreigners with valid work visa and sponsor |
| Renewal | Managed by employer before expiry |
Without a valid Iqama, foreigners cannot open bank accounts, register SIM cards, or access government services.
How to Get an Iqama in Saudi Arabia
The process starts once a foreign worker receives a job offer from a Saudi employer. The company acts as the official sponsor and handles most of the paperwork.
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months and contain accurate details.
2. Work Visa and Contract
You need a valid work visa, a job offer, and a signed employment contract verified by Saudi authorities.
3. Medical Examination
A health test must be completed at an approved medical center in your home country before travel.
4. Employer Application
After arrival, your employer applies for the Iqama through the Absher portal, submitting all necessary documents and fees.
5. Biometrics Appointment
Fingerprints and photographs are taken at an official Saudi registration center.
6. Health Insurance
Every expatriate must have valid health insurance, usually arranged by the employer.
7. Required Documents
- Passport copies
- Job offer or employment contract
- Medical report
- Visa and entry stamp copy
- Passport-sized photographs
Post-Arrival Procedure
After entering Saudi Arabia with your work visa, these steps must be completed quickly:
- Medical Test: Conducted again in a government-approved Saudi clinic.
- Biometric Verification: Fingerprinting and photo collection.
- Employer Submission: Details uploaded to the MOI system.
- Iqama Issuance: Usually completed within 2–3 weeks.
Iqama Fees and Duration
| Type of Fee | Paid By | Estimated Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Iqama Issuance | Employer | 650 – 800 per year |
| Health Insurance | Employer | 300 – 500 |
| Medical Test (Before Travel) | Employee | 150 – 200 |
| Biometrics | — | Free |
The Iqama is valid for one year and must be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties.
Iqama Eligibility for All Nationalities
Citizens from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Nepal, Egypt, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka are all eligible for the Iqama if they:
- Hold a valid Saudi work visa
- Work under a registered Saudi sponsor
- Complete medical and biometric verification
The process is similar for all, but embassy verification or minor costs may vary by nationality.
Why the Iqama Is Important
The Iqama serves as your legal identity in Saudi Arabia. Without it, foreign residents cannot:
- Open a bank account
- Rent or lease housing
- Enroll children in school
- Apply for exit or re-entry visas
- Access healthcare or travel within GCC countries
Penalties for Not Having an Iqama
Working or living in Saudi Arabia without an Iqama is illegal and can result in:
- Fines up to SAR 10,000
- Arrest or deportation
- Employer penalties, including business license suspension
Employer Responsibilities
Employers play a key role in the Iqama process. They must:
- Apply for the Iqama within 90 days of employee arrival
- Pay all related fees
- Provide valid health insurance
- Renew the Iqama before expiry
Failure to do so can lead to legal and financial consequences.
Iqama Renewal Process
The Iqama is valid for one year and is renewed online via Absher or Muqeem platforms.
Renewal Requirements:
- Active employment contract
- Updated health insurance
- Renewal fees paid by employer
- Medical test (if required)
Late renewals can lead to fines starting from SAR 500, increasing with repeated violations.
Quick Summary of the Iqama Process
| Step | Description | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Get Job Offer & Work Visa | Employer & Employee |
| 2 | Travel to Saudi Arabia | Employee |
| 3 | Medical Test (in KSA) | Employee |
| 4 | Apply for Iqama | Employer |
| 5 | Fingerprints & Photo | Employee |
| 6 | Receive Iqama | Ministry of Interior |
| 7 | Renew Every Year | Employer |
Conclusion
The Iqama is essential for each overseas employee in Saudi Arabia. It guarantees criminal employment, get admission to to public services, and peace of thoughts whilst living within the Kingdom.
Whether you’re from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, or any other usa, you may attain an Iqama in case you meet the requirements and feature a established agency sponsor.
Always preserve your Iqama legitimate, deliver it with you, and renew it on time to keep away from penalties and hold working effectively in Saudi Arabia.
