What the iqama actually is.
The iqama, formally Saudi residence permit, is issued by Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports). It is linked to your employer, who acts as your legal sponsor under the kafala framework. Until you become a Saudi citizen, the iqama is the document that lets you live, work, travel, open bank accounts and register your family in the Kingdom.
Your iqama number is also your identifier for nearly every service: Absher, Tawakkalna, STC and Mobily SIMs, healthcare, banking, school enrolment, traffic fines. Memorise it, save it securely, and never share it casually.
Renewal, how it works.
The iqama is renewed by your employer, usually annually. Your employer pays the government fees and the dependent fees if applicable. Most companies automate this, but mistakes happen and the consequences fall on you, not them.
About 30 days before expiry, check your iqama status on the Absher app. If it has not been renewed by the expiry date, you cannot legally exit Saudi Arabia, you can be fined, and you risk being detained at any checkpoint. If the date is approaching and nothing has happened, raise it with HR in writing and keep a record.
Set a calendar reminder 45 days before your iqama expiry. Check Absher. If you do not see a renewal in progress, write to HR immediately. Do not assume it is being handled.
Absher, your most important app.
Absher is the Saudi government's e-services platform. You will use it for nearly everything: checking your iqama status, applying for exit and re-entry visas, managing dependents, paying traffic fines, transferring sponsorship, and dozens of other services.
Register at absher.sa using your iqama number and a Saudi mobile number registered in your name. Activation requires a one-time visit to a bank ATM or kiosk to verify your identity. Do this as soon as you arrive, do not wait until you need it urgently.
Bringing dependents.
Once your employer has issued your iqama and you meet the salary threshold and job category requirements, you can apply for family visas for your spouse and children through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-services portal, with your employer's support.
Each dependent will have their own iqama, renewed annually. Government fees for dependents are paid by you, not your employer, unless your contract specifies otherwise. Budget for this. For a family of four, dependent fees alone can run into several thousand riyals per year.
Exit and re-entry visas.
To travel outside Saudi Arabia and return, you need an exit and re-entry visa, issued through Absher. Single-trip and multi-trip options are available. Always check the visa is active and valid before you fly. Returning after the visa has expired carries fines and potential entry refusal.
If you lose your iqama.
Report the loss to your employer immediately, who will file the official report with Jawazat and apply for a replacement. There is a government fee. In the meantime, the digital iqama in your Tawakkalna or Absher app is accepted in most situations. Always have a saved photo of your iqama on your phone, just in case.
Sponsorship transfer.
Saudi labour reforms have made changing employers much easier than it once was. Under the Labour Reform Initiative, you can request a sponsorship transfer through the Qiwa platform without your current employer's consent, subject to contract notice periods and certain conditions. Read the Qiwa terms carefully before signing any new contract.
This article reflects community knowledge as of June 2026. Saudi residency rules, fees and procedures change. Always verify with Absher, your employer's HR, or a qualified legal advisor before taking action on anything material.