1) What is an Iqama in Saudi Arabia — and why does it matter
Your Iqama in Saudi Arabia is your official Saudi residence permit. It’s your identity card as an expatriate and is essential for every daily activity — from opening a bank account to getting a SIM card.
It’s issued by the Ministry of Interior (Jawazat) and linked to your sponsor (kafeel) or employer.
2) Iqama Renewal — Don’t Wait Till the Last Week!
The Iqama renewal process in Saudi Arabia is typically handled by your employer, either annually or every two years. If your Iqama expires, you won’t be able to work, travel, renew insurance, or access government portals.
How to check Iqama expiry date:
Log in to Absher.sa → Dashboard → Iqama details.
Tip: Start checking your Iqama renewal status at least two weeks before expiry to avoid interruption.
3) Exit & Re-Entry — For Travelling Abroad
If you’re planning to visit your home country, you’ll need an exit and re-entry visa before leaving Saudi Arabia.
Types of Exit/Re-Entry Visa:
- Single Entry: For one trip only, valid for a few months
- Multiple Entry: Allows several trips within the approved period
Your employer applies for it through the Absher or Muqeem portal.
Pro Tip: Always double-check the return date printed on your exit/re-entry visa approval before travelling. Overstaying can result in penalties.
4) Final Exit Visa — Leaving Saudi Arabia for Good
When you decide to end your employment or move back home permanently, you’ll need a Final Exit Visa.
Before leaving, make sure you:
- Clear all company dues.
- Cancel your dependents’ Iqamas (if any).
- Return company property (ID, car, laptop).
- Confirm your Final Exit Visa on Absher.
You must exit within the visa validity period. Once the visa is used, your Saudi residence permit becomes invalid.
5) Sponsorship Transfer (Naqal Kafala)
If you’re changing jobs within the Kingdom, your Iqama process in Saudi Arabia will involve transferring sponsorship to your new employer.
Before transferring:
- Ensure you have no active violations or unpaid fines.
- Obtain a new job offer through the QIWA portal.
- Get the transfer request approved by the MHRSD system.
Once approved, your Iqama will automatically display your new sponsor’s name.
6) Most Useful Websites for Expats
| PLATFORM | WHAT YOU CAN DO |
| ABSHER.SA | Iqama info, travel approvals, fines, traffic, etc. |
| QIWA.SA | Job contracts, sponsorship transfer |
| MUQEEM.SA | Visa services for companies |
| MHRSD.GOV.SA | Labor laws, complaints, and regulations |
Save these websites — they cover nearly every official government service online.
7) Common Mistakes Expats Make
Avoid these frequent mistakes while managing your Saudi residence permit:
- 🚫 Working under a different sponsor (illegal)
- 🚫 Forgetting to renew health insurance before the Iqama renewal
- 🚫 Travelling without a valid exit/re-entry approval
- 🚫 Ignoring Absher or SMS notifications
Almost all Iqama updates in Saudi Arabia appear instantly online, so keep checking your portals regularly.
8) Quick Arabic Words You’ll Hear Often
| English | Arabic | Pronunciation |
| Residency | إقامة | Iqamah |
| Work Visa | تأشيرة عمل | Ta’sheera Amal |
| Sponsor | كفيل | Kafeel |
| Renewal | تجديد | Tajdeed |
| Exit Visa | تأشيرة خروج | Ta’sheera Khurooj |
9) How to Get an Iqama for Family in Saudi Arabia
If you plan to bring your family to the Kingdom, you can apply for family Iqama sponsorship once your own Iqama is active. Understanding how to get Iqama for family in Saudi Arabia will help you plan smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.
In order to sponsor your family, you must first have a valid Iqama and work in a field that is permitted by Saudi law to sponsor families. You can use the Absher platform to apply for a family residency visa after meeting the requirements.
10) Smooth Living with a Valid Iqama in Saudi Arabia
Your Iqama is your legal identification and the key to a comfortable life in the Kingdom; it is more than just a card.
- Keep it renewed and valid
- Use official online portals
- Stay informed about updates
- Understand your rights and obligations
By following these proper steps and using trusted platforms, you’ll make your Iqama process in Saudi Arabia simple, compliant, and stress-free.
