Iqama Bana in Saudi Arabia for All Countries Citizens. Yes, individuals from all countries can get an Iqama in Saudi Arabia, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria and have a sponsoring employer. The Iqama is an official residency and work permit, allowing foreign nationals to live and work legally in the Kingdom.
This guide explains the Iqama process, requirements, documents, and post-arrival steps, making it easy for workers from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, the Philippines, and other countries to understand how to get their Iqama successfully.
What Is an Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
The Iqama (إقامة) is a residence permit issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) to foreign nationals who are legally employed in the Kingdom. It acts as your official ID card, confirming your legal status for work, residence, and everyday services.
Key Details About the Iqama
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) |
| Validity | 1 year (renewable) |
| Purpose | Legal work and residence |
| Eligibility | Foreigners with a valid work visa & sponsor |
| Renewal | Managed by employer before expiry |
Having an Iqama is mandatory to access services like banking, housing, healthcare, and SIM card registration in Saudi Arabia.
Key Requirements and Steps to Get an Iqama
To obtain an Iqama, you must first secure a job offer from a Saudi company. The employer acts as your official sponsor, handling most of the paperwork.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Valid Passport
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. It must be clear, with no damages or mismatched information.
2. Work Visa and Contract
You must have:
- A job offer from a registered Saudi company.
- A valid work visa issued under your employer’s sponsorship.
- A signed employment contract, attested by relevant authorities.
3. Medical Examination
Before traveling, you must complete a medical test in your home country at an approved medical center. This confirms you’re in good health and free from infectious diseases.
4. Employer Application
After you arrive in Saudi Arabia, your employer must apply for the Iqama through the Ministry of Interior’s online Absher system. They submit your documents and pay the required fees.
5. Biometrics Appointment
You’ll be called for fingerprinting and photographs at an official biometric center. This step is required for Iqama issuance.
6. Health Insurance
Valid health insurance is mandatory for all expatriates. The employer usually arranges this before submitting the Iqama application.
7. Supporting Documents
You or your employer may need to provide:
- Passport-size photos
- Employment letter (certified by Chamber of Commerce)
- Visa copy and entry stamp
- Medical report
- Copy of job offer or contract
What to Do After Arriving in Saudi Arabia
Once you land in Saudi Arabia on your work visa, you must complete these steps quickly to get your Iqama:
- Undergo Medical Exam: Visit a government-approved hospital or clinic for final medical clearance.
- Complete Biometrics: Go to a fingerprint center for verification.
- Employer Submission: Your employer uploads all data into the MOI system for processing.
- Receive Iqama Card: Once approved, your Iqama will be printed and issued, usually within 2–3 weeks after submission.
Iqama Fees and Duration
| Type of Fee | Responsible Party | Estimated Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Iqama Issuance Fee | Employer | 650 – 800 SAR per year |
| Health Insurance | Employer | 300 – 500 SAR |
| Medical Test | Employee (before travel) | 150 – 200 SAR |
| Biometrics | Free | — |
The Iqama is valid for one year, and renewal is the employer’s responsibility. The process should start before the expiry date to avoid fines.
Iqama Process for All Nationalities
Citizens from all countries — such as Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, the Philippines, Egypt, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka — can obtain an Iqama, provided they have:
- A valid Saudi work visa
- A registered employer or sponsor
- Completed medical and biometric procedures
Each nationality follows the same legal process, but costs and embassy verification steps might differ slightly.
Importance of Having an Iqama
Having an Iqama gives you the legal right to live, work, and access services in Saudi Arabia. Without it, even if you have a valid visa, you cannot:
- Open a bank account
- Rent or lease housing
- Enroll children in schools
- Access medical facilities
- Travel within GCC countries
- Renew your visa or exit-reentry permit
Legal Consequences of Not Having an Iqama:
- Heavy fines up to SAR 10,000
- Arrest and deportation
- Employer penalties including license suspension
Responsibilities of Employers
Saudi law makes it clear that the employer is responsible for applying and renewing the Iqama.
Employer Duties:
- Apply for the Iqama within 90 days after the employee’s arrival.
- Cover all Iqama and visa costs.
- Provide health insurance and maintain valid work permits.
- Renew Iqamas before expiry to avoid fines.
If an employer fails to apply or renew, they face financial penalties and legal actions.
Validity and Renewal of Iqama
The Iqama is typically valid for one year. Renewal is simple and done by the employer through Absher or Muqeem platform.
Renewal Requirements:
- Valid employment contract
- Medical test (if required)
- Updated health insurance
- Fee payment by employer
Late renewal results in fines starting from SAR 500 for the first delay, increasing if repeated.
Table: Summary of Iqama Process
| Step | Description | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Get Job Offer & Work Visa | Employee & Employer |
| 2 | Enter Saudi Arabia | Employee |
| 3 | Medical Test (Saudi Clinic) | Employee |
| 4 | Employer Applies for Iqama | Employer |
| 5 | Fingerprint & Photo | Employee |
| 6 | Iqama Issuance | Ministry of Interior |
| 7 | Renewal Each Year | Employer |
Important Things to Remember
- The Iqama acts as your national ID while living in Saudi Arabia.
- Always carry your Iqama when outside — it may be requested by authorities.
- Keep your employer updated on any personal changes (like passport renewal).
- Do not work for anyone else apart from your sponsor.
Conclusion
Getting an Iqama in Saudi Arabia is essential for every foreign worker, no matter which country they belong to. The process is straightforward when your employer is registered and follows the legal system. Once you receive your Iqama, you can enjoy full access to banking, healthcare, housing, and other services in the Kingdom.
Always ensure your Iqama stays valid and renewed on time, as working or residing without it can lead to severe penalties for both you and your employer.
FAQs Iqama in Saudi Arabia
1. Can foreigners from any country get an Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, workers from all countries can get an Iqama if they have a valid work visa and sponsoring employer.
2. How long does it take to get an Iqama after arrival?
Usually within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on medical and biometric completion.
3. Who applies for the Iqama?
The employer applies for it through the Ministry of Interior’s Absher system.
4. What happens if my Iqama expires?
It must be renewed before expiry. Delays result in fines or work permit suspension.
5. Can I change my sponsor or employer?
Yes, but only through official transfer of sponsorship (Naqal Kafala) approved by the Ministry.
