Iqama Renewal in Saudi Arabia 2025: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
What is an Iqama?
The Iqama (إقامة) is the official residence permit issued to expatriates living and working in Saudi Arabia. It serves as your primary ID card while in the Kingdom — you'll need it for almost everything: opening a bank account, signing a lease, visiting a hospital, or getting a SIM card.
Every expat, whether on a work visa, family visa, or dependent visa, must hold a valid Iqama at all times. Letting it expire can result in heavy fines and potential deportation.
When Should You Renew?
You should start the renewal process at least 30 days before your Iqama expiry date. You can check your Iqama expiry date on the Absher platform or on the physical card itself.
Documents Required for Iqama Renewal
- [OK] Original Iqama (current)
- [OK] Valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining)
- [OK] Sponsor / employer approval (for work visas)
- [OK] Valid medical insurance certificate
- [OK] Payment of renewal fee
- [OK] Proof of address (if required by your sponsor)
For dependents, the head of family's Iqama must also be valid before dependent Iqamas can be renewed.
Iqama Renewal Fees 2025
| Iqama Type | Annual Fee (SAR) |
|---|---|
| Work Visa (employee) | 650 SAR |
| Dependent (spouse / child) | 400 SAR per dependent |
| Domestic worker | Varies by sponsor |
| Premium Residency (PR) | See Premium Residency fee schedule |
Note: Fees are subject to change. Always verify on the official MOI (Ministry of Interior) or Absher portal before payment.
How to Renew Your Iqama via Absher (Step by Step)
- Log in to the Absher website or open the Absher app.
- Go to "My Services" "Iqama Services".
- Select "Renew Iqama".
- Review the information and confirm your details are correct.
- Pay the renewal fee using mada, credit card, or STC Pay.
- Download or print the digital confirmation (your Iqama is renewed instantly).
- The physical card will be delivered via Aramex or SMSA within 5–10 business days.
Renewal Through Your Employer / PRO
Many expats on work visas have their Iqama renewed by their company's PRO (Public Relations Officer). In this case:
- Submit your passport and current Iqama to HR/PRO at least 45 days before expiry.
- Your employer handles the Absher steps and fee payment (usually deducted from salary or covered by the company per your contract).
- You receive the renewed Iqama when it arrives.
Late Renewal & Fines
If your Iqama expires, you are subject to a fine of 200 SAR per month per person for every month the Iqama remains expired. Fines accumulate quickly — a family of four with a 3-month expired Iqama could owe 2,400+ SAR in fines alone before the renewal fee.
In severe cases, overstaying with an expired Iqama can lead to a deportation ban preventing re-entry to the Kingdom.
Pro Tips for Expats
- [reminder] Set a reminder on your phone 60 days before expiry.
- [mobile] Download the Absher app — it sends push notifications as your Iqama nears expiry.
- [hospital] Ensure your health insurance is active before attempting renewal — a lapsed insurance blocks the process.
- If you plan to travel near the expiry date, renew first — an expired Iqama may cause issues at Saudi airports on re-entry.
- Renew all family dependents at the same time to avoid staggered deadlines.