An iqama is a residence permit in Saudi Arabia that foreign workers must get to remain and work in the country lawfully.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior grants the iqama and is valid for a set time, usually one year.
Foreign workers must have an iqama to open bank accounts, obtain a driver’s license, rent a property, and engage in other basic activities in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the iqama acts as an identification document, and workers must always keep it with them.
Iqama vs visa
The names “iqama” and “visa” are connected to immigration and residency in a foreign country, yet they serve different purposes.
An iqama, also known as a residence permit, is a document that enables someone to live and work in Saudi Arabia for a set length of time. It entitles the possessor to enter and exit the country as often as they choose, as long as they have the proper travel documentation.
A visa, on the other hand, is a temporary authorization provided by a country that allows an individual to enter and stay in the country for a set amount of time. A visa is usually provided for a set period, after which the holder must leave the country or seek for an extension.
Benefits of having an iqama
- Work authorization: It is required for legal employment, enabling expats to work for Saudi companies or government entities.
- Access to essential services: Iqama holders can access healthcare, education, and public utilities, and are entitled to the same medical services as Saudi citizens, including emergency and specialized care.
- Banking and financial services: With an Iqama, expats can open bank accounts, obtain credit cards, and manage finances, which is often not possible without proper documentation.
- Family sponsorship: Iqama holders can sponsor their spouse and children, allowing family members to reside in Saudi Arabia and access schooling and healthcare.
- Ease of travel: Iqama holders can travel freely within Saudi Arabia and enter or exit the country without restrictions during the permit’s validity period. Some types of Iqama also provide visa-free or on-arrival travel to other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
- Access to government and legal services: The Iqama is required for various official processes, such as obtaining a driver’s license, renting property, registering SIM cards, and connecting utilities.
- Business and investment opportunities: Certain Iqama types, such as the Premium Residency, allow expats to invest, own property, and operate businesses without the need for a local sponsor.
- Social and cultural participation: Having an Iqama enables expats to participate in social, cultural, and professional activities, fostering a sense of community and belonging
Who is required to apply for iqama
Expatriates who wish to reside and work in Saudi Arabia must apply for an Iqama. Any foreign national who wants to stay in the country for an extended period, whether for employment or other purposes, must obtain an Iqama.
Generally, obtaining an Iqama starts after a foreign national has secured employment in Saudi Arabia. In this case, the employer sponsors the employee and submits an application for an Iqama on their behalf.
In some cases, foreign nationals may be invited to work in Saudi Arabia by the government or its agencies, such as for consultancy or research work. In such cases, the government agency acts as the sponsor and submits the Iqama application on behalf of the expatriate.
It’s essential to note that an Iqama is mandatory for all expatriates working or residing in Saudi Arabia, regardless of nationality, gender, or profession. Without an Iqama, it is illegal for expats to live or work in the country, and they may face legal consequences if caught.
Rights and responsibilities of iqama holders
As an Iqama holder in Saudi Arabia, there are specific rights and responsibilities that expats are expected to uphold.
Rights
- The Iqama provides expats with the right to reside in Saudi Arabia for a specific period as the authorities approve.
- With an Iqama, expats have the right to work in Saudi Arabia as approved by the authorities and per the terms and conditions of their Iqama.
- Iqama holders have the right to access basic services such as healthcare, education, and other public services the government provides.
- Iqama holders have the right to move freely within the country as per the terms and conditions of their Iqama.
Responsibilities
- Holders must ensure information in their Iqama is correct and accurate.
- Iqama holders must comply with all the laws and regulations of Saudi Arabia, including traffic and labor laws and respect for local customs and traditions
- Expats must respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and religious practices.
- Iqama holders must pay all fees and taxes per the Saudi government’s regulations.
- Expats are responsible for renewing their Iqama before its expiration date and complying with all the regulations related to Iqama renewal.
- Iqama holders are expected to respect their employers and comply with the terms and conditions of their employment contracts.
Failure to comply with the regulations can result in fines, deportation, and even a ban on entering the country.
How to obtain an iqama
Obtaining an Iqama in Saudi Arabia requires a specific process that expats must follow.
1. Secure a job offer
The first step in obtaining an Iqama is to secure a job offer in Saudi Arabia. The job offer will serve as the basis for the sponsor to initiate the Iqama application process on behalf of the expat.
2. Medical examination
Once the sponsor has initiated the Iqama application process, the expat must undergo a medical examination. The examination aims to check the expat’s health and determine if they are free from infectious diseases.
3. Submit the application
After the medical examination, the sponsor will submit the Iqama application on behalf of the expat. The application will include the expat’s personal information, job details, and medical examination results.
4. Fingerprinting
The expat will then need to undergo fingerprinting to create a biometric record. This record will be used for identity verification purposes.
5. Wait for approval
After applying, the expat will need to wait for approval from the Saudi authorities. The approval process can take several weeks, and the expat must remain patient.
6. Collect iqama
Once the Iqama is approved, the expat must collect it from the relevant authorities. The Iqama will contain the expat’s personal information, job details, and validity period.
7. Renewal
The expat will need to renew the Iqama before its expiration date. Failure to renew the Iqama on time can result in fines or even deportation.
Renewing and maintaining an iqama
Renewing and maintaining an Iqama is essential for expats who wish to stay and work in Saudi Arabia. Here are some important things to know about renewing and maintaining an Iqama.
Renewal of iqama
- The validity period of an Iqama can be one year or two years, depending on the terms and conditions of the Iqama.
- To avoid delays, Iqama holders should start the renewal process at least three months before the expiration date.
- To renew an Iqama, the expat must submit a valid passport, a medical report, and other relevant documents requested by the authorities.
- The expat or their sponsor must pay the Iqama renewal fees before the expiration date to avoid any penalties.
Maintaining an iqama
- Iqama holders must always carry their Iqama with them and present it when the authorities request.
- Expats must notify the authorities of any changes to their personal information, including their job and address.
- Iqama holders are only allowed to work for their sponsor as per the terms and conditions of their Iqama.
- Expats must comply with all the laws and regulations of Saudi Arabia, including traffic and labor laws.
Expats need to renew and maintain their Iqama to avoid any legal consequences, including fines, deportation, and a ban on entering the country.
Common violations and penalties
- Breaking Iqama rules in Saudi Arabia can result in penalties ranging from fines to deportation, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.
- Failing to renew an Iqama before its expiry is a common violation; fines start at SAR 500 for the first offense, increase to SAR 1,000 for the second, and can lead to deportation after the third offense.
- Working for an employer other than your Iqama sponsor is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and a possible ban from reentering Saudi Arabia.
- Other infractions include changing professions without proper documentation, exceeding the Iqama’s validity period, and engaging in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, all of which can result in fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
- Repeated or serious violations may also lead to jail time and permanent termination of residency status.
- Both expatriates and employers can face penalties; employers may be fined up to SAR 100,000 for each undocumented worker.
To avoid legal consequences, expatriates must renew their Iqama on time, work only for their sponsor, and comply with all local regulations.
FAQs on Iqama for Migrant Workers and Employers
What is an Iqama?
An Iqama is the official residency permit issued to foreign workers in Saudi Arabia, serving as both a work permit and primary identification card.
Why do I need an Iqama?
Without an Iqama, you cannot legally live, work, open a bank account, obtain a SIM card, or access medical services in Saudi Arabia.
Who is required to have an Iqama?
All non-Saudi nationals intending to live and work in Saudi Arabia for more than 90 days must obtain an Iqama.
How do I apply for an Iqama?
Your employer (sponsor) must apply for your Iqama within 90 days of your arrival, following completion of a medical exam and submission of required documents.
What if my Iqama expires or is not renewed?
Working with an expired Iqama is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, or detention. It is your employer’s responsibility to renew it on time.
Can I travel within Saudi Arabia with my Iqama?
Yes, you can travel freely within the country, but you must always carry your Iqama as identification.
Can I sponsor my family to live with me?
Certain types of Iqama allow you to sponsor dependents, but requirements vary depending on your job and Iqama category.
What rights do I have as an Iqama holder?
You have access to compulsory health insurance, banking services, and the ability to send remittances home. You are also protected under Saudi labor law.
What is employer sponsorship in the Iqama process?
Employers act as legal sponsors, handling the application, renewal, and compliance for their foreign employees’ Iqamas.
What are the main types of Iqama?
Iqamas are issued for labor/professional workers, dependents, domestic workers, government employees, and business investors, each with specific requirements.
What are the steps to obtain an Iqama for a new employee?
- Secure ministry approval and a block visa
- Obtain a work visa and complete medical checks
- Submit Iqama application after arrival
- Ensure timely renewal before expiry
How long does it take to issue an Iqama?
Typically, an Iqama is issued within 7–14 working days after all documents are submitted and approved.
Who pays for the Iqama and associated fees?
Employers are generally responsible for the costs of Iqama issuance, renewal, and compulsory health insurance premiums.
What are common challenges in the Iqama process?
Delays can occur due to paperwork errors, changing regulations, or missed deadlines, leading to penalties or visa cancellations.
What happens if an employee leaves before receiving their Iqama?
The employee must obtain an exit and re-entry permit if they need to leave Saudi Arabia before their Iqama is issued.
How often must Iqamas be renewed?
Most Iqamas are valid for one year and must be renewed annually by the employer.