What is Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
Learn everything you need to know about the Saudi Iqama—its types, validity, and requirements.
What is Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
Whether for personal or business purposes, holding an Iqama is the key to unlocking opportunities and ensuring smooth operations in Saudi ArabiaIt is mandatory for individuals seeking to work in Saudi Arabia and is essential for accessing key services such as banking, licensing, and mobile connections, making it indispensable for daily life in the Kingdom.Foreign companies in the process of setting up a business in Saudi Arabia must appoint a general manager who secures an Iqama to open a company bank account and complete compliance requirements.
Saudi Iqama Requirements for Foreign Employees
To obtain an Iqama in Saudi Arabia, both the expatriate and the sponsoring employer must fulfill certain conditions. While the exact requirements may differ based on the type of Iqama, the process generally includes:
Valid Employment Contract
A proof of a legitimate job offer or work arrangement.
Medical Certificate
A clean bill of health verified through approved medical tests.
Health Insurance
The mandatory coverage under the Kingdom’s regulations.
Work Permit
An active permit issued through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
Navigating the Iqama Process for Foreign Employees in Saudi Arabia
Application Process
- Foreign workers with a valid job contract can apply for temporary residency alongside their work visa.
- The sponsoring employer handles most procedures, beginning with a Block Visa issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.
Residency Duration
- Residency permits are typically valid for one year and can be extended up to two years if the employment contract allows.
Application Timeline
- Employees have 90 days after arrival in Saudi Arabia to apply for both their work permit and Iqama.
Re-entry & Exit
- For temporary travel, employees must obtain an exit and re-entry visa.
- To leave permanently, the residence permit must be surrendered to the passport authority with a final exit request form.
Replacement
- Lost or damaged Iqamas can be reissued as replacements, stamped accordingly, and remain valid for the original permit’s remaining duration.
Types of Saudi Iqama
Saudi offers diverse types of iqama according to the needs of applicants and the purpose of their stay.
Dependents: for family members of expatriates
Government Employees: for foreign government employees
Special Privilege: Premium Residency
Business: for individuals intending to do business in Saudi Arabia
Domestic Worker: for household helpers
Labor Class: for manual workers in areas like construction and maintenance
Professional Class: for individuals holding university degrees
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| Offering | AstroLabs | Corporate Services Companies offering PRO & GRO | Law Firms | In-House |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40+ on-ground local team of experts |  |  | | |
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| Full management of your company licenses and certificates | | | | |
| Management of registered employees across the employee journey, from hiring to ongoing management | | | | |
| Full suite of support: PRO, GRO, HRs support and access to a pool of Saudi talent | | | | |
| National Address Registration with varied coworking and private office locations | | | | |
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| Corporate bank account opening | | | | |
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