Obtaining an Iqama for Newborns in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction: After the birth of a child in Saudi Arabia, obtaining an Iqama (residence permit) is essential. The process involves several steps, including acquiring a birth certificate and fulfilling documentation requirements.
1. Acquiring Birth Certificate:
a. Birth Notification from the Hospital:
- Apply for the baby’s birth notification at the hospital where the birth occurred.
- The hospital forwards the document to the Ministry of Health for registration.
- Await an SMS notification from the Ministry of Interior (MOI), which may take up to 2 weeks.
b. Applying for Birth Certificate Online:
- Apply for the birth certificate online through Absher if:
- National Address Registration is completed.
- The baby is under 1 year old.
- Birth notification SMS from MOI is received.
- Late application (after 30 days) incurs a fee of SR 50.
- Visit Absher, navigate to “My Services,” then select “Civil Affairs,” and proceed to “New Born Registration.”
c. Visit Ahwal Madani:
- Alternatively, schedule an appointment with Ahwal Madani if not applying online.
- Visit with the father and mother’s Iqama (residence permit) copies.
- Obtain the birth certificate immediately from Ahwal Madani.
2. Printing Birth Certificate from Absher:
- Once the birth certificate is issued by Ahwal Madani, it can be printed from Absher.
- Visit Absher, select “My Services,” then “Civil Affairs,” and access “Birth Certificate Services.”
- Choose “View Birth Certificate” and follow instructions to print.
3. Verifying Birth Certificate:
- To verify the authenticity of the birth certificate, use the Birth Certificate Verification link on Absher.
- Enter the birth certificate number, Iqama number, date of birth, and image code.
4. Required Documents:
- Prepare the following documents for obtaining the birth certificate if applying in person:
- Ahwal Madani appointment.
- Birth notification SMS from MOI.
- Copies of father and mother’s Iqama and passports.
- Marriage certificate and Arabic translation (if applicable).
- Filled Form 87 for Birth Certificate.
- Proof of Saudi visa stamped on mother’s passport.
- Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances.
5. Visit to Ahwal Madani:
- Arrive at Ahwal Madani office at least 20 minutes before the scheduled appointment.
- Submit all required documents and wait for the birth certificate to be issued.
- Confirmation will be sent via SMS upon successful issuance.
6. Obtaining Iqama for the Newborn:
- Attest the birth certificate from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Apply for the newborn’s passport through the respective embassy or consulate.
- Upon passport issuance, proceed to obtain the Iqama for the newborn.
Additional Information:
- Procedures may vary if the mother is on a family visit visa or if the father is not a Saudi resident.
- Consult official channels for specific requirements and assistance.
Ahwal Madani Map Locations: