Streamlined Process for Iqama Renewal under New Regulations
Introduction
With recent updates in Iqama renewal regulations, the process has become more flexible and convenient. Here’s a breakdown of the new rules and procedures.
New Rules for Iqama Renewal
- Early Renewal: Iqama renewal can now be initiated up to 6 months in advance.
- Renewal Outside Saudi Arabia: Expats can renew their Iqama even while they are outside the country.
- Quarterly Renewal: The Ministry of Labor (MOL) has introduced the option for quarterly Iqama renewal.
Renewal Procedure for 3 Months
Iqama Fee Calculator: Determine the renewal fee using the Iqama fee calculator.
Requirements for Renewal
- Payment of Iqama Renewal Fee.
- Payment of Dependent Fee.
- Payment of Maktab Amal Fee.
- Valid Health Insurance.
- Active Professional Membership Account (e.g., SOCPA for Accountants, Marmaris Plus/SCFHS for Medical Staff, SCE for Engineers/Technicians).
- HIV/AIDS test for nationals of 10 specific countries.
Online Renewal Process
- Your sponsor will log in to the Muqeem account.
- Visit Muqeem link.
- Click on “المعاملات الإلكترونية”.
- Select “تجديد الإقامة”.
- Enter the security code received on your mobile.
- Input the Iqama Number.
- Choose the desired renewal duration (3, 6, 9, or 12 months).
- Click “Submit” to complete the process.
Verification and Iqama Expiry Check
- Verify the Iqama expiry date on the Absher account.
- Visit Jawazat for a new Iqama card if necessary.
Special Cases
- Renewal for Over 60s: GRO or Kafeel must visit Jawazat for renewal.
- Renewal Outside KSA: Both expatriate employees and dependents can renew their Iqama while outside Saudi Arabia.
Penalties for Expired Iqama
- First Time: SR 500 fine.
- Second Time: SR 1,000 fine.
- Third Time: Deportation of expatriates.
Renewal for Sons Above 18
- Submit additional documents to the GRO:
- Application form.
- Certificate from college/university.
- Passport-sized photo of the son.
- Copies of son’s and father’s Iqama.
- SR 500 additional fee.
Renewal Without Kafeel
- Ensure no Huroob status on Iqama.
- Check eligibility for transferring Iqama without Kafeel.
- Transfer Iqama to a new employer through Qiwa for renewal.