Navigating the Process of Acquiring an Iqama for a Newborn in Saudi Arabia

Welcoming a new addition to the family is an incredibly special moment, whether it happens within the borders of Saudi Arabia or elsewhere. For expatriate residents, an essential administrative step following such a joyous event is obtaining an Iqama, the residency permit, for the newborn. 

This detailed guide is here to assist you through the entire process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Step 1: Organizing Your Documentation

Initiating the process involves compiling a set of documents necessary for the newborn’s Iqama application. 

These documents can be conveniently gathered and submitted online through the Absher platform, eliminating the need for physical visits to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat). Combine the following documents into a single PDF file for uploading:

• Birth Certificate of the Baby.
• Baby’s Passport.
• Proof of Dependent Fee Payment.
• Valid Insurance Coverage.
• Recent Photographs of the Newborn.
• Copies of the Father’s and Mother’s Iqama.
• Copies of the Father’s and Mother’s Passports.
• Baby’s Vaccination Record.
• Original Marriage Certificate duly attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if not sponsoring the spouse.
• SAR 1,000 fine (if applicable) for late Iqama applications beyond 12 months post-birth, exclusive to babies born in Saudi Arabia.

Step 2: Additional Documentation for Overseas Births

Supplementary documents are required for newborns born outside Saudi Arabia. Upon bringing the baby to Saudi Arabia, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• The passport page shows the border number.
• Polio immunization certificate from the hospital.
• Photocopy of stamped visa or on-arrival visa in the passport.
• Proof of payment for the SAR 2,000 Iqama fee for the newborn.

Step 3: Submitting the Application

With all documents compiled into a single PDF, proceed to Absher (https://www.absher.sa/) to initiate the application process:

• Log in and navigate to “Services” > “My Services” > “Passports” > “Tawasul.”
• Click on “New Request” and complete the form, specifying your child’s place of birth and describing the issue in “Request Description.”
• Attach the prepared PDF file without any spaces or special characters in the name.
• Expect a mobile notification once the application is processed.

Step 4: Retrieving the Iqama

Upon receiving confirmation of approval:

Log back into Absher and go to “General Services” > “Passports” > “Tawasul” > “Inquire for Requests”.

If approved, take the Tawasul request printout along with your documents to the Jawazat office for immediate Iqama printing. Ensure you have a prior appointment for Resident Services.

Bringing a Newborn to Saudi Arabia

If both parents hold valid Iqamas, bringing a baby born outside Saudi Arabia into the country involves the following steps:

• Confirm the child is under 12 months old and both parents possess valid Iqamas.
• Ensure the mother has a valid exit reentry visa.
• Upon meeting these conditions, the newborn can obtain an on-arrival visa at any Saudi Arabian international airport. The mother should carry:
• Newborn’s Passport.
• Baby’s Birth Certificate.
• Baby’s Vaccination Card.
• Copies of Parents’ Iqama.
• Copies of Parents’ Passports.

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