- Iqama annual issuance & renewal fee: SAR 650
- Expat levy (work permit): SAR 800 per month (SAR 9,600 yearly)
- Dependent fee: SAR 400 per dependent per month
- Renewal requires health insurance, cleared penalties, and paid dues
- Penalties: SAR 500 (1st delay), SAR 1,000 (2nd), deportation on 3rd
Living and working in Saudi Arabia requires a valid Iqama (residency permit). Whether you’re a new expat or renewing your card, understanding the issuance process, renewal conditions, and related fees is essential. This 2025 guide explains everything clearly, including dependent fees, expat levy, penalties, and how to renew online via Absher.
What is an Iqama?
An Iqama is the official residency permit issued by Jawazat (Saudi Passport Authority). It acts as your national ID and proof of legal stay. Expat employees can only reside in Saudi Arabia with a valid Iqama sponsored by their employer.
Iqama Issuance Fee (2025)
Iqama is issued for SAR 650 annually. Payments can also be made quarterly.
| Duration | Fee (SAR) |
|---|---|
| 3 months | 163 |
| 6 months | 325 |
| 9 months | 488 |
| 12 months | 650 |
Work Permit / Expat Levy Fee
In addition to Iqama issuance, employers must pay the Maktab Amal (expat levy) at SAR 800 per month.
| Duration | Levy Fee (SAR) |
|---|---|
| 3 months | 2,400 |
| 6 months | 4,800 |
| 9 months | 7,200 |
| 12 months | 9,600 |
Dependent Fee
Each expat dependent requires SAR 400 per month.
| Duration | Fee per Dependent (SAR) |
|---|---|
| 3 months | 1,200 |
| 6 months | 2,400 |
| 9 months | 3,600 |
| 12 months | 4,800 |
Renewal Conditions
To renew the Iqama, the following conditions must be met:
- Full payment of the Iqama issuance fee.
- Clearance of all expat levy dues.
- Dependent fees (if applicable) fully paid.
- Valid health insurance linked to the Iqama.
- No unpaid traffic violations.
Renewals are completed online via Absher or the employer’s HR portal.
How to Renew Iqama Online via Absher (2025)
Renewing your Iqama online is straightforward if all dues are cleared. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your Absher account (Employer or Sponsor login).
- From the Dashboard, select “My Services” → “Passports”.
- Click on “Iqama Services” → “Renew Iqama”.
- Select the employee/resident name from the list.
- Choose the renewal duration (1 year or quarterly options).
- Confirm that fees are already paid (Iqama, levy, and dependent).
- Click Submit → A confirmation message will appear.
- Print or download the renewed Iqama (digital copy available in the Absher app).
Note: If health insurance has expired or traffic fines are pending, renewal will be blocked until cleared.
Iqama Expiration Penalty
- 1st delay: SAR 500 fine
- 2nd delay: SAR 1,000 fine
- 3rd delay: Deportation
FAQs
A. An Iqama is the residence permit issued to expatriates working or living in Saudi Arabia. It serves as the primary ID for accessing government services, banking, healthcare, and employment.
A. The Iqama issuance fee varies by category (worker, dependent, domestic helper). In 2025, the typical cost ranges between SAR 650–850, excluding health insurance and dependent fees.
A. Renewal fees in 2025 remain SAR 650 for most expatriates, plus health insurance costs and applicable dependent fees (SAR 400 per dependent per month).
A. Yes. Employers and expatriates may also pay work permit fees (SAR 800–1000/month depending on sector) and insurance premiums, in addition to renewal charges.
A. Yes. The Ministry of Human Resources applies varying work permit fees depending on company Saudization levels, sector, and workforce composition.
A. Fees are paid through online banking (SADAD payment system) or via authorized bank ATMs. The payment must be linked to the expatriate’s Iqama number.
A. A fine is imposed for late renewal. Penalties increase for repeated delays, and prolonged failure to renew may result in deportation or a ban.
A. Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all expatriates and their dependents. Without valid insurance linked to Absher, Iqama renewal cannot be processed.
Conclusion
Iqama renewal is one of the most important processes for expats in Saudi Arabia. Ensure that fees are paid on time, health insurance is valid, and there are no pending fines. Keeping your Iqama updated helps you avoid penalties and ensures your stay in the Kingdom remains legal and stress-free.
For related guides, see Visa Exit/Re-Entry Validity Check – Muqeem Portal KSA and Al Rajhi Bank Account Online for managing financial transactions linked to your residency.
DISCLAIMER: This blog post is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to ensure the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and well-sourced, we cannot guarantee its completeness or absolute accuracy. All images, videos, and logos featured on this page are the property of their respective owners. We make every effort to provide proper credit and references. If you are the rightful owner and would like your image, video, or logo removed, please contact us.
Vania Ali is a dentist by profession and a passionate blogger at Saudi Scoop. With a love for writing and exploring new places, Vania shares insightful content that informs and inspires readers while embracing the thrill of travel.
