A complete, actionable guide to renewing your Iqama (residence permit) — deadlines, fees, the Absher portal, and the common pitfalls that cause expensive daily fines.
The Iqama (إقامة) is your residence permit as an expatriate in Saudi Arabia. Renewing it on time is non-negotiable — overstaying an expired Iqama results in daily fines of SAR 100, deportation risk, and a potential travel ban. This guide walks you through the complete renewal process as of 2025.
Critical Deadline
Start your renewal process at least 30 days before your Iqama expiry date. Renewals can be initiated up to 90 days in advance through the Absher portal.
Option A: Self-Renewal via Absher (Most Common)
- 1Login to Absher.sa with your Iqama number and password
- 2Navigate to 'My Services' → 'Residency Services' → 'Renew Residence Permit'
- 3Select renewal period: 1 year (SAR 650) or 2 years (SAR 1,300)
- 4Confirm your biometric data is registered (fingerprints must be valid)
- 5Pay via SADAD, Mada card, or credit card
- 6Receive digital confirmation — physical card delivered within 7–10 days
Option B: Employer-Sponsored Renewal via Qiwa
- Your PRO or HR manager initiates the renewal through Qiwa.com.sa
- Employee receives SMS to approve the request via Absher
- Payment is made by the employer (per Saudi Labor Law, Iqama fees are employer-paid)
- Status updates appear in your Absher app within 24–48 hours
Required Documents Checklist
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond Iqama expiry)
- Current Iqama (even if expired — renewal still processes)
- Updated CCHI-approved health insurance certificate
- For dependents: updated Iqama for sponsor + dependency documents
Health Insurance: The Most Overlooked Requirement
Since 2022, active health insurance is mandatory for Iqama renewal. Your policy must be CCHI (Council of Cooperative Health Insurance) approved and electronically linked to your Iqama number.
Fees (2025 Schedule)
- 1-year renewal: SAR 650 per person
- 2-year renewal: SAR 1,300 per person
- Dependent surcharge: SAR 400/year per dependent
- Late penalty: SAR 100/day (capped at SAR 10,000)
- Re-entry visa (if traveling during renewal): SAR 200–800
"The most expensive mistake expatriates make is waiting until the Iqama expires. Fines accumulate daily and the deportation risk is real. Set a calendar reminder 45 days before expiry."
— BZNX PRO Services Team
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