In Saudi Arabia, foreign residents holding iqamas (residency permits) now have the option to change their photo on the document, as per recent directives from Saudi authorities.
To initiate this process, individuals are required to schedule an appointment with the Saudi General Directorate of Passports. However, it's essential that the applicant's passport remains valid and includes a recent photo with the head uncovered, as specified by the directorate.
Expatriates residing in the kingdom can conveniently access digital services through the government Absher platform, enabling them to renew iqamas for themselves, their dependents, and registered domestic workers.
The iqama renewal process entails payment of applicable fees, clearance of any outstanding traffic violations, and possession of a valid passport for the beneficiary. Additionally, the beneficiary should not be listed as absent from work.
For the renewal process to proceed smoothly, the system must have fingerprints of the family head and dependents aged over six years, each with their respective passports registered.
Expatriates in Saudi Arabia are granted three-month residency permits with an option for renewal for the same duration. A notable convenience introduced in 2021 allows individuals to store a digital copy of their iqama on their smartphones.
The quarterly renewal option also extends to dependents, facilitating payment of fees on a quarterly basis. Saudi Arabia offers flexibility in fee payments, allowing iqama fees to be settled quarterly or biannually through a government payment system.
With a population of approximately 32.2 million, Saudi Arabia hosts a significant expatriate community, comprising around 13.4 million individuals, accounting for 41.5% of the overall population, as per recent census data.
In recent times, Saudi authorities have implemented various measures to enhance facilities for expatriates. Notably, foreign residents with exit/re-entry visas can now return to the kingdom until the expiration date of their visas.
