Saudi Residence Permit (Iqama) Explained - 2024 Edition

This blog aims to provide you with a clearer understanding of the Saudi Arabian iqama and Saudi Iqama Fee in detail. Iqama is a residence permit for a expatriate granted by the Saudi government. We’ll cover the different types of iqamas, the requirements for obtaining one, the associated costs, and the importance of having an iqama in Saudi Arabia.

What is an Iqama in Saudi Arabia?

An iqama is a residence permit issued by the Saudi arabia government to foreign workers residing in the kingdom. It serves as an official form of identification for expatriates, granting them access to essential services and legal rights.

Is an Saudi Iqama Necessary to Establish a Business in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, an iqama is essential for foreign investors who want to start a business in Saudi Arabia. Obtaining a ‘Business Iqama’ is a key first step for those aiming to establish and manage a business in the country. This document is vital for navigating the process of setting up a business in Saudi Arabia.

Types of Iqama in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi government issues different types of Saudi iqama (residence permit) based on why someone is staying in the kingdom. Here’s a simple overview of each type:

Professional Class Iqama

This iqama is for people with professional degrees, like doctors, engineers, and teachers, who come to work in skilled jobs. It acts as proof that they are living in Saudi Arabia legally and allows them to access services and rights in the country. Employers must verify the qualifications of these professionals before the iqama is issued.

Dependents Iqama

This iqama is for the family members of expatriates working in Saudi Arabia, such as their spouses, children, and sometimes parents. The main iqama holder sponsors their family members, allowing them to live in the kingdom. However, this type of Saudi iqama doesn’t allow dependents to work unless they get their own work permits.

Government Employees Iqama

This iqama is for foreign workers who are employed by the KSA government. It’s similar to the Professional Class Iqama but is specifically for those working in government roles. It gives them the right to live and work in Saudi Arabia according to their government employment contracts.

Business Iqama

The Business Iqama is for foreign investors and entrepreneurs who want to start or manage a business in Saudi Arabia. It is a key document for anyone. Those involved in business activities in the kingdom. This iqama proves they are living in KSA legally and allows them to run their business.

Special Privileged Iqama (Premium Residency Iqama)

This iqama, also called premium residency iqama, is for investors and skilled professionals. It allows them to live, work, and own property in Saudi Arabia without needing a sponsor. This iqama comes with special benefits, like sponsoring visas for family members and hiring domestic workers. It can be permanent or renewable, depending on the type chosen.

Domestic Worker Iqama

This iqama is for people who work as household help, such as maids, drivers, cooks, and nannies. The employer sponsors the worker and is responsible for issuing and renewing the iqama.

Labor Class Iqama

This iqama is for workers in manual labor jobs, like construction, cleaning, or factory work. The employer sponsors these workers, and the iqama proves they are legally living and working in the kingdom. It also allows them access to necessary services like healthcare.

Each iqama type is designed to meet the specific needs of different groups of expatriates in KSA. Knowing which iqama you need is important to ensure you’re following the rules and making the most of your time in the kingdom.

Saudi Iqama Requirements

To apply for a KSA, expatriates and their sponsoring employers must fulfill several key requirements:

A Valid Employment Contract
The expatriate must have a signed and valid employment contract with a Saudi employer. This contract outlines the terms of employment, including job role, salary, and duration of employment, and serves as a legal agreement between the worker and the employer.

A Clean Medical Certificate Attesting to Good Health
The expatriate must undergo a medical examination and provide a certificate that confirms they are in good health. This certificate is required to ensure that the individual does not have any contagious diseases or medical conditions. That could impact their ability to work or pose a risk to public health in Saudi Arabia.

Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all expatriates in Saudi Arabia. The employer must provide a health insurance policy that covers the worker’s medical needs during their stay in the kingdom. This insurance is crucial for accessing healthcare services and is a prerequisite for iqama approval.

An Active Work Permit
The Person must have an active work permit. This permit legally authorizes the individual to work in KSA and is closely tied to the iqama application process. Without a valid work permit, the iqama cannot be issued.

How to Get a Saudi Iqama

Apply for a Block Visa
Your Saudi employer requests a block visa from the Ministry of Labor and Social Development to reserve a visa slot for you.

Obtain Visa Authorization and Power of Attorney
After the block visa is approved. Your employer obtains a visa authorization number and power of attorney from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Apply for a Work Permit
Your employer applies for a work permit with the Ministry of Labor to confirm your qualifications for the job.

Entry to Saudi Arabia
Once the work permit is approved. You can enter Saudi Arabia and start working.

Iqama Application
Within 90 days of arrival, your employer applies for your iqama, which includes a medical exam, document submission, and biometric data collection.

How Long is a Saudi Iqama Valid?

A Saudi Arabia iqama is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. To ensure it remains valid, you must renew the iqama at least three days before it expires.

How Much Does a Saudi Iqama Cost?

Here are the iqama fees in Saudi Arabia based on the duration of validity:

- 3 Months Saudi Iqama: SR 163

- 6 Months Saudi Iqama: SR 325

- 9 Months Saudi Iqama: SR 488

- 1 Year Saudi Iqama: SR 650

Additional fees include:

- Insurance Fee for 1 Year: SR 600

- GOSI Fee for 1 Year: SR 800

- ATM Card Fee for 1 Year: SR 200

Final Words:

For comprehensive assistance with obtaining your Saudi Residence Permit (Iqama), contact Sony Manpower, the top recruitment agency in Pakistan specializing in KSA. With extensive experience in handling all aspects of the iqama process, Sony Manpower offers expert guidance on visa applications, residency permits, and work-related documentation. Whether you’re seeking a professional iqama, managing dependents, or navigating the complexities of self-employment in KSA, our dedicated team ensures a smooth and efficient process. Reach out to Sony Manpower to leverage our expertise and support for your successful stay and career in Saudi Arabia.

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FAQ:

Is Iqama and Visa the Same?

No, an iqama and a visa are not the same.

- Visa: This document allows a foreign national to enter Saudi Arabia for a specific purpose, such as business, tourism, or other short-term reasons.

- Iqama: This is a residence permit that legally authorizes an expatriate to live and work in Saudi Arabia for an extended period.

Can I Stay in Saudi Arabia Without an Iqama?

No, you cannot stay and work in KSA long-term without an iqama. While a work permit allows you to enter and start working in the country.

Is an Iqama Holder a KSA Citizen?

No, an iqama holder is not a Saudi citizen. An iqama provides legal residency status but does not grant citizenship. It allows expatriates to live and work in Saudi Arabia but does not make them citizens of the country.

Who Can Get an Iqama in KSA?

Any expatriate with a valid job offer from a Ksa company is eligible to apply for an iqama. This includes foreign workers who have secured employment and meet the necessary requirements set by the Saudi authorities.

Who Needs an Iqama in Saudi Arabia?

Anyone planning to live and work in KSA for an extended period needs an iqama. This includes:

- Foreign Employees: People employed by Saudi companies.

- Dependents: Family members of iqama holders living in the kingdom.

- Self-Employed Individuals: Foreigners who run their businesses in Saudi Arabia.

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