Iqama Renewal in Saudi ArabiaProcess, Fees & Timeline (2026)
Your iqama (إقامة) is your Saudi Arabia residence permit and the most important document you hold as an expat. This guide explains who is responsible for renewal, how much it costs, the step-by-step process through the Muqeem portal, and what happens if it expires.
How does iqama renewal work in Saudi Arabia?
Iqama renewal is the employer's legal responsibility. Your employer (sponsor/kafeel) must renew your iqama annually through the Muqeem portal before the expiry date. The core renewal fee is SAR 650 per year for private-sector workers (SAR 600 for domestic/agricultural), on top of which employers pay a separate work-permit levy and any Saudisation levy. An expired iqama triggers a late-renewal penalty and restricts your ability to travel, access services, and remain legally in the Kingdom.
Renewal Frequency
Annual (or biannual)
Core Fee
SAR 650/year (professional)
Processing Time
Immediate once complete
Responsible Party
Employer (kafeel)
Iqama renewal fee breakdown
| Fee / requirement | Who pays | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Iqama renewal fee | Employer | Core government fee (SAR 650/year professional, SAR 600 domestic/agricultural) |
| Work permit / Maktab Amal levy | Employer | Varies by company status |
| Health insurance | Employer | Must be active before renewal |
| Late penalty | Responsible party may depend on cause | Confirm in Absher/Jawazat |
Use the iqama fee calculator for an itemised estimate based on your profession and company status.
Iqama Renewal Process — Step by Step
The iqama renewal process is managed primarily by the employer. Here is what happens at each stage:
- 1
HR checks iqama expiry date (30–60 days before)
Your company's HR department should track all iqama expiry dates. As an employee, set a reminder 60 days before your expiry date and notify HR if they haven't started the process.
- 2
Employer logs into Muqeem portal
The employer accesses the Muqeem portal (muqeem.sa) using their business credentials. They select your file and initiate the renewal request.
- 3
Pay iqama renewal fees
Fees are paid online via the Muqeem portal. Total cost includes the iqama renewal fee, any applicable Saudisation levy, and other HRSD fees. Payments are via SADAD bill payment or credit card.
- 4
Health insurance verification
CCHI-compliant health insurance must be active for the full renewal period. The system cross-checks the insurance database automatically. If insurance has lapsed, it must be renewed first.
- 5
Iqama is updated digitally
The official renewal service is listed as immediate once requirements and payments are complete. The digital resident identity updates after approval and can be accessed via the Absher app. For physical card services, use Absher/Jawazat channels or your employer's government-relations process.
- 6
Download or collect updated iqama
Download your digital iqama from the Absher app (iOS / Android). For physical card services, use Absher/Jawazat channels or your employer's PRO/government-relations process.
What Happens if Your Iqama Expires
- Late-renewal penalties may apply
- Travel and government services may be blocked
- Repeated or serious violations can lead to enforcement action
- Confirm your status in Absher and speak to HRSD or a qualified adviser
If your employer refuses to renew despite legal responsibility, raise the issue through HRSD/Qiwa labor channels or contact HRSD support at 19911. Domestic workers should check Musaned.
Iqama Renewal — FAQs
Who is responsible for renewing an iqama in Saudi Arabia?
Iqama renewal is legally the employer's (kafeel's) responsibility. The employer initiates and pays for renewal through the Muqeem portal. Employees should track expiry dates and remind HR at least 1 month in advance.
How much does iqama renewal cost in Saudi Arabia?
The core renewal fee is SAR 650 per year for private-sector (professional) workers and SAR 600 for domestic/agricultural workers. Employers also pay a separate work-permit (Maktab Amal) levy and any Saudisation levy. Use our iqama fee calculator for an itemised estimate. The fee is paid by the employer.
What happens if my iqama expires?
Late-renewal penalties may apply, and travel and government services may be blocked. Repeated or serious violations can lead to enforcement action. Notify your HR department immediately, confirm your status in Absher, and speak to HRSD or a qualified adviser if your employer is uncooperative.
How long does iqama renewal take?
The official renewal service is listed as immediate once requirements and payments are complete; employer processing and prerequisite checks can add time. The digital resident identity updates after approval. For physical card services, use Absher/Jawazat channels or your employer's government-relations process.
Can I renew my iqama without my employer?
Generally no. Iqama renewal requires employer sponsorship. If your employer refuses to renew despite legal responsibility, raise the issue through HRSD/Qiwa labor channels or contact HRSD support at 19911. Domestic workers should check Musaned. Saudi labour law protects employees from employers withholding iqama renewal.