Absher Guide 2026 — How to Use Absher as an Expat in Saudi Arabia
Absher (أبشر) is Saudi Arabia's official government digital platform at absher.sa — available as a web portal and mobile app. Expats use it to renew Iqama, apply for exit/re-entry visas, track dependent status, update contact info, and access 165+ government services without visiting offices. Registration requires your Iqama number and a Saudi mobile number.
What is Absher?
Absher (أبشر — meaning "good news" in Arabic) is Saudi Arabia's unified e-government platform, managed by the Ministry of Interior (MOI). Launched in 2015 and massively expanded under Vision 2030, Absher has transformed how Saudi citizens and residents interact with government services. Instead of visiting multiple government offices, nearly all immigration and residency services can now be handled online.
For expats living in Saudi Arabia, Absher is not optional — it is essential. Your Iqama renewal, exit visa, driving license, and even your work permit are all managed through this single platform.
How to Register on Absher as an Expat
Registration is straightforward but requires a few things to be in place first. You will need your Iqama number, an active Saudi SIM card (the OTP is sent to a Saudi number), and basic personal details.
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Go to absher.sa or download the Absher Afrad app Available on iOS App Store and Google Play. "Absher Afrad" is for individuals — "Absher Amal" is for businesses.
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Select "Non-Saudi" and enter your Iqama number Your 10-digit Iqama number is printed on the front of your Iqama card.
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Enter your date of birth (Hijri format) The system uses Hijri (Islamic calendar) dates. Use an online Hijri converter if needed — your birth year in Hijri is approximately your Gregorian year minus 579.
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Enter your Saudi mobile number and verify the OTP This is why a Saudi SIM card is mandatory. The OTP expires in 3 minutes.
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Create your username and password Use a strong password. Note: Absher locks accounts after 5 failed login attempts.
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Log in and complete your profile Add your email address and review your registered details for accuracy.
Key Services Available to Expats on Absher
Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your Iqama on Absher
Iqama renewal is the most-used feature for expats. Here is the exact process:
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Log in to Absher and go to "My Services" Find the "Iqama Renewal" option under the Residency Services section.
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Check your Iqama expiry date and renewal eligibility You can renew up to 90 days before expiry. You cannot renew if your employer has "frozen" your Iqama or if there are unpaid government fines.
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Confirm your details are correct Sponsor name, profession, and personal details should match your Iqama. Report any errors to your employer's HR department before renewing.
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Pay the renewal fee (SAR 650) Accepted methods: Mada (Saudi debit card), Visa, Mastercard. Payment is processed instantly.
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Download your digital Iqama Your renewed Iqama is immediately valid digitally. The physical card is available for collection if needed, but the digital version is legally accepted.
How to Apply for Exit/Re-entry Visa on Absher
Since the Kafala reforms of 2021, most private sector workers can now apply for their own exit and re-entry visas through Absher without needing employer approval. Here is how:
- Log in → My Services → Exit & Re-entry Visa
- Select Single Exit/Re-entry or Multiple Exit/Re-entry
- Choose the validity period (3, 6, or 12 months for multiple exit)
- Pay the applicable fee (see our Exit Visa Cost Calculator for current fees)
- The visa is issued digitally and is immediately valid
Absher Amal — For Business Owners
If you own a business or manage HR for a company in Saudi Arabia, Absher Amal is the business equivalent. It allows employers to manage employee visas, issue exit permissions, track workforce Iqama statuses, and submit requests to HRSD — all in one portal. It is separate from the personal Absher Afrad account.