📅 May 2026 · 6 min read · Source: jawazat.gov.sa

Iqama Renewal 2026 — Fees, Process & Late Penalties

A complete guide to renewing your iqama in Saudi Arabia: the official amounts, the step-by-step Absher process, and how to avoid penalties.

Quick check: use the free Iqama Tracker to see how many days are left before your iqama expires.

What is the iqama?

The iqama is the official ID document for foreign residents in Saudi Arabia. By law, expats must carry it at all times, and it is required to open bank accounts, use government services, rent housing, transfer money, and access healthcare.

Iqama renewal fees 2026

Fee typeAmount (SAR)Note
Iqama renewal (one year)SAR 650All professions and nationalities
Late renewal penaltySAR 500/monthFor each month of delay
Lost iqama replacementSAR 200Requires a police report first
Dependent levy (per dependent)SAR 400/monthSeparate from the renewal fee
⚠️ Important: the late penalty is SAR 500 per month — not a one-off fee. A 3-month delay = SAR 1,500 in extra penalties on top of the renewal fee. Renew before expiry.

How to renew your iqama via Absher

  1. Log in to Absher — download the Absher app (iOS/Android) or visit absher.sa. Sign in with your Nafath ID or iqama number.
  2. Check eligibility — Absher will show your renewal eligibility. Any outstanding financial violations must be settled before renewing.
  3. Pay the renewal fee — SAR 650 via SADAD, bank transfer, or a card linked to your Saudi bank account.
  4. Get confirmation — confirmation arrives instantly by SMS, and the iqama validity is updated in the electronic system.
  5. Physical card (optional) — print from Absher or visit a government service center (appointment) to update the physical iqama card.
✅ Tip: set a reminder 60 days before your iqama expires. Use the Iqama Tracker to count the remaining days automatically.

What happens if the iqama expires?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does iqama renewal cost in 2026? ▼
The standard one-year iqama renewal fee is SAR 650. A SAR 500 penalty is added for each month the renewal is delayed.
Can I renew the iqama without my employer? ▼
Iqama renewal is legally the employer's (sponsor's) responsibility. However, the employee may be able to start the process via Absher if the sponsor grants the needed permissions. If the employer is unresponsive, you can file a complaint via hrsd.gov.sa.
Can I travel if my iqama has expired? ▼
No. An exit or re-entry visa cannot be issued if the iqama has expired. You must renew the iqama first. For emergencies, contact Jawazat at jawazat.gov.sa.

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🪪 Iqama Tracker👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Dependent Levy✈️ Exit Visa Cost

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Sources: Jawazat / Absher Iqama renewal fee schedule and process guidance. Figures and rules are set by the issuing authority and may change — verify current details on the official portal before relying on them. Last reviewed: June 2026.

⚠️ Disclaimer: All results are estimates based on publicly available Saudi government regulations and rates. Always verify important financial or legal decisions with your employer, bank, or the relevant Saudi authority (Ministry of Human Resources, GOSI, ZATCA, Jawazat, or SAMA).