Today in this article we will give you the complete information about how the iqama name change in saudi arabia. If you are resident in Saudi Arabia and find an error in your name on the iqama (residency card) then it’s important to fix it as soon as possible. Having the wrong name can cause problems with official paperwork, travel, and job verification.
The good news is that the ministry of interior (MOI) has made it easier to correct your name using online platforms like Absher and Muqeem. This simple guide outlines how to update your iqama name, which platforms to use and the documents required to complete the correction process successfully.
Also Read: Check Iqama Red Green Status
- Why Changing Your Name on Iqama is Important
- Platforms For Iqama Name Change In Saudi Arabia
- How to Change a Resident’s Iqama Name Using the Muqeem Portal
- How to Change a Resident’s Iqama Name Using the Absher Portal
- Important Points to Changing Iqama name
- Important Reasons for Iqama Name Correction
- How Long Does It Take to Change Iqama Name?
- Quicky Access Links
- FAQs About Change Iqama Name In Saudi Arabia
- Conclusion
Why Changing Your Name on Iqama is Important
Having the correct name on your iqama is very important for the given points below.
- Applying for and renewing your visa
- Opening and managing bank accounts
- Travelling international and passing immigration checks
- Receiving your salary and keeping your job records correct
- Getting healthcare and insurance services
Even a small spelling mistake can lead to service delay. That’s why the Saudi government makes it easy for residents to update the translated name on their iqama through online systems.
Also Read: Change Iqama Picture in Saudi Arabia
Platforms For Iqama Name Change In Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has introduced two main online platforms to make residency related services easy to use and access.
- Muqeem Platform: Mainly used by employers and HR departments.
- Absher Platform: Available to individuals, residents, and citizens for many Ministry of Interior (MOI) services.
Both platforms also allow users to update the translated name on their iqama.
How to Change a Resident’s Iqama Name Using the Muqeem Portal
If you are an employer and HR officer managing residency matters then you can update a resident’s iqama name through the Muqeem portal by following these points.
- Step 01: Go to the official Muqeem Website (muqeem.sa).
- Step 02: Login using the employer’s username and password.
- Step 03: Click the “Login” button.
- Step 04: Search for the resident by entering their iqama number.
- Step 05: Open the residents profile.
- Step 06: Choose “Passport Services” from the menu.
- Step 07: Click on “Edit Translated Name”.
Then, follow on the screen instructions to finish updating your name.
Important: Make sure the new name which you enter exactly matches the name on the resident’s passport. Any mismatch may lead to rejection.
How to Change a Resident’s Iqama Name Using the Absher Portal
If you are an employer and HR officer managing residency matters then you can update a resident’s iqama name through the Muqeem portal by following these points.
- Step 01: Go to the official Absher website absher.sa.
- Step 02: Log in using your username / iqama number and passport.
- Step 03: Click the “Login” button.
- Step 04: Go to the “Service” section.
- Step 05: Select “Labour Services”. Step 06: Click on “Muqeem Identity Services”.
- Step 07: Find and choose the resident profile you want to update.
- Step 08: Edit the translated name to match your passport and confirm the update.
Important Points to Changing Iqama name
To make sure your request is successful then follow the some important points given below.
- Ensure that your name is entered exactly as it is printed on your passport.
- You may need to upload a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page.
- Access to the muqeem system is limited to sponsors and employers only.
- Individuals can use Absher if they have access and the feature is turned on.
Also Read: Download Jawazat Form For Iqama Renewal For Saudi
Important Reasons for Iqama Name Correction
- Name was misspelled during initial issuance.
- Incorrect Arabic to English transliteration.
- Name change due to marriage, divorce, and a legal decision.
- Mismatch between documents such as visa, passport, and iqama.
How Long Does It Take to Change Iqama Name?
If all the information is submitted correctly then the name change process usually takes 3 to 7 business days. This may take longer if there are any issues with the documents. Once the update is done then you will get a notification via sms and on your Absher dashboard.
Quicky Access Links
| Platform | Purpose | Link |
| Muqeem | For employers and sponsors to change iqama name | muqeem.sa |
| Absher | For individuals to manage iqama service | absher.sa |
FAQs About Change Iqama Name In Saudi Arabia
What is the procedure to update your name on the iqama in Saudi Arabia?
What are the latest rules for iqama change in Saudi Arabia?
From March 2021, you no longer need your employer’s permission to leave Saudi Arabia, change jobs, and transfer sponsorship. These changes give workers more freedom and reduce dependency on employers.
What is the cost to change profession in Iqama?
To change your iqama profession online then you must pay a fee of 1000 Saudi Riyals. In most cases, this fee is covered by Saudi Labour Law. So your employer is usually responsible for paying it.
Also Read: What Is an Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
Conclusion
The iqama name correction service is part of Saudi Arabia’s digital effort to improve life for both residents and expatriates. If you are correcting a minor spelling error which reflects a legally changed name then updating your iqama is essential. The Muqeem and Absher platforms offer a quick and easy way to do it.
Make sure the name you enter matches your passport exactly, including any spaces and special characters. If you are not sure what to do and face any problem then it’s best to contact the Jawazat (Passport Office) and speak with your sponsor for help.