Are you living in Saudi Arabia and need to change iqama picture on your resident card? So don’t worry because today’s article guide will help you understand everything about changing your iqama photo in easy words.
What is Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
An iqama in Saudi Arabia is like an ID card for people who live there but are not Saudi citizens. The saudi iqama shows your picture, name, and other important details. Sometimes, you might need a new picture because your current appearance has changed and your old iqama photo does not look like you anymore.
- What is Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
- Why You Might Need to Change Picture on Your Iqama Card
- Where to Change Your Iqama Photo
- What Documents You Need
- Step-by-Step Process to Change Iqama Picture
- Iqama Renewal and Picture Changes
- Other Iqama Services You Should Know
- Important Information About Resident Services
- Working with Manpower Recruitment Agencies
- Tips for a Smooth Process
- Conclusion
- Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ’s)
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Why You Might Need to Change Picture on Your Iqama Card
There are many reasons why people want to change iqama picture to all the points given below.
Your personal photo is very old Your look different now than in your current picture Your iqama photo is unclear and damaged You need an updated photo for other services Your new picture will help you get better services
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Where to Change Your Iqama Photo
Visit the Jawazat Office
The main place to change picture on your saudi iqama is at a jawazat office. These offices are run by the general director of passport in the kingdom of saudi arabia. You can find a jawazat office in every city including the eastern province.
When you go to the jawazat office then an immigration officer helps you. Make sure you bring all your original documents with you. The immigration officer checks your all papers and helps you with the step by step process. If you need jawazat form for iqama then read it.
Using The Absher Platform
The Absher platform is a great way to do many things online. You can visit the absher.sa on your computer and use their mobile app on your phone. The Absher platform helps people in Saudi Arabia do government work from home. Through the absher platform then you can:
- Check your iqama status
- Book appointment with jawazat
- Download digital iqama online
- Use query iqama expiry service to check when your card expires
- Query iqama expiry service again if needed
KSA Online Services
KSA online services make life easier for residents. You can use a KSA online to check many things about your iqama. KSA online also helps you prepare before visiting government offices.
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What Documents You Need
Before you change iqama picture then gather these important documents which are given below.
- Your current iqama card
- A valid passport (make sure it’s not expired)
- Recent passport size photos
- Your National ID if you have one
- Any family visa documents if needed
Make sure all your original documents are ready. Keep them in a safe place before your visit.
Step-by-Step Process to Change Iqama Picture
Step 01: Prepare Your New Picture
Take a new picture that shows your picture clearly and your personal photo should be recent and match your current appearance. The personal photo must follow Saudi rules for official pictures.
Step 02: Make a Prior Appointment
It is smart to make a prior appointment before going to the jawazat office. You can book an appointment through Absher platform and by calling the jawazat appointment line. This saves your time and makes sure you get help during your allotted time.
Step 03: Visits the Passport Department
Go to the Passport Department Office on your appointment day. The passport department workers will help you fill out the application form. You might need to fill out the application form twice – once for the picture change and once for the other updates.
Step 04: Pay the Fees
Changing your iqama photo costs some Saudi Riyals. The exact amount of Saudi riyals depends on what services you need. Ask the staff about the cost before you start.
Step 05: Wait for Processing
After you give your updated photo and papers then wait for the staff to process everything. They will check your iqama status and make sure everything is correct.
Iqama Renewal and Picture Changes
Sometimes, people change iqama picture when they renew iqama. Iqama renewal happens every few years and this is a good time to update your picture. During iqama renewal then you can also check your iqama validity to make sure everything is current.
If you need to renew iqama then you can do both services at the same time. This method saves your time and money.
Other Iqama Services You Should Know
Change Iqama Name Services
Besides changing pictures, you might also need to change iqama name. Change iqama name services helps if your name is spelled wrong and if you got married and change your name.
Iqama Status Checking
You can check your iqama status online anytime. Checking your iqama status helps you know if there are any problems with your card then your iqama status also shows when your card will expire.
Final Exit Procedure
If you are planning to live in Saudi Arabia forever then you need to complete final exit procedures. Final exit services are different from regular travel. For final exit, you need to visit the government offices and complete special paperwork. The final exit process also affects your iqama card and final exit status.
Important Information About Resident Services
Resident services in Saudi Arabia help people who live there with many different needs. These services are included below.
- Helping with family visa applications
- Processing family visit visa requests
- Managing exit re-entry visa needs
- Checking stamping status on documents
- Providing legal status information
- Helping with driving license applications
For driving license services then you can visit many locations across Saudi Arabia. Getting a driving license requires different steps but having a clear iqama photo helps with all government services.
Working with Manpower Recruitment Agencies
Many people in Saudi Arabia work with manpower recruitment agencies. If you work with manpower recruitment companies, having an updated iqama is very important. Manpower recruitment agencies help workers find jobs, and they often need to see your current ID.
The best manpower recruitment agency companies in Saudi Arabia require workers to have clear, recent photos on their iqama cards. Best manpower recruitment agency services include helping with Saudi temporary work visa applications. If you need a Saudi temporary work visa then make sure your iqama photo is current.
Some manpower recruitment agencies also help with other services. Good manpower recruitment companies will tell you when you need to update your documents. Many manpower recruitment agencies work closely with government offices to help their workers.
Working with professional manpower recruitment services makes the job process easier. Choose manpower recruitment agencies that have good reviews and proper licenses. The best manpower recruitment companies will guide you through all the steps you need.
When looking for manpower recruitment help, ask about their experience with government services. Good manpower recruitment agencies know about iqama requirements and can help you prepare your documents correctly.
Tips for a Smooth Process
Here are some helpful tips to make changing your iqama photo easier.
- Check Your Iqama Number: Make sure you know your iqama number before you visit any office.
- Bering Your Iqama ID: Always carry your iqama ID when visiting government offices.
- Have Your Email Address Ready: Some services might send information to your email address.
- Call Absher Support: If you have questions then you can call absher for help.
Conclusion
Changing your iqama photo in saudi arabia doesn’t have to be hard. Whether you have to visit a jawazat office, use the absher platform, and get help from professional services, the most important thing is to prepare your documents correctly.
Remember to bring your valid passport, recent photos, and any other papers you might need. Make your appointment ahead of time and don’t forget to ask about fees in Saudi riyals.
Your updated iqama will help you with many services in Saudi Arabia, from getting a driving license to working with employers. Keep your iqama card safe and update it whenever needed.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ’s)
How much does it cost to change iqama picture?
The cost to change your iqama photo varies but it usually costs between 100-300 saudi riyals. The exact amount depends on which services you need and which office you visit. Some locations might charge different fees, So it is best to ask about the cost when you book an appointment and visit the jawazat office.
How long does it take to get my new iqama card with an updated photo?
After you submit your new picture and documents then it usually takes 3-7 working days to get your updated iqama card. If you visit during busy times, it might take a little longer. You can check your iqama status online through the Absher platform to see if your new card is ready for pickup.
Can I change my iqama photo online without visiting the jawazat office?
Currently, you cannot complete the entire process online. While you can use the Absher platform to check your iqama status, download digital iqama online, and book appointments, you still need to visit the jawazat office in person to submit your new picture and original documents. The immigration officers need to verify your identity and process your application form in person.