Iqama is a very important document in Saudi arabia. It is like an id for individuals who come from other countries to work there. If you want to work in Saudi Arabia then you must have an iqama for a long term stay.
The iqama expiry check shows that you are eligible to live and work in saudi arabia legally because without iqama you can’t stay in saudi arabia for a long time because iqama is like a permission slip that tells you. “Yes, this person can work here.”
Thousands of people from India, Pakistan, and other countries need an iqama to work in Saudi arabia. The Saudi Arabia government issues this document to workers who follow all the rules and regulations.
Saudi Arabia Iqama Application Steps
Getting an iqama is not a difficult task. Just you have to follow some right steps. There are five easy steps you must complete. Every step is important, so make sure that you cannot skip any of them.
The iqama complete process takes some time. So you need to be patient. Some steps happen in your own country and some happen after you reach Saudi arabia.
Applying for an Iqama in Saudi Arabia
When you apply for an iqama then you are asking the saudi government to let you work there. This process is very serious to make sure that you must be honest and careful with all your documents.
To apply for jawazat iqama renewal then you need many documents like your passport, photos, and health certificates. Make sure that all your papers are real and correct and any wrong information can cause problems.
Process to Obtain an Iqama Visa in Saudi Arabia
The process to get an iqama visa has five easy steps. All the steps given below.
Step 1: Apply for a Block Visa
First, your employer in Saudi Arabia must apply for something called a “block visa”. This is like asking permission to bring workers from another country. The employer does this step, not you. They tell the Saudi government how many workers they need and what kind of work they will do.
Step 2: Complete Visa Authorization and Power of Attorney
You need to give permission to someone to help you with the visa process. This is called “Power Of Attorney”. You sign papers that say someone can work on your visa application for you. This person is usually from a company that helps with visas.
Step 3: Submit Work Visa Application
Now you can apply for your work visa. You must need to give many documents like:
- Your Passport
- Photos of Yourself
- Health Check Reports
- Educational Certificates
- Work Experience Letters
Make sure all these papers are translated into Arabic if they are in other languages.
Step 4: Enter Saudi Arabia and Begin Work
After you get your work visa then you can travel to Saudi arabia. When you arrive then you will start working for your employer. This is an excellent time but remember that you still need to complete one more step to get your iqama.
Step 5: Apply for Work Permit and Iqama
The last steps happen after you start working in Saudi arabia. Your employer will help you apply for your work permit and iqama. You will need to do a medical checkup in Saudi arabia. You will also give your fingerprints and take new photos. This usually takes a few weeks to complete.
Iqama and Work Visa Validity Period
Your iqama is not permanent. It has an expiration date, just like your passport. Most iqamas are valid for one and two years. Before your iqama expires then you need to renew it. Your employer will assist you with this process.
If you don’t renew it on time then you might face problems. The work visa is usually valid for three months. This gives you enough time to enter Saudi Arabia and apply for your iqama.
Iqama Fees in Saudi Arabia
Getting an iqama costs money. The fees change sometimes. So it is best to check the current prices.
| Iqama Renewal And Issue Fees | SAR 650 Annually |
| Work Permit Fees | SAR 800 Monthly |
| Sponsored Dependent Fees | SAR 400 Monthly Per Dependent |
Usually, your employer pays most of these fees. But sometimes, workers need to pay some costs themselves. Ask your employer about who will pay what fees.
The main fees include:
- Visa processing fees
- Medical check fees
- Iqama card fees
- Government processing fees
How Horizons Supports The Iqama Process
Horizons is a company that helps people to get their iqama. They know all the rules and can make the process easier for you. They help with paperwork, talk to government offices and make sure everything is done correctly. This saves your time and reduces mistakes.
If you are confused about any step then horizons can explain everything in simple words. They help many people get their iqama successfully.
FAQ About The Iqama Application in Saudi Arabia
What is Labour Outsourcing Arbitrage?
Labour outsourcing arbitrage is when companies hire workers from other countries because its cost lets money. Many Saudi companies do this to save money while getting good workers. This is why many people from Pakistan, India, and other countries get jobs in Saudi arabia.
How Can I Check My Iqama Status?
You can check your iqama status online. The Saudi government has a website where you can see if your application is approved and still being processed. You need your passport number and application number to check the status. Your employer can also help you check this.
How Long Does Iqama Approval Take?
Iqama approval usually takes 2-8 weeks after you arrive in Saudi arabia. Sometimes it can take longer if there are problems with your documents. The medical checkup and fingerprints usually takes 1-2 weeks. After that, the government needs some time to process your documents.
What Are The Requirements For Iqama?
To get a iqama, you need
- A valid passport
- A job offer from saudi employer
- Good health (proven by medical tests)
- Clean criminal record
- Educational certificates
- Previous work experience (if required for your job)
All documents must be real and translated into arabic.
Conclusion
To get an iqama in Saudi Arabia is an important step for anyone who wants to work there. While the process has many steps, it is not impossible if you follow the rules and regulations carefully. Remember to be patient and honest throughout the process. Keep all your documents safe and make copies of everything.
If you need help, companies like Horizons can guide you through each step with proper preparation and right help. Then you can successfully get your iqama and start your new job in Saudi arabia. These documents will allow you to work legally and build a good future for yourself and your family.