The Complete Guide to Family Iqama Fees in Saudi Arabia

For expatriates living and working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Iqama is the cornerstone of legal residency. It not only serves as proof of your right to live and work in the Kingdom but also determines your ability to sponsor your family members.

This blog provides a comprehensive breakdown of the family iqama fees in Saudi Arabia, the renewal process, and essential tips for expatriate families.

What is a Family Iqama?

The Family Iqama is a residency permit issued to the dependent family members (spouse and children) of expatriate workers in Saudi Arabia.

While the principal expatriate holds a work permit, each dependent must have individual Iqama cards, allowing them to access vital services such as healthcare, education, and banking.

Importantly, dependents on a family iqama cannot work unless they secure their own sponsorship and separate work permits.

Family Iqama Fees in Saudi Arabia

1. Dependent Iqama (Levy) Fee

Amount: SAR 400 per month per dependent (SAR 4,800 per year).

Who Pays: The primary expatriate employee is responsible for paying this fee for each family member they sponsor.

When Paid: On application, and upon renewal (can be paid quarterly, semi-annually, or annually).

Payment Methods: Online banking (e.g., SNB, Al Ahli, Al Rajhi), the Absher portal, or Jawazat offices.

2. Iqama Issuance/Renewal Fee (for the employee)

Amount: SAR 650 per year for issuance or renewal of the principal expatriate’s iqama.

Who Pays: Generally covered by the sponsoring employer as per Saudi labor law.

3. Additional Costs

Work Permit Fee (Maktab Amal/Expat Levy): SAR 800 per month for each foreign worker (paid by employer).

Mandatory Health Insurance: The cost varies based on provider and coverage, but proof is required for each iqama application.

Family Iqama Renewal Fees in Saudi Arabia

The family iqama renewal fees are identical to initial issuance costs. The dependent levy of SAR 400 per month per dependent must be paid again for every renewal period selected (3, 6, 9 months, or annually).

Renewal Options:

3 months: SAR 1,200 per dependent
6 months: SAR 2,400 per dependent
9 months: SAR 3,600 per dependent
12 months: SAR 4,800 per dependent

You can pay these fees online using major Saudi banks or the Absher portal.

Step-by-Step: How to Pay Family Iqama Fees

Log in to your online banking (SNB, Al Ahli, Al Rajhi) or the Absher portal.
Navigate to Government Payments.
Choose “Alien Control” (for government payments related to iqama).
Select “Associate Fee for Dependents”.
Enter relevant information (Iqama number, duration, number of dependents).
Verify fee amount and personal details, then confirm payment.

Validity and Renewal Rules

Iqamas are generally valid for up to one year, with quarterly renewal options now available.

If your family’s iqama expires, you must pay the renewal fee promptly or face fines.

All dependent fees must be paid in advance for the entire period being renewed.

Renewal can be done even if dependents are outside Saudi Arabia, as long as initiated by the sponsor.

Important Points & Exemptions

Domestic Workers: Certain domestic workers are exempt from the expat levy but still require standard iqama and insurance payments.

Small Businesses: Specific small businesses may enjoy exemptions or reduced rates for work permit fees, though dependent levy remains applicable.

Delayed Renewal: Late renewal attracts penalties, starting at SAR 500 for the first offense, and increases for repeated delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can dependents work in Saudi Arabia under a family iqama?
No, they must obtain separate work authorization.

Q: Are there any age or qualification criteria for dependents?
Standard documentation includes proof of kinship (marriage/birth certificate), medical fitness, and a valid passport.

Q: Are the first 90 days free for dependents?
Yes, newly arrived dependents get the first 90 days without the monthly levy, after which SAR 400/month applies.

Secure Your Family’s Residency with Confidence

Keeping your family’s residency status in good standing is crucial for a smooth life in Saudi Arabia. Ensure you are up to date on the family iqama fees in Saudi Arabia and handle your family iqama renewal fees in Saudi Arabia promptly to avoid fines and disruptions.

Ready for a hassle-free family iqama management experience?

For expert assistance and dedicated expatriate solutions, contact DuVolks today. Let DuVolks handle the bureaucracy, so you can focus on what truly matters: your family’s future in Saudi Arabia.

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Author Bio

Salman Thorop is the Founder of DuVolks, with a deep-rooted presence in Saudi Arabia since 2009. His entrepreneurial journey began in 2014 when he established his business under the SAGIA (now MISA) license. A compliance expert by profession, Salman has developed extensive expertise in Saudi Arabia’s regulatory landscape and specializes in business setup and PRO services. He maintains a keen understanding of government initiatives and policy changes through active engagement with official Saudi government Twitter handles.