If you’re an expatriate living and working in Saudi Arabia, your Iqama (residence permit) is your essential legal identification. Any mismatch or incorrect detail, especially your name can create hurdles in banking, travel, visa processing, and official transactions. If you’re searching for how to change name in iqama saudi arabia, this detailed guide will walk you through the process for 2025, ensuring your name matches your passport and all government records.
Why Is Name Accuracy on Iqama Important?
- Legal Consistency: A discrepancy can result in legal complications or denied government services.
- Banking & Finance: Banks may refuse to open accounts or process transactions if your Iqama name doesn’t match your passport.
- Travel: Airport security and visa authorities may deny travel if names are inconsistent.
- Official Transactions: Issues in obtaining police clearance, family visas, and other certificates.
Documents Required for Changing Name in Iqama
Before starting the name change process, ensure you have:
- Photocopy of your current Iqama
- Photocopy of your passport (with the correct name)
- Original passport and Iqama
- Passport size photographs
- Copy of your visa on arrival/entry
- Birth certificate (and translation, if required)
- Copies of old and new passports (if applicable)
- Form 203 (the name correction form from Jawazat)
- Support letter from your employer or sponsor (sometimes required)
How to Change Name in Iqama Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Process
1. Contact Your HR or Government Relations Officer (GRO)
- All Iqama changes must be processed through your employer’s authorized representative.
- Provide all supporting documents to HR/GRO and clarify the reason for the correction.
2. Correction Method Depends on the Type of Name Error
A. English Name Correction
- The HR/GRO will log in to the Muqeem portal (for sponsors and organizations only).
- Select your profile using your Iqama number.
- Choose “Edit Translated Name” or similar service.
- Update your English name as per your passport.
- Confirm and submit.
- Pay any required fees.
- A new Iqama with the corrected name will be printed and issued within a few days.
B. Arabic Name Correction
- Simple corrections may also be made through the Muqeem portal.
- If not possible online, the HR/GRO needs to visit the Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports) office.
- At the Jawazat, submit Form 203 and all relevant documents.
- The process may require a physical appointment or Mandoob (company representative) to be present at Jawazat.
- Once approved, the Iqama is usually reprinted the same or next day.
3. Corrections Via the Absher Platform
- Login to the Absher portal (certain services available for family heads or employees).
- Go to “Labour Services” or “Muqeem Identity Services.”
- Select the resident and update the name as per the platform instructions.
- Submit the request and wait for approval.
4. Receive the Updated Iqama
- Once approved, your new Iqama can often be collected within a day or two.
- Always verify that your new Iqama exactly matches your passport.
5. Special Notes & Tips
- For non-Arabic names, ensure transliteration into Arabic is correct and matches your passport.
- Some offices may require a letter from your embassy, especially for significant changes.
- Processing time: Typically a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity.
- Follow up with your HR/GRO and check your status on the Absher or Muqeem portal for updates.
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
| Long processing time | Regularly follow-up with GRO/HR, ensure all documents are submitted correctly |
| Discrepancy in Arabic/English spelling | Double-check passport details and Arabic transliteration |
| Request denied by Jawazat | Seek clarification, get support letter from employer, and correct any incomplete paperwork |
Still Confused on How to Change Name in Iqama Saudi Arabia?
Successfully navigating Saudi Arabia’s legal and bureaucratic processes, whether it’s changing your Iqama name or managing broader compliance requirements, requires deep local knowledge and systematic support.
DuVolks positions itself as a strategic partner for expatriates and businesses by handling paperwork, permits, government registrations, and regulatory tasks end-to-end. Get in touch today.
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