Staying updated with your Iqama expiry date is crucial for every expatriate in Saudi Arabia to maintain legal residency and avoid penalties. The good news: Saudi Arabia has made it easy to check your Iqama (residency permit) status both online and offline.
Below is an in-depth guide on how to check Iqama expiry date in Saudi Arabia.
Why You Need to Check Your Iqama Expiry Regularly
- Legal Compliance: Failure to renew your Iqama before expiry can result in hefty fines and even deportation.
- Access to Services: Many services like banking, health, travel, and government interactions require a valid Iqama.
- Peace of Mind: Regular checks prevent last-minute panic and possible disruptions to your life and work.
1. Checking Iqama Expiry Date Online
A. Via the Ministry of Labor (MoL) Portal
This is the easiest way on how to check iqama validity in Saudi Arabia, even if you don’t have an Absher account.
Steps:
- Visit the MoL Portal: Go to the Ministry of Labour’s official website.
- Select Language: Choose ‘English’ for accessibility.
- Enter Details: Input your Iqama number, passport number, or border number and your date of birth (in Gregorian or Hijri format).
- Complete Captcha: Enter the security code as shown.
- View Status: Click ‘Next.’ The following page will display your Iqama expiry date along with your personal details and current status.
Why Use This Method?
- No Absher account needed.
- Provides both Hijri and Gregorian dates.
- Shows red/green Nitaqat status (employer compliance). It is important to know how to check Iqama green or red in Saudi Arabia
B. Through the Absher Portal
If you have an Absher account, this is the official government platform for most e-services.
Steps:
- Access Absher: Go to the portal or open the mobile app.
- Login: Enter your username/Iqama number and password.
- OTP Verification: Submit the OTP sent to your registered mobile.
- Find Iqama Service: Select ‘Query Iqama Expiry Service’ from the dashboard or menu.
- Get Expiry Info: Your expiry date and status will appear on screen.
C. Using the Absher Mobile App
You can check your Iqama status by logging into the Absher app and navigating to “MY IQAMA” or “Digital Documents.” The steps are similar to using the web version.
- iOS and Android: Download the app, log in, complete biometric or OTP, and find your digital Iqama card with expiry details.
D. Without Absher: SMS Method
A simple SMS can get you your Iqama validity, even if you aren’t tech-savvy.
How to use SMS:
- Format: 12*SponsorID*IqamaNumber
- Send to:
- STC (Sawa): 888994
- Mobily: 624444
- Zain: 709444
You’ll receive your expiry details shortly after.
E. In-Person Methods
- Contact Your Sponsor or HR: Your employer’s HR department can provide your current Iqama status.
- Visit Jawazat (Passport Office): Go to your nearest office with your original Iqama and passport and request your status.
2. Understanding the Red-Green Status (Nitaqat)
It is crucial to check Iqama red or green in Saudi Arabia
- Green/Platinum: Employer is compliant; all services and renewals available.
- Red: Employer has compliance issues—limited renewals; resolve ASAP to avoid problems.
3. Penalties for Expired Iqama
Always learn how to check Iqama expiry date in Saudi Arabia
- 1st Offense: SAR 500 fine.
- 2nd Offense: SAR 1,000 fine.
- 3rd Offense: Up to SAR 1,500 fine and possible deportation.
4. FAQs
- Can dependents’ (family) expiry dates differ?
No, family Iqamas typically share the sponsor’s date.
- Do you need an Absher account?
Not always. The MoL portal and SMS method are available to everyone.
5. Keeping Your Iqama Valid
- Regularly check your expiry date.
- Coordinate with your HR/sponsor for timely renewals.
- Keep mobile and contact details up-to-date to receive official messages.
- Address issues with the Nitaqat/red-green system quickly for seamless access to services.
Need more personalized help?
Still confused on how to check iqama expiry in Saudi Arabia? Connect with DuVolks! Our experts simplify all your Saudi Arabia paperwork and residency needs so you never miss a critical deadline.
Your Iqama is your lifeline in Saudi Arabia. Stay proactive, use the easy online tools, or connect with DuVolks, and always renew before expiry!
Stay legal. Stay safe. Stay smart.
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