How to issue Iqama for an employee for the first time

Who:

Employer and employee

Where:

Passport and arrival records

• Confirm the employee entered on the correct work visa and is in Saudi Arabia.
• Check their name, date of birth and arrival details against the passport. Save the border number used before an Iqama number is issued; correct any errors.

Issue the work permit within 90 days of entry. Arrange it promptly and obtain the required permission before the employee starts work.

1. Issue the work permit

   Who:

   Employer

   Where:

   Qiwa, then your bank

   In Qiwa, select the employee and permit period. Generate the SADAD payment number.

   In your bank, choose SADAD → HRSD / Ministry of Labour → biller 050. Enter the payment number, review and pay. Check that the permit is issued in Qiwa.

2. Complete the medical examination

   Who:

   Employee

   Where:

   Accredited medical centre

   Attend the fitness examination. Ask the centre to confirm the result has been registered for the Iqama application.

3. Arrange health insurance

   Who:

   Employer

   Where:

   Insurance provider

   Arrange cover for the employee and accompanying family, where applicable. Check the insurance status ↗ and ask the insurer to correct any missing or incorrect details.

4. Check identity details and pay the Iqama fee

   Who:

   Employer and employee

   Where:

   Muqeem or Absher Business; bank for payment

   • Check passport validity, registered fingerprints/photos and any registration required for the employee’s profession.
   • Pay the Iqama issuance fee through your bank, using the employee identifier requested by the service.
   • Resolve any traffic violations, late fees or absence-from-work flag shown.

Who:

Authorised employer user

Where:

Muqeem or Absher Business

1. Select the employee. Check their details and Iqama period, and confirm that the payments and supporting records are complete.
2. Submit the application. Confirm the issued Iqama number, expiry date and employee details.
3. Save the confirmation and payment references.

• Employee: update mobile details and activate personal Absher. Keep passwords and OTPs private.
• Employer: complete GOSI registration where required, update the contract and payroll, and arrange card delivery if needed.
• Employer: record the Iqama, work-permit and insurance expiry dates separately.