Renewing your iqama (residence permit) in Saudi Arabia in 2026 is now fully digital through Absher — no need to visit passport offices. However, success depends on preparing the requirements before hitting confirm. This guide walks you step by step from start to receiving your renewed iqama.
Before You Start — Check These First
Three things determine whether your renewal will succeed or fail before you even log into Absher:
1. Passport — Must be valid. If expired or close to expiry, the process will likely be blocked immediately.
2. Traffic Fines — Any unpaid traffic violation may prevent renewal. Check beforehand via Absher or Absher Traffic.
3. Work Permit — Your work permit must be renewed through the Ministry of Human Resources before you can renew your iqama. Many people miss this step and get rejected.
Complete Fees — 2026
| Category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Employee at a company or institution | 650 SAR |
| Domestic worker (driver, housemaid) | 600 SAR |
| Dependent over 18 years old | 500 SAR |
Steps — Absher Individuals (for the resident or sponsor)
Step 1: Log into Absher Individuals
Go to absher.sa or the Absher app and log in with your ID and password. The system now supports fingerprint or Face ID verification.
Step 2: Select the renewal service
From the main menu: E-Services → Passports → Renew Iqama. If renewing for a dependent or worker, choose “Sponsorship Services” or “Family Members.”
Step 3: Choose the duration and review data
Select the worker or family member, choose the duration (1 or 2 years), and carefully review their details before proceeding.
Step 4: Pay the fees
Pay via Mada, Visa, bank apps, or SADAD. Keep your payment receipt.
Step 5: Confirm the request
Review final details and click “Confirm.” You’ll receive an SMS confirming the process. The validity date updates in your “Digital Identity” on Absher immediately or within 3–7 business days.
Absher Business — for Company Owners
If you’re a business owner renewing for your employees via Absher Business:
From the Absher Business dashboard: “My Business Services” → “Renew Iqama” → Select the worker → Choose duration → Pay → Confirm. The process is identical to Absher Individuals but allows managing multiple employees from one place.
Common Issues & Solutions
“Cannot renew iqama, contact passport office”: The most common cause is an expired work permit or unpaid traffic fines. Check both and try again.
“Outstanding dues”: Go to SADAD, make sure you’ve paid the iqama fees for the full new period, then return to Absher.
“Passport expired”: You must renew your passport at your country’s embassy first, then re-submit the renewal request.
“Can I renew from outside Saudi Arabia?” Yes, residents outside the Kingdom can renew online as long as their passport and health insurance are valid.
After Renewal — What to Check
Once renewed, verify your updated iqama in the “Digital Identity” section on Absher. If you have a physical iqama card, the new expiry date will also show when scanned. Remember that renewing your iqama automatically extends your health insurance coverage — make sure your employer has renewed the insurance policy.
