Latest update on Iqama renewal in Saudi Arabia – January 2025

Saudi Arabia has announced that dependents of expats and domestic workers can now renew their Iqamas even if they are outside the Kingdom.

According to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), this update allows residents to extend their residency permits and single or multiple exit and re-entry visas through the online platforms Absher and Muqeem.

Beneficiaries can access these services by paying the required fees as per government regulations.

This new policy offers much-needed flexibility for expatriates and their families, especially those unable to return to Saudi Arabia in time for renewals.

Key Fees converted in local currency

• Exit and Re-entry Visa Extension: Rs7,684

• Iqama Renewal: Rs4269

• Final Exit Fee: Rs5197

• New Iqama Issuance: Rs3842

• Passport Information Update: Rs5123

These updates, shared via the Absher Business platform, reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to streamlining residency and visa-related processes for expats and their dependents.

The measures provide a significant convenience to those living abroad, ensuring smooth operations and enhanced accessibility through digital platforms.

Passport counters set up at NADRA mega centres

The Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGIP) has set up passport counters at NADRA Mega Centers situated in North Nazimabad and the Site Industrial Area.

The one-window processing counters are capable of handling all essential formalities for the issuance and renewal of passports, including photo, thumb impressions, and document verification.

The facility will cater to over 400 passport applications on a daily basis. The new facility, launched on Monday, will reduce the rush at passport offices situated in Saddar and Awami Markaz.

Initially, six passport processing counters have been set up at NADRA Mega Center in North Nazimabad near Five Star Chowrangi, while six counters have been set up at NADRA Mega Center situated in Site Industrial Area.

An assistant director and required staff has been deployed at both the centers.

These facilities will work round the clock in three shifts. Citizens will be able to avail passport renewal and issuance services 24 hours a day in both centers. At least 400 applicants are likely to benefit from bot centers every day.