A Saudi residence permit is your legal ID in the Kingdom. It lets you live and work there safely. Without it, you cannot open a bank account. Also, you cannot rent a home. So, getting this card is your first step. However, rules change often. Therefore, this guide explains everything for 2026.
What is a Saudi residence permit?
A Saudi residence permit is a legal ID card for expats living in the Kingdom. Locals call it an Iqama. It proves you are legal in the country. Also, police and banks ask for it. So, you must carry it at all times. However, it is not a visa. A visa lets you enter. But the Iqama lets you stay. Therefore, your status depends on it. You need it for daily life.
Who Needs a Residence Permit in Saudi Arabia?
- Any non-GCC citizen staying in the country for more than 90 days must hold a valid residence permit.
- This rule applies to workers, investors, and family members.
- Tourists on a visit visa do not need one.
You enter the country on a work visa. Then, your sponsor applies for your permit. Children must have their own cards. Even newborns need a permit. Therefore, all long-term residents are required to comply. Check your visa type before your 90 days end.
What are the new types of Premium Residency?
Saudi Arabia now offers five new Premium Residency options for skilled people and investors.
So, you have more choices.
- Special Talent Residency: For experts.
- Gifted Residency: For artists.
- Investor Residency: For business owners.
- Entrepreneur Residency: Helps startup founders.
- Real Estate Owner Residency: For property buyers.
Therefore, pick the one that fits you. This supports Vision 2030 goals.
How much does a Saudi residence permit cost?
The cost depends on your permit type, but usually, the company pays for workers. However, Premium Residency costs more.
Here is a simple price list for 2026:
| Permit Type | Best For | Key 2026 Benefit | Typical Cost & Requirement |
| Standard Iqama | Employees | Legal stay and work permit | SAR 650 yearly + SAR 9,600 levy |
| Premium (Permanent) | High-net-worth individuals | Lifetime residency, full ownership rights | SAR 800,000 one-time |
| Premium (Limited) | Experts, consultants | Self-sponsorship, renewable permit | SAR 100,000 yearly |
| Investor Residency | Business owners | Sponsor own firm and staff | MISA license + required capital |
| Real Estate Residency | Property investors | Residency linked to real estate, includes family | Property worth SAR 4 million or more |
| Special Talent | Scientists, executives, specialists | No sponsor needed, no exit/re-entry visa | SAR 4,000 one-time (varies by field) |
| Family Iqama | Dependents | Legal stay for spouse and children | SAR 400/month/person + insurance + main sponsor |
What documents are required for the application?
You need a passport and a health report to apply.
Papers must be correct. So, get these items ready early.
- Valid passport.
- Two photos.
- Medical test report.
- Health insurance.
- Application form.
- Fee receipt.
However, investors need more papers. For example, a trade license. Also, Premium Residency needs bank proof. Therefore, use a checklist to be safe.
How to apply for a Saudi residence permit step-by-step
Your sponsor applies online using the Muqeem or Absher platforms.
Step 1: Enter Saudi Arabia
- You must arrive with a valid entry visa. It can be for work. It can also be for business or family. So, your legal stay begins on arrival.
Step 2: Take the medical test
- You must visit an approved clinic. They check your health. So, the system clears your file.
Step 3: Get health insurance
- You must have active medical cover. It links to your record. So, the government system accepts you.
Step 4: Upload your details
- Your sponsor sends your data online. They add your passport. Then, they add your test result. So, your file enters the system.
Step 5: Pay the government fees
- You or your sponsor pays the charges. This confirms the application. So, your request moves forward.
Step 6: Receive your digital ID
- The system issues your digital card. You see it in Absher. So, your legal stay starts.
Step 7: Check your record
- You should review your details online. This confirms your Saudi residence permit works.
So, you do not visit an office. However, you must give fingerprints. You do this at the airport or a center. Then, the digital ID appears. Finally, you get the card. This digital process is very fast.
How long is the residence permit valid?
A standard permit lasts for one year and must be renewed annually. However, Premium Residency can last forever. For workers, it links to the work permit. So, they expire on the same day. Also, investors get longer terms. Therefore, check the date often. Expired cards bring fines. Consequently, track your validity online.
How can you renew your Iqama online?
You renew your Iqama online by paying fees and confirming insurance on the Absher portal in minutes. This process saves time and avoids fines. It also keeps your Saudi residence permit valid.
Follow these steps for a clean status and fast approval.
When you should renew
- You should renew before the expiry date. Renew at least three days early. So you avoid blocks and late fees. Also, banks and clinics keep full access.
What happens after payment
The system updates your digital ID at once.
- You do not visit any office. You also do not print a new card. However, you should check the new date in Absher.
Common reasons for failure
Renewal fails when insurance or fines remain unpaid.
- Insurance expired
- Traffic fines unpaid
- Dependent fees missing
So clear each item first.
Fast check after renewal
You check the new date in Absher.
- Go to the Iqama status. So you see the fresh expiry. Then you stay safe and legal.
What are the penalties for an expired permit?
Fines start at SAR 500 and can lead to deportation. The government enforces these rules strictly.
Rules are strict.
- First Time, you pay SAR 500.
- Second Time, it doubles to SAR 1,000.
- Third Time, a third time is bad. You might have to leave the country.
Also, banks freeze your account. So, you lose access to money. Therefore, renew on time. Avoid the late fine.
Can you work with a different sponsor?
No, you cannot work for another sponsor without an official transfer. It is illegal to work for cash elsewhere. Labor laws forbid this practice completely. So, you face penalties if caught. However, you can switch jobs legally. But you need approval via the Qiwa platform. Or, you can transfer if your current boss fails you. For example, if they do not renew your card. Or if they delay your salary for 3 months. Therefore, follow the official Qiwa rules. This protects your labor rights.
How do you check your Iqama status?
You check your status instantly on the Absher website or app. It is a free and fast service.
- Go to Absher: Log in to your account.
- Find Service: Click on “Query Iqama Expiry.”
- Enter Details: Type your ID number and the image code.
- View: The exact expiry date appears.
Or, use the Ministry of Human Resources site. This shows your Nitaqat (Saudization) color. Therefore, monitor this regularly. Consequently, you stay informed.
Can you bring your family to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can bring your wife and kids if you meet the salary requirement. However, you need a good salary. Usually, SAR 3,500 is enough. Also, your job must allow it. Laborers often cannot do this. So, check your title. First, apply online. Then, pay the fees. Consequently, they get cards too. This needs a monthly fee.
What is the dependent fee in 2026?
The fee is SAR 400 per person per month. It adds up fast. So, plan your money well. For four people, it is high. You pay it yearly. However, rules might change. But it is stable now. Therefore, save SAR 4,800 per person. Also, pay before renewal. This is key for budgeting.
How to transfer sponsorship to a new employer?
You transfer sponsorship online using the Qiwa platform. The new employer starts the request.
- Offer: The new boss sends a job offer on Qiwa.
- Accept: You accept the offer online.
- Notice: The old boss gets a 90-day notice.
- Move: Sponsorship transfers to the new firm.
However, you must finish your notice period. So, complete your current work first. Also, return all company items. But, if your card is expired, you transfer instantly. No notice is needed then. Therefore, changing jobs is easy now. You have more freedom.
Can investors get a residence permit?
Yes, investors get a permit after getting an MISA license. This gives you freedom. First, get a MISA license. Then, apply for the visa. Consequently, you get the Iqama. You do not need a local boss. So, you sponsor yourself. Also, you can buy a house. However, it costs more. Therefore, keep your license valid.
What are the benefits of Premium Residency?
Premium Residency lets you live without a sponsor, like a Green Card.
So, you live freely. Also, you switch jobs easily. Moreover, you travel anytime. You do not need an exit visa. Then, you can own cars. Also, you can buy land. Therefore, enjoy a better life.
What medical tests are needed?
You need blood tests and an X-ray to screen for diseases. Health rules are strict. So, go to an approved center. They look for viruses. Also, they check for TB. If you fail, you cannot stay. However, some things are okay. But, bad diseases mean you leave. Therefore, get a clean report.
Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes, you need insurance to get a permit. You cannot skip it. The system checks for it. So, if it expires, renewal stops. Also, it covers your family. Therefore, buy a policy. Prices vary. But basic plans work. Consequently, keep insurance active.
How to replace a lost residence card?
Report a lost card to Jawazat and pay a fee immediately.
Do not wait. First, report it on Absher. Then, pay SAR 1,000. Next, book a visit. Also, get a police report if stolen. Then, go to the office. Consequently, they give a new one. Therefore, fix a lost card fast.
Can holders of a residence permit travel freely?
Residents travel freely but need an Exit-Reentry visa. The Iqama is not enough. So, pay SAR 200. Then, get the visa on Absher. However, Premium Residents are free. They do not need this visa. Also, check the dates. Do not let it expire outside. Therefore, watch your travel dates.
What is the Final Exit visa?
The Final Exit visa lets you leave forever without obligations. Use it when you move out. First, pay all debts. Then, sell your car. Next, the boss issues the visa. You have 60 days. Also, give back your card. However, pay traffic fines first. Therefore, get clearance before you go.
Can I own a business with a residence permit?
Workers cannot run a business, but investors can. Rules are strict. If you work, you cannot trade. However, you can buy stocks. But to own a shop, get a license. Or, get Premium Residency. Then, you can open a firm. Therefore, know your rights.
What happens if I lose my job?
If you lose your job, find a new one or leave within 60 days. You have 60 days. So, act fast. Also, try to transfer. However, if time runs out, you leave. Then, you need a Final Exit. But laws are better now. Therefore, use the grace period.
Are there special rules for domestic workers?
Yes, domestic workers have different rules managed by Musaned. They use the Musaned platform. Also, probation is different. So, the boss helps more. However, rights are better now. For instance, you can transfer if paid late. Also, keep your own papers. Therefore, check the domestic rules.
How does the huroob status affect me?
Huroob means you ran away, which blocks all services. It blocks your services. The boss reports to you. So, you become illegal. You cannot renew. Also, you cannot leave. However, you can fight it. But do it fast. Therefore, avoid absentee reports.
Can I change my profession on the permit?
Yes, you can change your job title if you have the right degree. You need proof. First, the boss asks for it. Then, you show your degree. Also, attest to the degree. However, some jobs are for locals. So, you cannot take them, for example, HR roles. Therefore, check the job list.
you secure full legal stay in Saudi Arabia when you hold a Saudi residence permit because it links your work housing banking and healthcare into one government record so start with BusinessLinkKSA today we verify your visa then file your Iqama and track approval in Absher over thirteen million expats use this system in 2026 yet many lose status due to missed renewals get your Saudi residence permit now stay legal avoid fines and grow safely.
Call our team today via phone at +97143215227, WhatsApp at +966544240444, or email at info@businesslink.sa
FAQ’s
How long does it take to get an Iqama?
It takes 1 to 3 weeks.
Can I drive with my home license?
Yes, but swap it for a Saudi one soon.
What is the age limit for kids?
Sons stay until 25. Daughters stay until marriage.
Can my wife work?
She needs permission or a transfer.
Do I need a lawyer?
No, but a consultant helps.
Can I pay fees in parts?
Yes, you can pay some fees quarterly.
Is the digital ID real?
Yes, it works everywhere.
Can I come back after Final Exit?
Yes, on a new visa.
Does buying a house help?
Yes, if it costs SAR 4 million.
Why did my renewal fail?
Maybe insurance expired, or fines remain.
