For foreign nationals planning to live and work in Saudi Arabia, understanding the Iqama visa system is essential. An Iqama is far more than a simple permit – it’s your key to employment, residency and access to public services in the Kingdom. While Leap29 does not provide Iqama sponsorship directly, our Workforce Management solutions support companies and professionals in navigating the Iqama application and compliance process.
In this FAQ guide, we address the most common questions around the Iqama application, Iqama visa cost and employer sponsorship, with practical insights for both employers and foreign workers.
What is an Iqama?
An Iqama is a residence permit issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior to foreign nationals working in the Kingdom. It functions as both a work permit and identification card, authorising legal residence and employment.
It is a stiff, rectangular ID card that includes key information such as your name, nationality, job title, employer (sponsor) and Iqama number.
Why is the Iqama important?
The Iqama is your primary form of identification in Saudi Arabia. Without it, you cannot:
- Work legally
- Open a bank account
- Obtain a SIM card
- Rent housing
- Access medical services
- Stay in the country for more than 90 days
It’s illegal to work in Saudi Arabia without an Iqama that lists your current employer as the sponsor. Failure to obtain or renew your Iqama can result in fines, deportation, or detention.
How do you apply for an Iqama?
The Iqama application must be submitted by your employer (sponsor) within 90 days of your arrival in Saudi Arabia. Here’s a typical breakdown of the process:
- Secure a work visa before travelling to Saudi Arabia.
- Arrive in Saudi Arabia and undergo a medical exam.
- Your employer submits the Iqama application through the Ministry of Interior’s system.
- You attend a biometric appointment (fingerprints and photos).
- If approved, your Iqama card is issued.
Leap29 supports companies in coordinating these steps through our Workforce Management services, ensuring their employees are fully compliant with local employment law.
What is the difference between a work visa and an Iqama?
A work visa allows you to enter Saudi Arabia for employment purposes. Once you arrive, your employer must apply for an Iqama, which grants you legal residency and the right to work.
In simple terms:
Work visa = entry
Iqama = stay and work
What does Iqama sponsorship mean?
Iqama sponsorship means that a Saudi employer takes legal and administrative responsibility for a foreign employee. Only registered Saudi companies or organisations with proper licences can sponsor foreign workers.
Your employer must apply for your Iqama, manage renewals and is typically responsible for associated costs and documentation.
While Leap29 does not act as a sponsor, we help companies manage the employment of sponsored workers, ensuring they meet local regulatory requirements through services such as Payroll Management, Manpower Supply and RPO.
How long does it take to get an Iqama?
After arriving in Saudi Arabia, it usually takes 1 to 3 months to receive your Iqama – assuming your documentation and medical tests are in order. Delays can occur if information is missing or incorrectly submitted.
Leap29 helps our clients ensure their workers are fully prepared before arrival, avoiding costly setbacks and compliance risks.
How long is the Iqama valid and how do you renew it?
Iqamas are usually valid for one year, though two-year options exist for some employees. Your employer is responsible for renewing your Iqama before it expires. Failing to do so can lead to fines or loss of legal residency.
Key reminders:
- Always carry your Iqama.
- Ensure your employer (sponsor) listed on the card is current.
- Renew your Iqama early to avoid disruption.
What happens if your Iqama expires or is lost?
Working or staying in Saudi Arabia without a valid Iqama is a serious offence. Penalties include:
- Fines (starting at SAR 500)
- Detention or deportation
- Employment bans
If your Iqama is lost, report it immediately to your employer and the Ministry of Interior. A replacement must be requested as soon as possible.
Can you transfer Iqama sponsorship?
Yes, but only with approval from:
- Your current sponsor
- Your new employer
- The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
Transfers must be documented officially, and the new employer must meet legal requirements to sponsor foreign nationals.
Leap29 helps businesses manage these transitions by supporting employee onboarding, legal coordination and payroll continuity.
Does my employer keep my passport?
It is common for sponsors in Saudi Arabia to retain the employee’s passport, while the employee holds the Iqama. This is partly for administrative reasons, but there are guidelines under Saudi labour law that prohibit employers from doing so without employee consent.
How can Leap29 help if we’re hiring talent in Saudi Arabia?
While we do not act as a sponsor, Leap29 offers Workforce Management services that streamline the hiring and employment of foreign nationals with valid Iqama sponsorship through their employer.
Our support includes:
- Localised Payroll Management
- End-to-end RPO (Recruitment Process Outsourcing)
- Strategic Manpower Supply
- Ongoing regulatory compliance and employee support
- Workforce Management for Oil & Gas
Whether you’re entering the Saudi market or growing your existing team, we ensure you stay compliant while focusing on what matters most – building a strong workforce.
Ready to expand your workforce in Saudi Arabia?
Leap29 makes it easier to hire, onboard and manage foreign workers in the Kingdom – without the need for a local entity. From payroll to compliance, we work alongside your in-country sponsor to make the Iqama process seamless.
Get in touch with our team today on +44 (0) 20 8129 6860 or email ksa@leap29.com to explore your Workforce Management options in Saudi Arabia.
