Picture this: You’re at the airport ready to fly home for vacation, and immigration stops you. Why? Your Iqama expired three days ago, and you didn’t even know it. Now you’re facing fines, missed flights, and a whole lot of stress.
Sound like a nightmare? It happens more often than you’d think. But here’s the good news – checking your Iqama expiry date in Saudi Arabia takes less than 2 minutes, and I’m going to show you every possible way to do it.
Whether you’re tech-savvy or prefer traditional methods, whether you have Absher access or not, this complete guide covers absolutely everything you need to know about checking, tracking, and managing your Iqama expiry date.
What Is an Iqama and Why Does the Expiry Date Matter So Much?
Let’s start with the basics. Your Iqama (إقامة) is your residence permit – essentially your legal permission to live and work in Saudi Arabia. Think of it as your identity card, work permit, and residence proof all rolled into one crucial document.
What Your Iqama Contains:
- Your full name (in Arabic and sometimes English)
- Photo
- Iqama number (10 digits – memorize this!)
- Nationality
- Date of birth
- Profession/occupation
- Sponsor/employer information
- Issue date
- Expiry date (the most important field!)
- Blood type
- Place of birth
Issued By: Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Typical Validity: 1 year (most common), though some Iqamas can be issued for up to 5 years depending on circumstances
Other resources: mol KSA iqama huroob check
Why the Expiry Date Is Critical
An expired Iqama isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a legal violation with serious consequences:
Legal Implications:
- You’re technically residing illegally
- Subject to fines and penalties
- Risk of deportation
- Travel bans
- Inability to renew or leave the country
Service Disruptions:
- Banking services suspended
- Cannot renew driver’s license
- Mobile phone services may be cut
- Health insurance becomes invalid
- Cannot change or renew employment
- Cannot sponsor family members
Financial Impact:
- Overstay fines (can be substantial)
- Employer penalties
- Cannot receive salary transfers
- Legal fees if issues escalate
Bottom Line: Your Iqama expiry date isn’t something to take lightly. Checking it regularly should be as routine as checking your phone battery!
Method 1: Check Iqama Expiry Through Ministry of Labor (MOL/MHRSD) – No Login Required!
This is my favorite method for quick checks because you don’t need an Absher account, username, or password. Perfect for newcomers or anyone who hasn’t set up Absher yet.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Open your web browser and visit the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) portal:
URL: https://portal.mol.gov.sa
Step 2: Select your preferred language
- English
- Arabic (العربية)
- Urdu (اردو)
The site offers all three, making it accessible for Saudi Arabia’s diverse expatriate population!
Step 3: Look for “E-Services Portal” or “Services” section
Step 4: Find “Individual Services” or “Query Services”
Step 5: Select “Query Iqama Expiry” or “Iqama Expiry Check Service”
Step 6: Enter your 10-digit Iqama number
Double-check this! One wrong digit and you’ll get someone else’s information or an error.
Step 7: Enter your Date of Birth
You’ll have TWO options:
- Gregorian Calendar (standard Western calendar: DD/MM/YYYY)
- Hijri Calendar (Islamic calendar)
Important: Use whichever matches your official records. Most expats use Gregorian, but some documents use Hijri. When in doubt, try both!
Step 8: Enter the Captcha code (verification image)
Those squiggly numbers/letters proving you’re human!
Step 9: Click “Next” or “Search” or “Submit“
Step 10: View your results!
What You’ll See:
- Your full name
- Iqama number (confirmation)
- Nationality
- Gender
- Profession
- Iqama expiry date (in both Hijri and Gregorian!)
- Current status (Active/Expired)
- Employer/sponsor information
Time Required: 1-2 minutes
Cost: Completely FREE
Internet Required: Yes
Absher Account Required: NO – this is the beauty of this method!
Troubleshooting MOL Method
Problem: “Data Not Found”
Solutions:
- Verify your Iqama number (no spaces, exactly 10 digits)
- Check your date of birth format
- Try switching between Hijri and Gregorian calendars
- Ensure your Iqama has been issued (if you’re brand new, might take a few days to appear in system)
Problem: Captcha Keeps Failing
Solutions:
- Refresh the page to get a new captcha
- Ensure no spaces when entering numbers
- Try a different browser (Chrome works best)
- Clear browser cache
Problem: Website Won’t Load
Solutions:
- Check your internet connection
- Try during off-peak hours (early morning works best)
- Disable VPN if you’re using one
- Try from mobile data instead of WiFi
Method 2: Check Through Absher Platform (Official Government Portal)
Absher is THE official e-government portal for Saudi Arabia. If you’re living and working in KSA, you really should have an Absher account – it’s useful for dozens of services beyond just Iqama checks.
Setting Up Absher (First-Time Users)
Requirements:
- Valid Iqama
- Saudi mobile number registered in your name
- Internet access
Registration Process:
Step 1: Visit https://www.absher.sa
Step 2: Click “Register” or “New User”
Step 3: Choose “Individuals”
Step 4: Enter your Iqama number
Step 5: Fill in personal details:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Mobile number (must be registered in your name!)
- Email address
Step 6: Create username and password
Step 7: Verify via OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your mobile
Step 8: Complete registration
Note: Some users report needing to visit a Jawazat office or Absher service center to complete registration in person, especially if mobile number verification fails. Bring your Iqama!
Checking Iqama Expiry on Absher Website
Once your Absher account is set up:
Step 1: Go to https://www.absher.sa
Step 2: Click “Login” and choose “Absher Individuals”
Step 3: Enter your credentials:
- Username OR Iqama number
- Password
- Captcha code
Step 4: Click “Sign In”
Step 5: Enter OTP sent to your registered mobile number
(This two-factor authentication keeps your account secure!)
Step 6: Once logged in, navigate to “My Services“
Step 7: Select “Inquiries” or “Services” menu
Step 8: Find and click “Query Iqama Expiry” or “Iqama Services“
Step 9: The system may ask you to enter your Iqama number again (even though you’re logged in)
Step 10: Enter the displayed captcha
Step 11: Click “View” or “Search“
Step 12: Your Iqama details appear, including:
- Complete personal information
- Iqama issue date
- Iqama expiry date (both Hijri and Gregorian)
- Current validity status
- Sponsor/employer details
- Profession category
Bonus Feature: Absher also shows your Nitaqat color status (more on this later!)
Checking Iqama Expiry on Absher Mobile App
The Absher app is honestly more convenient than the website once you’ve got it set up.
Download Links:
- Android: Google Play Store → Search “Absher”
- iPhone: Apple App Store → Search “Absher”
Official App Name: “Absher – أبشر”
App Setup:
Step 1: Download and install the Absher app
Step 2: Open the app
Step 3: Select language (English/Arabic)
Step 4: Choose “Absher Individuals”
Step 5: Login with your Absher credentials
Step 6: Enable biometric login (fingerprint/Face ID) for future convenience
App Navigation:
Method A: Through Profile
- Open Absher app
- Tap “Profile” at the bottom
- Select “My Services“
- Tap “My Iqama” or “Digital Documents“
- Your complete Iqama details display, including expiry date!
Method B: Through Services Menu
- Open app
- Tap “Services” tab
- Select “Inquiries“
- Choose “Query Iqama Expiry“
- Enter Iqama number
- View expiry information
App Advantages:
- Push notifications for expiry warnings (if enabled!)
- Faster than website (no browser needed)
- Biometric login saves time
- Can save Iqama as digital document
- Access other services (traffic fines, vehicle registration, visa services, etc.)
Pro Tip: Enable notifications in the Absher app settings! You’ll get reminders before your Iqama expires.
Method 3: Check Through SMS (Text Message) – Old School But Works!
For those times when you don’t have internet or prefer the simplicity of SMS, Saudi Arabia offers text message inquiry services.
How It Works:
Step 1: Open your phone’s messaging app
Step 2: Compose a new SMS to 989898
Step 3: Type your message in this format:
Arabic: اقامة [space] رقم الاقامة
English: IQAMA [space] YOUR-IQAMA-NUMBER
Example: IQAMA 2123456789
Step 4: Send the message
Step 5: Within seconds to minutes, you’ll receive a reply SMS with:
- Iqama status (Valid/Expired)
- Expiry date
- Basic information
Cost: Nominal SMS charges (typically SAR 0.25-1.00 depending on your mobile operator)
Advantages:
- No internet needed
- Works on any phone (even basic models)
- Quick and simple
- Useful in emergencies
Limitations:
- Less detailed than online methods
- May not work with all mobile operators
- SMS charges apply
Note: Service availability may vary. If it doesn’t work, stick with online methods which are more reliable.
Method 4: Check Through Your Employer/Sponsor
Sometimes the simplest solution is asking someone who already has access to your information!
Through Your Company’s HR Department
Step 1: Contact your Human Resources (HR) department
Step 2: Request your Iqama expiry information
What HR Can Provide:
- Exact expiry date
- Renewal timeline
- Required documents for renewal
- Company’s renewal process details
When This Makes Sense:
- You’re new to Saudi Arabia and haven’t set up online accounts
- Technical difficulties with online portals
- Prefer official company communication
- Want to know about renewal procedures simultaneously
Through Your Sponsor (Kafeel)
If you’re on a private/family sponsorship:
Step 1: Contact your sponsor directly
Step 2: Request Iqama status information
Note: Your sponsor has full access to all your Iqama details through their own Absher account or through Jawazat.
Method 5: Visit Jawazat Office In Person (Offline Method)
For those who prefer face-to-face service or need official printed confirmation:
Step 1: Find your nearest Jawazat (Passport) office
Major Cities Have Multiple Locations:
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Dammam
- Makkah
- Madinah
- And others
Step 2: Bring required documents:
- Your original Iqama card
- Valid passport
- Sponsor authorization letter (if applicable)
Step 3: Visit the inquiry counter
Step 4: Request Iqama status check
Step 5: Officer will check the system and provide information
Advantages:
- Official printed confirmation available
- Can ask questions directly
- Resolve issues on the spot
- No internet or technical skills needed
Disadvantages:
- Time-consuming (queues can be long!)
- Operating hours restrictions (usually 8 AM – 2 PM)
- Need to physically travel
- May require appointment in some locations
Pro Tip: Visit early morning (right when they open) to avoid long waiting times!
Understanding Your Iqama Status: Red vs. Green (Nitaqat System)
When you check your Iqama, you’ll often see a color status. This is part of Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat system, which rates employers based on their “Saudization” (hiring Saudi nationals) efforts.
What the Colors Mean
Platinum Status (بلاتيني)
- Employer has exceptional Saudization rates
- Maximum benefits and priority processing
- Smooth renewals and visa services
- Best case scenario!
Green Status (أخضر – Akhdar)
- Employer meets good Saudization requirements
- Normal access to all services
- Renewals processed without issues
- You’re in good shape
Yellow Status (أصفر – Asfar)
- Warning status
- Some service limitations
- Renewals possible but may face delays
- Monitor situation
Red Status (أحمر – Ahmar)
- Employer has Saudization compliance issues
- SEVERE service limitations
- Renewal difficulties
- Cannot transfer sponsorship
- Cannot bring new workers
- Action needed urgently!
What Red Status Means For You
If Your Iqama Shows Red:
Immediate Concerns:
- Renewal may be delayed or denied
- Cannot change jobs easily (transfer blocked)
- Family visa renewals problematic
- Exit-reentry visa issues
What To Do:
- Talk to your employer immediately
- Understand the compliance issue
- Ask about resolution timeline
- Consider legal advice if employer unresponsive
- Know your rights under Saudi labor law
Can You Leave on Red Status?
Usually yes, but reentry might be complicated. Always verify with Jawazat before international travel!
Reading Your Iqama Expiry Date Correctly
Saudi Arabia uses BOTH calendar systems, which can be confusing!
Hijri vs. Gregorian Calendar
Hijri Calendar (Islamic)
- Lunar calendar
- 12 months, but shorter year (354-355 days)
- Months: Muharram, Safar, Rabi’ al-Awwal, etc.
- Used officially in Saudi Arabia
- Your Iqama is often issued based on Hijri dates
Gregorian Calendar (Western)
- Solar calendar
- 365-day year
- January, February, March, etc.
- Familiar to most expats
- Used for international purposes
Important: Because Hijri is 10-11 days shorter than Gregorian, dates don’t match up year-to-year!
Example:
Hijri Expiry: 15 Sha’ban 1447
Gregorian Equivalent: Approximately February 13, 2026
Pro Tip: Always note BOTH dates! Set reminders using the Gregorian calendar (easier for most expats) but remember official Saudi documents use Hijri.
Conversion Tools:
- Online Hijri-Gregorian converters
- Absher shows both automatically
- Phone calendar apps can add Hijri calendar
Setting Up Expiry Reminders (Don’t Rely on Memory!)
Here’s the system I recommend to never miss your Iqama renewal:
Phone Calendar Reminders
Reminder 1: 90 days before expiry
- Alert title: “Iqama expires in 3 months – inform HR”
- Action: Notify your employer to start renewal process
Reminder 2: 60 days before expiry
- Alert title: “Iqama expires in 2 months – check renewal status”
- Action: Confirm HR has initiated renewal
Reminder 3: 30 days before expiry
- Alert title: “Iqama expires in 1 month – URGENT follow-up”
- Action: Ensure renewal is in progress, gather any required documents
Reminder 4: 7 days before expiry
- Alert title: “IQAMA EXPIRES THIS WEEK!”
- Action: Panic mode if not renewed yet – escalate immediately!
Absher App Notifications
Enable push notifications in Absher settings to receive automatic reminders!
Monthly Check Routine
Set a recurring monthly reminder to simply check your Iqama status online. Takes 1 minute, provides peace of mind!
Iqama Renewal Process Overview
Understanding the renewal process helps you know when to start:
Timeline
Ideal: Start renewal process 60-90 days before expiry
Minimum: At least 30 days before expiry
Absolute Deadline: 3 days before expiry (after this, you’re in overstay!)
Requirements for Renewal
Employee Responsibilities:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Recent photo (if required)
- Medical insurance (must be active!)
- Any requested documents from HR
Employer Responsibilities:
- Submit renewal application through Muqeem or Qiwa platforms
- Pay associated fees
- Ensure company is in Nitaqat compliance (green/platinum)
- Medical insurance coverage for employee
Renewal Fees
Typical Costs (Subject to change):
- Iqama renewal fee: SAR 650 per year
- Work permit fees: Variable
- Medical insurance: Depends on provider/coverage
- Dependent fees: Additional costs per family member
Who Pays: Legally, the sponsor/employer bears these costs for employees. However, practices vary by company.
Processing Time
Normal Processing: 3-7 business days
If Delayed: Can take 2-3 weeks if there are complications (red status, insurance issues, missing documents)
Rush Processing: Sometimes available for urgent cases
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: My Iqama Already Expired!
Don’t Panic, But Act FAST:
If expired less than 6 months:
- Contact employer immediately
- They can still renew (with penalties)
- Overstay fines will apply
- Approximately SAR 500-1000 depending on duration
If expired more than 6 months:
- More serious situation
- Higher fines (can be substantial)
- May need to visit Jawazat with sponsor
- Legal complications possible
If expired over 1 year:
- Very serious
- May face deportation proceedings
- Hefty fines
- Requires legal intervention
- Sponsor faces severe penalties
Immediate Steps:
- Contact HR/sponsor TODAY
- Explain situation honestly
- Get legal advice if employer uncooperative
- Do NOT attempt to leave country (will be stopped!)
- Pay any fines promptly
- Keep all documentation
Problem 2: Employer Won’t Renew My Iqama
Possible Reasons:
- Company financial issues
- Company is red status in Nitaqat
- Termination (they should inform you!)
- Administrative delays
Your Rights:
- Employers are legally required to renew or officially terminate
- Cannot leave you in legal limbo
- You have recourse through labor office
Steps to Take:
- Document all communication with employer
- File complaint with Ministry of Human Resources
- Contact labor office (مكتب العمل)
- Seek legal counsel
- Know your rights under Saudi labor law
Helpline: Ministry of Human Resources: 19911
Problem 3: Online Methods Not Working
Technical Troubleshooting:
Website Issues:
- Clear browser cache and cookies
- Try different browser (Chrome recommended)
- Disable VPN/proxy
- Try during off-peak hours (early morning)
- Check if site is under maintenance
Absher Login Problems:
- Verify username/password
- Check if mobile number is still registered
- Try password reset
- May need to visit Absher service center
Data Not Showing:
- Verify Iqama number entered correctly (10 digits, no spaces)
- Check date of birth format
- Try both Hijri and Gregorian calendars
- Ensure Iqama is actually issued (if very new)
Problem 4: Family Members’ Iqama Expiry
Checking Dependent Iqamas:
Through Absher:
- Login to your account
- Select “Family Members” or “Dependents”
- Click on each family member
- View their individual Iqama details
Important: Family Iqamas typically have the SAME expiry date as the sponsor (you), but not always! Always verify individually.
Through MOL:
- Check each person separately
- Use their individual Iqama numbers
- Their dates of birth
Renewal: Family renewals happen together with yours, but requires:
- Valid marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Birth certificates (for children)
- Valid passports for all
- Medical insurance for all
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check my Iqama expiry date?
Ideally every 3-6 months, and definitely:
- Before any international travel
- When planning major purchases
- Before signing rental agreements
- When starting any new service
Can I travel if my Iqama expires while I’m abroad?
Very risky! Your Iqama should be valid for your entire trip plus a buffer. If it expires while you’re outside Saudi Arabia:
- Reentry may be denied
- You’ll need sponsor intervention
- Can result in costly delays
- Always ensure validity before international travel
What’s the minimum validity needed for exit-reentry visa?
Jawazat typically requires at least 30 days of Iqama validity remaining. The exit-reentry visa duration cannot exceed your Iqama validity period (maximum 60 days).
Do I need to carry my physical Iqama card always?
YES! Saudi law requires you to carry your Iqama at all times. Police or authorities can request it, and not having it can result in fines. Many people also keep a photo in their phone as backup.
Can my employer see when I check my Iqama?
No. Your personal inquiries through MOL or Absher are private. Employers have separate systems to manage employee Iqamas.
Is there a grace period after Iqama expires?
Technically NO. The moment your Iqama expires, you’re in overstay status. However, penalties escalate over time:
- First few days: Minimal fine, easy renewal
- First month: Moderate fines
- Beyond that: Serious fines and legal issues
Can I renew my Iqama myself?
No. Iqama renewal must be done by your sponsor (employer or family sponsor). You cannot do it independently as an employee.
What if my passport expires before my Iqama?
Your Iqama cannot be valid beyond your passport expiry. Renew your passport FIRST, then update your Iqama with the new passport details.
Final Thoughts: Stay Proactive, Stay Legal
Your Iqama is literally your lifeline in Saudi Arabia. It’s not just a card – it’s your legal right to live, work, and thrive in the Kingdom. Letting it expire is like letting your life go on pause, except with fines and legal complications added in.
My Personal Recommendations:
- Check your Iqama expiry TODAY – Seriously, right now. It takes 2 minutes.
- Set up Absher if you haven’t already – You’ll use it for tons of things beyond Iqama
- Create calendar reminders at 90, 60, 30, and 7 days before expiry
- Check monthly – Make it a routine, like checking your bank balance
- Inform HR early – Don’t wait for them to remember; they manage hundreds of employees!
- Keep documents ready – Valid passport, photos, insurance card
- Know your rights – Understand Saudi labor law and your protections
- Build good relationships with your HR department – They’re your primary contact for renewal
- Monitor your Nitaqat status – If it goes red, address it immediately
- Never travel internationally without verifying your Iqama has plenty of validity remaining
Remember: An expired Iqama doesn’t just inconvenience you – it can derail your entire life in Saudi Arabia. Jobs, housing, banking, healthcare, travel – everything depends on that little green card being valid.
Stay informed, stay organized, and stay legal. Your future self will thank you!
Quick Reference Card:
MOL Portal: portal.mol.gov.sa
Absher Website: absher.sa
Absher App: Available on iOS & Android
SMS Service: Send “IQAMA [number]” to 989898
MHRSD Helpline: 19911
Check Frequency: Every 3-6 months minimum
Renewal Start Time: 60-90 days before expiry
Minimum Required Validity for Exit-Reentry: 30 days
Carry Physical Iqama: ALWAYS (legally required!)
Action Item: Check your Iqama expiry date RIGHT NOW! 📱✅
Stay legal, stay safe, stay stress-free! 🇸🇦
Useful Links:
Makkah Bus Route: Your Complete Guide to Navigating the Holy City
Riyadh Postal Code: Your Complete Guide to الرمز البريدي الرياض
Saudi Arabia Postal Code: Complete Guide to ZIP Codes in All Cities (2025)
How to Check STC Balance in Saudi Arabia: Quick & Easy Methods
How to Check How Many SIMs Are Registered on My Iqama (2025 Guide)
Border Number Check: How to Find Your Iqama Number in Saudi Arabia (2025)
How to Check MOL KSA Iqama Huroob Status: Complete 2025 Guide
CCHI Insurance Check: Complete Guide to Verify Your Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia (2025)
