Iqama For New Born: Guide To Step-By-Step 2025
Iqama For New Born. Welcoming a newborn is a heartwarming experience, especially in a foreign land like Saudi Arabia. However, expatriate families must also fulfill a key legal responsibility obtaining an Iqama for their newborn. This residence permit is essential for the child’s legal stay in the Kingdom and must be processed without delay to avoid penalties.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we explain everything you need to know about getting an Iqama for newborn, whether your baby is born inside or outside Saudi Arabia.
What Is Iqama For Newborn?
The Iqama (residency permit) for newborns is a legal requirement for all expatriate parents living in Saudi Arabia. It provides official recognition to your child under Saudi residency laws, granting them access to healthcare, identification, and legal status.
Whether your child is born in the Kingdom or abroad, they must receive their own Iqama shortly after birth to remain compliant with immigration regulations.
When To Start The Newborn Iqama Process?
The Saudi government mandates that parents begin the Iqama application process for their newborn within 90 days of birth. Failing to do so can result in penalties and fines. So, don’t delayact promptly once your baby is born.Newborn Iqama Requirements in Saudi Arabia
For Babies Born Inside Saudi Arabia
If your baby is born in the Kingdom, here’s what you need to prepare:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Issued by a recognized Saudi hospital |
| Newborn Passport | Must have at least 6 months validity |
| Valid Medical Insurance | Required for healthcare registration |
| Dependent Fee Payment | As mandated by Saudi immigration regulations |
| Recent Baby Photographs | High-quality, passport-size images as per specifications |
| Parents’ Iqama and Passport Copies | For both mother and father |
| Vaccination Card | To ensure required immunizations are completed |
| Marriage Certificate (if applicable) | If the wife is not under husband’s sponsorship, attested by MOFA |
For Babies Born Outside Saudi Arabia
If your child was born outside the Kingdom and you’re bringing them into Saudi Arabia, there are additional newborn Iqama requirements:
- Passport with Border Number Page
- Visa Copy (entry visa or on-arrival stamp)
- Iqama Processing Fee of SR 2,000
- Polio Vaccination Certificate from an authorized hospital
Apply For Iqama For Newborn Via Absher (Step-by-Step)
The process for applying for your baby’s Iqama is primarily done through the Absher platform, followed by a visit to the Jawazat (Passport Office) if needed.
- Step 1: Register or Log in to Absher: Ensure your Absher account is active. Log in with your username and password.
- Step 2: Go to the “Passport” section of the app.
- Step 3: Navigate to Tawasul: Go to My Services > General Services > Tawasul.
- Step 4: Click on “New Request”.
- Step 5: Select the Appropriate Service: Based on your child’s situation:
| Situation | Absher Service Option (Arabic) |
|---|---|
| Born inside Saudi Arabia | إضافة مولود |
| Born outside Saudi Arabia | إضافة. فصل تابع |
Step 6: Fill in Request Description: Explain your request (e.g., “Applying for newborn Iqama”) in Arabic.
- Step 7: Upload Required Documents: Scan all required documents into a single PDF file and attach it.
- Step 8: Submit Request: Click the green submit button and wait for confirmation via SMS.
Resolving Errors and Verifying Application
In case of submission errors:
- Verify all personal details are accurate.
- Ensure your Absher-Jawazat connection is active.
- Make sure uploaded documents are legible and complete.
You can follow up on your application using:
- Absher > General Services > Tawasul > Inquire for Request
Visiting Jawazat to Collect Iqama
Once your request is approved, you’ll need to visit the nearest Jawazat office for final Iqama issuance.
Required Documents for Jawazat Visit:
- Printout of the Accepted Tawasul Request
- Recent Passport-size Photos of Newborn
- Filled Iqama Application Form
- Jawazat Appointment Confirmation
- Supporting Documents (same as uploaded to Absher)
At the Office:
A Jawazat officer will verify your documents and issue the newborn’s Iqama on the same day or schedule a collection date.
Can You Exit Saudi Arabia Without Newborn Iqama?
If both parents hold valid Iqamas, Saudi law generally does not allow a final exit visa for the newborn unless their Iqama is issued first. Make sure to complete the Iqama process before planning international travel.
FAQs About Iqama For New Born
Conclusion
Acquiring an Iqama for your newborn in Saudi Arabia is not just a legal requirement it’s a necessary step for their identity, health coverage, and ability to remain in the Kingdom. Follow the steps, stay organized, and consult the Jawazat or your sponsor if in doubt.
By fulfilling these requirements, your child will enjoy a legally protected and seamless residency experience in Saudi Arabia.
