Change Picture on Iqama In Saudi Arabia: A Complete 2025 Guide
Change Picture on Iqama In Saudi Arabia. As Saudi Iqama, I am your official identification document in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ensuring the accuracy of the details printed on me especially your personal photo is not just important; it’s mandatory.
In recent years, the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has emphasized the need for residents to change the picture on Iqama if it no longer accurately reflects their current appearance. Whether due to aging, medical procedures, or any other noticeable transformation, having an outdated or mismatched photo could lead to complications during verification, travel, or government transactions.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how and when to change your photo on your Saudi Iqama, including eligibility, required conditions, and a step-by-step process using the Absher platform.
Read Also: Change Iqama Name In Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)
Why You Should Change The Picture on Iqama
Updating the photo on your Iqama is crucial when there’s a significant difference between your current appearance and the photo printed on the card. A mismatched photo can lead to identity verification issues, delays at airports, denial of services, or rejection of official requests.
The Saudi Passport Authority (Jawazat) requires the Iqama photo to be a recent, accurate likeness of the resident. This policy ensures smooth operations and high-level security across all government and private sectors in Saudi Arabia.
Conditions To Change Picture on Iqama
Before proceeding to update the photo on your Iqama, make sure you meet the following official conditions set by Jawazat:
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Your passport must be up-to-date and not expired. |
| Recent Passport Photo | The photo in your passport should be recent and reflect your current appearance. |
| Uncovered Head in Photo | The photo must show the head uncovered (for males), as per official guidelines. |
| Prior Appointment | An appointment must be booked in advance via the Absher platform. |
How To Change Picture on Iqama: Step-by-Step Process (2025)
Here’s how to change the picture on your Iqama through the Absher platform, which is the official portal for Saudi residents and citizens for government services: Step-by-Step Guide:
- Step 1: Visit the Absher Platform: Open the official Absher website: https://www.absher.sa
- Step 2: Login to Your Absher Account: Enter your username or Iqama number & Provide your password.
- Step 3: Verify Your Identity: Enter the OTP (One-Time Password) received via SMS on your registered mobile number.
- Step 4: Navigate to Appointment Services: Choose “Appointments” Select “Passports” from the list.
- Step 5: Schedule a New Appointment
- Click on “Book a New Appointment”
- Choose your region
- Enter the number of services you want
- Step 6: Select a Jawazat Branch: Choose the nearest passport office (Jawazat) Pick an available date and time.
- Step 7: Enter Required Data: Fill in any additional information required. Click “Confirm Appointment”.
- Step 8: Print Your Appointment Ticket: Save or print the confirmation as proof.
- Step 9: Visit Jawazat Office on Appointment Day
- Bring the printed ticket
- Carry your Iqama and original passport
- Submit a request to change your photo
Important Tips For Changing Your Iqama Photo
- Ensure your new photo matches the standards used in your passport.
- Dress appropriately and avoid hats, sunglasses, or any accessories.
- Don’t forget to bring the appointment confirmation to the Jawazat office.
- The new photo must be clear, recent, and comply with official government guidelines.
Book an Appointment To Change Picture on Iqama
You can easily book your appointment online using the Absher platform:
What Happens After You Submit the Request?
Once you’ve submitted your application at the Jawazat office and they accept your new photo, the updated image will be reflected in the government’s internal records. Your physical Iqama card may not be reissued unless necessary, but your digital Iqama (Muqeem) will reflect the updated photo for all official verifications and services.
FAQs About Change Picture on Iqama In Saudi Arabia
Conclusion
As your official residency permit, I Saudi Iqama serve as your identity within the Kingdom. If your appearance has changed noticeably, it’s not just a recommendation but a requirement to update your photo.
Avoid unnecessary delays at checkpoints, airports, or during any government interaction by following the steps above. The change picture on Iqama process is straightforward when done correctly through Absher and ensures that your identity remains verified and respected in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
