Iqama Number Issued In Saudi Arabia: Check online 2 Easy way

Iqama Number ISSUED In Saudi Arabia. If you’re a new expatriate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, one of the first and most critical steps after your arrival is ensuring that your Iqama number has been issued. This unique 10-digit number, assigned to every legal resident, is your gateway to accessing essential services in the Kingdom from mobile connections and healthcare to banking, employment, and travel within the country.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to check if your Iqama number is issued online using 2 easy methods, along with additional information about SIM registration and what to do if your Iqama has not yet been issued.

Saudi Arabia’s Iqama is like a work permit. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) allows foreign nationals to reside and work within its borders through the Iqama permit. This national residency and employment license is issued by the Ministry of Interior.

Iqama requests must be filed within 90 days of the employee’s presence with a sponsor in the Kingdom, usually an employer. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Labour and Social Development typically takes 1-3 weeks to authorize an Iqama.

The Iqama number is a unique 10-digit identification number assigned to expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia. It appears on the residence permit card (Iqama) and is a vital part of life in the Kingdom.

This number is used in:

• Opening bank accounts
• Accessing medical care
• Registering for online government services
• Obtaining a SIM card
• Paying utility bills
• Legal employment and travel purposes

It’s important to note that the number encircled in red color on the example resident card is an iqama number or an iqama ID number. It is possible to find your Iqama number or your Iqama ID in this way.

Here are two easy ways to check if your Iqama number is issued:

Method 1: Check Iqama Number via Border Number on MoL Portal

This method is the most reliable for new arrivals. Step-by-step Instructions:

• Step 1: Visit the official Ministry of Labor (MoL) portal at mol.gov.sa.

• Step 2: Change the language to UK English since you cannot read Arabic.

• Step 3: Enter your Date of Birth (as per passport)
• Step 4: The captcha code must be entered in order to proceed.

• Step 5: You may need to enter a four-digit verification code sent via text message to your registered phone number.

• Step 6: The system will show your name, nationality, gender, and Iqama number (if issued)

Method 2: Check Iqama Status via Passport Number (Limited)

While it was once possible to check your Iqama number by passport, this method has now been limited. However, you can still use this process to verify whether your work permit and Iqama fee have been paid. How to Check:

• Visit the Ministry of Labor (MoL) portal.
• Select Work Permits Service.
• Enter your Border Number and the Captcha Code.
• If it shows “Payment Completed”, your Iqama number will be issued shortly.

According to Saudi regulations, if your employer fails to issue your Iqama within 90 days, you are legally allowed to transfer your sponsorship without your employer’s consent.

This means:

• You can apply for a new job
• Begin the sponsorship transfer process
• No legal action will be taken against you for the delay

Make sure to keep proof of your entry date and follow up with the MoL or your local labor office.

In Saudi Arabia, getting a SIM card is directly linked to your Iqama number. The Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) provides an online portal where residents can verify the SIM cards registered under their Iqama. Steps to Check SIMs Linked to Your Iqama:

• Step 1: Visit the official CITC website.
• Step 2: Select Individual Inquiry Service.
• Step 3: Enter your Iqama Number and Date of Birth (Hijri).
• Step 4: Confirm whether you own a mobile phone.
• Step 5: Enter the Captcha Code.
• Step 6: Click Search.
• Step 7: Enter the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone.
• Step 8: Click Submit to view all SIM cards registered to your Iqama.

Your Iqama status can be determined by the colour of the dates. When your Iqama is red, it is no longer valid. Expiring Iqama can result in substantial penalties. Your company must renew your Iqama a few days before it expires. If you are found working without a valid Iqama, you could be prosecuted.

Ensuring that your Iqama number is issued is not just about legal status — it’s about full integration into the Saudi system. From banking and healthcare to phone services and employment, this number is your lifeline.

Quick Recap:

• Use MoL Portal with your Border Number to check if your Iqama is issued.
• Work permit payment status also indicates upcoming Iqama issuance.
• Check SIM card registration through the CITC portal.
• Act quickly if your Iqama is not issued within 90 days of arrival.

Always rely on official Saudi government portals for updates and verification. Stay informed and make your journey as a resident in Saudi Arabia smooth and secure.