Managing your Iqama (residence permit) validity is crucial for every expatriate living in Saudi Arabia. While Absher remains the primary platform for government services, many residents face challenges accessing it due to technical issues, forgotten credentials, or unregistered mobile numbers.
Why Checking the Iqama Expiry Date is Essential in Saudi Arabia
Your Iqama serves as your legal identity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. An expired Iqama can lead to severe consequences that affect your employment, residency status, and financial stability.
Consequences of Expired Iqama
| Consequence | Penalty/Impact |
| Financial Fine | SAR 500 – SAR 1,000 for first offense |
| Deportation Risk | Immediate deportation for repeat offenders |
| Employment Termination | Employers may face penalties for employing workers with expired Iqama |
| Travel Restrictions | Cannot exit or re-enter Saudi Arabia |
| Banking Services | Restricted access to financial services |
| Healthcare Access | Limited access to medical facilities |
According to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), over 10 million expatriates currently hold valid Iqamas in Saudi Arabia as of 2024, making regular status verification essential for this significant workforce.
Method 1: Check Iqama Expiry Using MOL (HRSD) Portal
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD), formerly known as MOL, provides a reliable alternative to Absher for checking Iqama status.
Step-by-Step Guide for MOL Iqama Check
Step 1: Visit the official HRSD website at hrsd.gov.sa
Step 2: Enter your 10-digit Iqama number accurately
Step 3: Enter your Date of Birth
Step 6: Complete the verification captcha
Step 7: Click “Search” to view your Iqama details
Information Displayed Through MOL Portal
- Iqama number and expiry date
- Sponsor/employer details
- Profession as registered in the system
- Work permit status
- Any pending violations or fines
Pro Tip: The MOL system updates every 24-48 hours, so recently renewed Iqamas may take time to reflect in the system.
Method 2: Muqeem Portal for Iqama Status Verification
The Muqeem portal, managed by the General Directorate of Passports, offers comprehensive residency information accessible primarily to employers but also useful for individual queries.
How to Access Muqeem Portal
- Visit muqeem.sa
- Log in using employer credentials (if applicable)
- Navigate to “Reports” and select “Active Residents” and Search
- View the complete list of employees and their “Iqama Expiry” Column
Muqeem Portal Features
| Feature | Availability |
| Iqama Expiry Date | ✓ Available |
| Exit/Re-entry Visa Status | ✓ Available |
| Final Exit Status | ✓ Available |
| Work Permit Validity | ✓ Available |
| Dependents Information | ✓ Available |
| Traffic Violations | ✓ Available |
Method 3: GOSI Website for Employment Verification
The General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) provides an indirect method to verify your Iqama status through employment records.
GOSI Verification Process
Step 1: Access gosi.gov.sa
Step 2: Click on “E-Services” in the main menu
Step 3: Select “Subscriber Services”
Step 4: Enter your Iqama number and date of birth
Step 5: View your insurance subscription details
The GOSI system displays your employment status, which requires a valid Iqama. If your subscription is active, your Iqama remains valid with your current employer.
Method 4: Qiwa Platform for Work Permit Status
Qiwa, the digital labor market platform, provides detailed work authorization information linked to your Iqama.
Checking Status Through Qiwa
- Visit qiwa.sa
- Register or log in to your account by Nafath App, Username, or Password
- After clicking “Individual Account.”Access the “My Work Permit” section
- View permit validity and Iqama connection
- Check for any pending actions or violations
- You can also check you Iqama information in Qiwa platform
Key Statistics on Qiwa Platform Usage (2024)
| Metric | Value |
| Registered Workers | 8+ million |
| Monthly Active Users | 2.5 million |
| Work Permits Processed | 500,000+ monthly |
| Average Response Time | Under 3 minutes |
Method 5: SMS Service for Iqama Inquiry
The Ministry of Interior offers SMS-based inquiry services for quick Iqama verification.
SMS Inquiry Process
Send an SMS to 330012 with the following format:
[Your 10-digit Iqama Number]
Example: 2123456789
You will receive an automated response containing:
- Iqama validity status
- Expiry date
- Any pending violations
Note: Standard SMS charges apply based on your mobile carrier. Response time is typically within 2-5 minutes.
Method 6: Third-Party Authorized Portals
Several government-authorized third-party platforms provide Iqama verification services:
Nafath Authentication App
The Nafath app serves as Saudi Arabia’s digital identity authentication system and can be used to access various government services including Iqama verification.
Features:
- Biometric authentication
- Secure identity verification
- Integration with multiple government platforms
- Available on iOS and Android
Tawakkalna Application
While primarily known for health services, Tawakkalna displays basic Iqama information for registered users.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Problem 1: Iqama Number Not Found
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect number entry
- Recent issuance not yet updated in the system
- Technical synchronization issues
Solution: Wait 48-72 hours for new Iqamas and retry. Contact your employer if the issue persists.
Problem 2: System Shows Different Expiry Date
Possible Causes:
- Pending renewal not processed
- Employer-initiated changes
- Data synchronization delays
Solution: Verify with your employer and check the physical Iqama card.
Problem 3: Access Denied Errors
Possible Causes:
- High traffic on the platform
- Maintenance periods
- Regional access restrictions
Solution: Try accessing during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening Saudi time).
Iqama Renewal Timeline and Fees (2026)
Understanding renewal timelines helps you plan and avoid penalties.
Renewal Fee Structure
| Category | Annual Fee (SAR) |
| Single Worker | 650 |
| First Dependent | 400 |
| Additional Dependents | 400 each |
| Late Renewal Penalty | 500-1,000 |
| Work Permit (per year) | 9,600* |
*Work permit fees vary based on company’s Saudization compliance and category.
Recommended Renewal Timeline
3 Months Before Expiry ➜ Begin gathering documents
2 Months Before Expiry ➜ Initiate renewal with employer
1 Month Before Expiry ➜ Complete all procedures
2 Weeks Before Expiry ➜ Verify renewal status online
Comparison: Different Platforms for Iqama Verification
| Platform | Ease of Use | Information Detail | Reliability | Registration Required |
| MOL/HRSD | High | Medium | High | No |
| Muqeem | Medium | High | Very High | Yes |
| GOSI | Medium | Low | High | Optional |
| Qiwa | High | Medium | High | Yes |
| SMS Service | Very High | Low | High | No |
| Absher | High | Very High | Very High | Yes |
Conclusion
Checking your Iqama expiry date without Absher is entirely possible through multiple government platforms in 2026. The MOL (HRSD) portal remains the most accessible option for individual workers, while Muqeem and Qiwa provide comprehensive details for those with account access. Regular verification ensures you maintain legal residency status and avoid costly penalties.
Remember to check your status at least 60-90 days before expiry and coordinate with your employer for timely renewal. Bookmark the official websites mentioned in this guide and keep your Iqama number readily accessible for quick verification whenever needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I check my Iqama expiry date without any registration?
Yes, the MOL portal and SMS service (330012) allow verification using only your Iqama number without prior registration.
How often should I check my Iqama status?
Check at least monthly and immediately before any travel plans or important transactions.
Is the Iqama expiry date the same as the work permit expiry?
Not necessarily. While often aligned, work permits and Iqamas can have different validity periods. Always verify both.
How long does Iqama renewal take in 2026?
Standard processing takes 3-7 working days, assuming all documents are complete and fees are paid.
Can my employer check my Iqama status?
Yes, employers have full access through Muqeem and Qiwa platforms to verify employee Iqama status.
