{"id":2240,"date":"2023-12-23T10:15:22","date_gmt":"2023-12-23T10:15:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.makkahtour.co.uk\/blogger\/?p=2240"},"modified":"2025-12-23T12:52:32","modified_gmt":"2025-12-23T12:52:32","slug":"what-is-iqama-and-why-its-essential-to-have-iqama-while-living-in-the-united-kingdom","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.makkahtour.co.uk\/blogs\/what-is-iqama-and-why-its-essential-to-have-iqama-while-living-in-the-united-kingdom\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Iqama And Why It\u2019s Essential To Have Iqama While Living In The United Kingdom?"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you want to settle permanently in Saudi Arabia,<\/strong> you must obtain a resident card that is known as iqama. It\u2019s like an identity card to live in the state of Saudi Arabia when you want to settle legally. However, with a valid iqama, you can stay in Saudi Arabia for long term work.<\/p>\n

Generally, the iqama application procedure is initiated by a Saudi employer who recruits an expatriate. Any person can apply for iqama<\/strong> for their family members. It is not an option to leave; if you want to settle permanently in Saudi Arabia, thus you must apply for Iqama because it\u2019s an essential act that will be required to complete several formalities.<\/p>\n

What Is The Procedure Of Applying?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Only a Saudi employer can afford to have their iqama. There is no hard and fast rule for applying the Saudi\u2019s iqama<\/strong>; you have to give your passport and two recent photos in the application. Often, the procedure is managed by the company’s human resources department.<\/p>\n

If you have already had a medical examination to obtain a Saudi Arabia visa<\/strong>, you will have to pass a second medical examination for getting the iqama. This medical examination must be performed in a local clinic of the Saudi authorities.<\/p>\n

Once you have received your iqama, you will be able to apply for your family members. The procedure differs slightly because your wife and children will be related to you so that you will be responsible for your family members and their status. After some process, you have to sign in the application, and with the valid procedure, you should receive your iqama in less than two weeks.<\/p>\n

The Advantages Of Iqama<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Having an iqama is essential to perform certain formalities. Meanwhile, Saudi\u2019s residency status is also accompanied by some constraints and responsibilities:<\/p>\n