Saudi Arabia: Iqma Renenwal Now Possible Even If The Family Member Is Abroad

Recently, the General Directorate of Passports of Saudi Arabia announced a new policy regarding Iqma. In case you’re wondering, this is a residency permit, and the announcement was regarding the permit’s renewal. According to the new policy, it allows residents to renew their permit, even if the family members are abroad.

New Policy For Iqma Renewal

According to a recent report by the Gulf News, it was mentioned that Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has passed a new policy regarding the renewal of Iqma. This allows the residents to renew their permits, even if one of the companions or dependents is outside the kingdom. However, it is worth mentioning that the head of the household has to remain in the country for this renewal. With this decision, expatriates who are facing difficulties in renewing their residency permits because their family members are abroad can now breathe a sigh of relief.

What Does It Mean For The Residents?

Going by the new policy, an expat can go through the process if the head of the household is within Saudi Arabia, as it is sufficient to proceed with the process. This has several humanitarian and administrative implications. Addressing a lot of common situations which is faced by the resident families, it truly makes life easier for the expatriats. For instance, if one parent is accompanying a sick family member for medical treatment abroad, Iqma can be renewed, provided the head of the household is within the country.

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Extension Of Exit And Re-Entry Visas Now Fully Electronic

As it happens, before this, it was important that all family members are in Saudi Arabia for the renewal. This often leads to delay and even potential legal risks, especially if the permit is expired. Moreover, the extension of exit and re-entry visas for family members outside the kingdom is now completely electronic. They can do so through the SADAD system and the Absher platform. So, this removes their need to be present in person at the passport offices for this process.

If you are an expat living in Saudi Arabia and you have to get your Iqma renewed in the coming months, you might want to keep this development in mind.

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