Saudi Arabia’s Jawazat has clarified that employers face a SR500 fine for delaying a domestic worker’s Iqama beyond 90 days after entry, while the residence permit can be issued electronically through Absher after completing the required fees and medical examination.

SR500 Fine for Delaying Domestic Worker Iqama

The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has clarified the penalty for failing to issue a domestic worker’s Iqama within the required period.

According to the clarification, a SR500 fine applies when the resident identity is not issued within 90 days of the worker’s arrival in Saudi Arabia. This means employers should not assume that a probation or training period allows them to postpone Iqama issuance.

Jawazat has previously clarified that the Iqama issuance process requires payment of the applicable fees and completion of a medical examination.

Does the 90-Day Period Include Training or Probation?

For domestic workers, the 90-day period is important when determining when the Iqama must be issued. Employers should complete the residence permit process within the applicable period rather than waiting until the end of a training or probation arrangement.

For additional information about delaying Iqama issuance during a probation period, see Jawazat’s clarification on delaying Iqama issuance until the probation period ends.

How to Issue a Domestic Worker Iqama

Employers can complete the domestic worker Iqama issuance process electronically through the appropriate government platform.

Iqama Issuance Through Absher

• Log in to the employer’s Absher account.

• Access the relevant domestic worker or employment services.

• Select the service for issuing the resident identity.

• Pay the required Iqama fees and any applicable fines.

• Complete the required medical examination.

• Submit the application and complete the electronic issuance process.

Jawazat has confirmed that Iqama issuance can be completed electronically after the applicable requirements have been fulfilled. A medical examination is also required for the procedure.

Medical Examination Required for Iqama Issuance

A medical examination is one of the requirements for completing the Iqama issuance procedure. Employers should ensure that the domestic worker completes the required examination before finalizing the residence permit process.

Jawazat’s previous clarification specifically confirmed that the medical examination must be completed as part of the Iqama issuance procedure.

What Happens If the Iqama Is Delayed for Years?

In cases where an employer has failed to issue a domestic worker’s Iqama for an extended period, such as four years, the employer should settle the applicable fees and penalties and complete all outstanding requirements before attempting to issue the residence permit.

The exact total amount payable may depend on the worker’s individual circumstances and the applicable government fees. Therefore, employers should check the amount shown through the relevant official electronic service before completing the payment.

Key Points About Domestic Worker Iqama

• 90 days: The Iqama should be issued within the required period after the worker’s arrival.

• SR500 fine: A fine applies when the Iqama is not issued within 90 days.

• Absher: Employers can complete the Iqama issuance process electronically.

• Medical examination: A required medical examination must be completed.

• Fees: Applicable Iqama fees and penalties must be paid before completing the process.

Employers should arrange the domestic worker Iqama promptly after the worker arrives in Saudi Arabia. Completing the process within the required period can help avoid penalties and delays in obtaining the resident identity.