Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has introduced a major policy update allowing residents to renew their Iqama (residency permit) even if one or more dependents or companions are currently outside the Kingdom—provided the head of the household remains within Saudi Arabia.
This move is aimed at easing the renewal process for expatriates who have previously faced difficulties maintaining their residency status due to family members being abroad.
Under the new rule, the physical presence of the head of the household in the Kingdom is now sufficient to complete the Iqama renewal. This is a significant shift from the previous requirement, which mandated the presence of all listed dependents within the country.
Supporting Families in Common Situations
The updated policy holds both humanitarian and administrative value, addressing everyday scenarios such as children studying overseas, a family member traveling for medical treatment, or emergencies that require relatives to remain abroad temporarily.
In the past, such situations often led to delays in Iqama renewals and, in some cases, legal complications when residency permits expired. Now, families can maintain their legal status and continue accessing essential services, as long as the renewal is handled by the household head residing in Saudi Arabia.
Streamlined Visa Extensions Now Online
Additionally, the Directorate confirmed that the extension of exit and re-entry visas for dependents currently outside the Kingdom can now be done entirely online. The process is available through the “SADAD” payment system and the “Absher” platform, removing the need for in-person visits to passport offices.
This digital shift is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to modernize administrative services and improve convenience for residents and their families.
For more updates on Iqama fees, visa services, and eligibility for premium residency status, residents are encouraged to monitor official government platforms.
