The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia has announced a new policy allowing residents to renew their Iqama (residency permit) even if one or more of their dependents or companions are currently outside the Kingdom—provided the head of the household remains within Saudi Arabia.
This significant update aims to ease the burden on expatriates who previously faced difficulties renewing their residency due to a family member’s absence abroad. Under the revised rules, the presence of the household head in the country is now sufficient to proceed with the renewal process.
The decision is seen as both a humanitarian and practical measure, addressing real-life situations such as children studying overseas, family members seeking medical treatment abroad, or emergency travel. In the past, the requirement for all dependents to be physically present in Saudi Arabia caused delays and posed legal risks if the Iqama expired during their absence.
With the new regulation in place, resident families can now maintain their legal status and uninterrupted access to essential services, even if some members are temporarily outside the Kingdom.
Additionally, the Directorate has clarified that exit and re-entry visas for family members who are abroad can now be extended electronically through the SADAD system and the Absher platform, eliminating the need for in-person visits to passport offices.
This updated process reflects the Kingdom’s continued efforts to enhance the convenience and efficiency of its residency and visa services for expatriate families.