Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has announced a new policy enabling residents to renew their “Iqama” (residency permit) even if one of their dependents or companions is currently outside the Kingdom, as long as the head of the household remains in Saudi Arabia.

This new decision aims to assist expatriates who have faced challenges in renewing their residency permits due to family members being abroad.

With this policy, the presence of the head of the household within the country is now sufficient to carry out the renewal process.

The policy holds important humanitarian and administrative significance, addressing common scenarios experienced by resident families, such as children traveling for educational purposes, a parent accompanying a sick relative for treatment, or family emergencies occurring overseas.

Previously, the requirement for all family members to be present in Saudi Arabia led to delays and potential legal issues if the Iqama expired.

Under the revised guidelines, families can maintain their legal status and continue to receive essential services, even when one member is abroad, as long as the head of the household is within the Kingdom and oversees the renewal process.

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The Directorate has clarified that the extension of exit and re-entry visas for family members currently outside the Kingdom is now fully electronic.

This process can be completed through the “SADAD” system and the “Absher” platform, eliminating the need for in-person visits to passport offices.