Saudi Arabia Iqama Ban 2025 Full List
Saudi Arabia Iqama Ban 2025 Full List: Saudi Arabia has officially announced updates to its Iqama and residency system for 2025 creating a wave of concern among foreign workers across multiple countries the latest decision includes temporary restrictions and new verification steps for applicants seeking Iqama the legal residence and work permit issued to foreign nationals.
According to recent updates from authorities, the move is part of a broader effort to regulate the labor market, improve sponsor accountability, and ensure that all foreign workers are properly documented under Saudi law while the news has led to confusion among expats, officials confirm that those with valid Iqamas can continue to work and reside in the Kingdom without interruption.
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Countries Affected by the 2025 Iqama Ban
The Iqama restrictions introduced in 2025 apply primarily to new applicants, not existing residents. Authorities have clarified that renewal for current employees will continue as usual, but new Iqama issuance may experience additional verification or delays depending on nationality.
These changes are largely administrative and are meant to ensure proper compliance with Saudi labor and immigration laws. Workers planning to move to Saudi Arabia are advised to contact their employers or sponsoring companies to confirm their eligibility before applying.
List of countries currently facing temporary restrictions:
- Pakistan
- India
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Philippines
- Nepal
- Indonesia
- Sri Lanka
Officials have stated that these measures are not permanent bans but part of a system review. Applicants from the listed countries may need to submit additional documentation or complete embassy-level verification before approval.
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New Iqama Rules and Eligibility Requirements for 2025
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has also updated the eligibility and verification system for Iqama issuance and renewal in 2025 these new requirements focus on transparency, sponsor responsibility, and digital tracking through the Absher platform.
Under the new framework, employers must ensure all documentation is valid, verified, and submitted before the Iqama can be issued. Expats must meet updated eligibility conditions to qualify for legal residence and work authorization in Saudi Arabia.
Updated Iqama Rules 2025:
- Employers must register all workers under their legal sponsorship.
- Renewals must be completed before expiry to avoid fines or deportation.
- Health insurance must be valid and linked to the Iqama system.
- All biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) must be verified in Absher.
- Iqama fees and medical clearances must be paid through authorized channels only.
Eligibility Requirements for New Applicants:
- Valid job offer from a registered Saudi employer.
- Passport valid for at least six months.
- Completed medical tests from approved centers.
- Digitally attested employment contract.
- Embassy or consulate verification (for selected countries).
- Submission of all documents through the employer’s Absher account.
These measures are designed to prevent misuse of work visas, strengthen national security checks, and ensure that only qualified workers enter the Saudi job market.
What Expat Workers Should Do Now Official Guidelines
For expatriates already living and working in Saudi Arabia, the government has issued clear instructions to avoid penalties or complications during this transitional period. Workers should stay informed through their employers, keep all records updated, and ensure they carry their valid Iqama at all times.
Employers, on the other hand, are responsible for managing renewals, paying fees, and ensuring that no employee works under an expired or invalid Iqama. Ignoring these obligations can lead to heavy fines or suspension of business licenses.
Guidelines for Expats and Employers:
- Check Iqama status regularly on the official Absher portal.
- Renew Iqama at least one month before expiry.
- Report any loss or damage of Iqama immediately to local authorities.
- Ensure that job and residency details match across all documents.
- Never work under a different sponsor without approval from the Ministry.
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