Introduction:
In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, your Iqama serves as your resident ID, containing important information such as your name, nationality, profession (Mehna), address, and more. If you’ve recently changed your passport or acquired a second one, changing your nationality on Iqama in Saudi Arabia is a necessary step. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring a smooth change of nationality on your Saudi residency card.
Why Change Nationality on Saudi Iqama?
Your nationality, listed on the 9th line of your Iqama, plays a crucial role in determining your salary package in Saudi Arabia. Expatriates holding passports from countries like the USA, Canada, or the UK often command higher salaries compared to those with passports from countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, or the Philippines.
Required Documents to Change Nationality
Before embarking on the journey to change your nationality on Iqama, it’s essential to gather the necessary documents. The complete procedure usually spans from 3 to 6 months, during which the Jawazat (Saudi General Directorate of Passports) mandates the submission of specific documents:
- Police station’s report on fingerprints
- New Passport
- Old Passport
- Original Iqama
- Jawazat Form
Notably, obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the embassy is not a prerequisite for changing nationality on Iqama.
How to Change Nationality on Iqama in KSA?
To undergo the process of changing your nationality on Iqama, ensure you have the required documents in hand, including a police station’s report on fingerprints, both your new and old passports, the original Iqama, and a duly filled Jawazat form. These documents form the essential prerequisites for this procedure, which spans from 3 to 6 months.
Step #1 Letter to the Police
- Schedule an appointment with Jawazat using the Resident Services option.
- Clarify the intent behind your visit, prompting the Jawazat official to generate a letter addressed to the police, formally requesting a fingerprint examination.
Step #2. Fingerprints from the Police
A. Visit the Police Station with a Jawazat Letter
Present the Jawazat letter at the police station, explaining the purpose of your visit.
B. Fingerprinting Process
Undergo the fingerprinting process conducted by the police authorities.
C. Possible Interpol Verification
There’s a chance that your fingerprints may undergo verification by Interpol.
D. Retrieve Fingerprint Report
After verification, collect the official fingerprint report from the police station.
Get the Print of the Iqama
Schedule an appointment with Jawazat using the Resident Services option. Take all the above requirements with you. Submit the documents to Jawazat. If the provided information is accurate, the Jawazat official will proceed to change nationality on Iqama. Collect the updated Iqama print from another window.
Final Thoughts:
This complete guide aims to provide clarity on the process of changing nationality on Iqama in Saudi Arabia. Following these steps diligently will ensure a smooth transition and keep you informed about the associated timelines and requirements. Always check with the Jawazat office for any updates or changes to the required documents and processes before initiating the nationality change on your Iqama.
