Introduction: Check Iqama Profession Online in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, expatriates often encounter the need to check Iqama Profession, also referred to as “Mehna.” It’s of paramount importance to verify that the profession indicated on your Iqama card aligns with your actual occupation, as any discrepancies can lead to potential legal consequences and financial penalties. In this comprehensive guide, we will navigate you through the step-by-step process of checking your Iqama profession online, utilizing the latest procedures established by the Saudi government. Additionally, we’ll delve into the significance of this verification and how it profoundly influences your residency and employment within the country.
Understanding Iqama Profession (Mehna)
Before we dive into the details of how to check your Iqama profession, let’s understand what “Iqama profession” or “Mehna” means. In Saudi Arabia, the Iqama profession refers to the specific job category or profession that is mentioned on your Iqama card. This professional designation is a vital piece of information, and it’s imperative that it precisely mirrors your real job. If someone in Saudi Arabia asks about your “Mehna,” they are essentially inquiring about your Iqama profession, not your profession outside the country.
It’s important to note that working in a profession other than the one specified in your Iqama is illegal, and it can lead to significant consequences. Article 38 of Saudi Labor Law strictly forbids employers from employing workers in a profession that differs from the one specified in their Iqama.
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Why Verifying Your Iqama Profession Matters
You might wonder why it’s crucial to verify your Iqama profession. Well, there are several reasons:
Legal Compliance
First and foremost, ensuring that your Iqama profession matches your actual job is a matter of legal compliance. Saudi Arabian authorities conduct regular checks to ensure that expatriates are working within the legal framework. If your Iqama profession doesn’t align with your job, you could face hefty fines or even detention.
Employment and Job Changes
If you’ve recently changed your job or received a job promotion, it’s essential to update your Iqama profession accordingly. Neglecting to do this can result in challenges in your new position and potential legal complications. Employers are also accountable for ensuring that their employees’ Iqama professions correspond to their current job positions.
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Smooth Immigration and Travel
Having the correct Iqama profession is essential for smooth immigration and travel within Saudi Arabia. Authorities may check your Iqama during travel, and discrepancies can lead to delays and complications.
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How to Check Iqama Profession?
Now that we’ve established the importance of verifying your Iqama profession let’s explore the two primary methods for checking it:
1. Checking Iqama Profession via Iqama Card
The traditional method for checking your Iqama profession is by examining your physical Iqama card. Follow these steps:
1.1. Locate Your Iqama Card: Your Iqama card contains crucial details, and your profession is one of them. It’s typically found on the 8th line of the card.
1.2. Inspect the “Mehna” Category: Your profession, or “Mehna,” can be found in this category. This is how government officials often check your Iqama profession during inspections or raids.
While this method is reliable, it requires having your physical Iqama card in hand. If you’ve recently changed your profession, you might not be able to check it using this method until you receive your updated Iqama card.
2. Checking Iqama Profession Change Status Online Through (MOI)
The Saudi government has introduced a more convenient way to check Iqama profession status online. This method leverages cutting-edge technology to simplify the process and make it more user-friendly. Here’s how it works:
2.1. Access the Official Website: Visit the official website of the Ministry of Interior (MOI) of Saudi Arabia (https://www.moi.gov.sa).
2.2. Log In or Register: If you’ve already signed up on the website, simply log in using your account credentials. If you don’t already have an account, you’ll have to go through the registration process.
2.3. Select Your Preferred Language: The default language of the website is Arabic. Feel free to switch to English or your preferred language for more convenient navigation.
2.4. Access Your Dashboard: Once you’re logged in, go to “My Dashboard.” Here, you can view all your personal information, including your profession.
2.5. Check Your Profession: Your current and updated Iqama profession will be displayed in this section. It’s a convenient way to verify if your profession matches your actual job.
3. Check Iqama Profession through Absher
Absher is a vital online platform that allows expatriates to access various government services in Saudi Arabia. Checking your Iqama profession through Absher is a convenient and user-friendly method. Here’s how you can do Check Iqama Profession:
3.1: Log in to Your Absher Account: To begin, visit the Absher website (https://absher.sa) and log in to your account.
3.2: Access Your Dashboard: After logging in, look for the three lines icon in the upper right corner. Simply click on it, and a menu will drop down. From there, choose “Dashboard.”
3.3: Navigate to “More Details”: On the Dashboard page, click on “More Details.”
3.4: Check Your Iqama Profession: In the “More Details” section, you can find your current Iqama profession under the “Job Category” heading. If you find your new profession listed here, it confirms that your Iqama profession has been successfully updated.
4. Check the Iqama Mehna through Qiwa
Qiwa is another platform that provides a method for checking your Iqama profession. Here’s how you can use Qiwa to verify your Iqama profession:
4.1: Register with Qiwa: Begin by registering yourself with the Qiwa platform. You can do this by visiting their official website (https://auth.qiwa.sa/).
4.2: Log in to Your Qiwa Individual Account: After registration, log in to your Qiwa Individual account.
4.3: Access Your Iqama Profession: On the platform, you can easily find your Iqama profession displayed, allowing you to verify its accuracy.
By using both Absher and Qiwa, you can ensure that your Iqama profession aligns with your actual job. This is crucial for legal compliance and a hassle-free experience while living and working in Saudi Arabia.
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Drawbacks of Having Different Professions
It’s important to emphasize the potential drawbacks of having a different Iqama profession than your actual job:
Legal Consequences
Working in a profession that doesn’t match your Iqama can result in severe legal consequences. If authorities discover the mismatch, you may face fines, penalties, and even detention.
Employer Responsibility
It is the responsibility of employers to make sure that their employees’ Iqama professions accurately match their actual job roles. If your employer assigns you a different profession, it’s their responsibility to update it in your records.
Requesting Profession Changes
If your Iqama profession doesn’t match your job, you can request a change through your HR office. It’s crucial for your company to take this action to avoid legal issues. Changing your Iqama profession typically requires specific documentation, including your attested degrees and profession registration. Be prepared for associated fees, which can amount to 1000 Rials.
Check Iqama Profession: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the ability to accurately “Check Iqama Profession” isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a fundamental step towards ensuring a secure and fulfilling life as an expatriate in Saudi Arabia. By following the detailed steps provided in this guide, you can easily verify your Iqama profession through various channels, including your Iqama card, the official MOI website, and user-friendly platforms like Absher and Qiwa. This process not only keeps you in adherence with the law but also guarantees that your profession aligns with your official records. It’s a key element in maintaining a trouble-free and prosperous career in this diverse and dynamic country.
What is the Iqama profession (Mehna)?
The Iqama profession, also known as “Mehna,” refers to the specific job category or profession mentioned on your Iqama card.
Can I work in a profession different from my Iqama profession?
Working in a profession that differs from your Iqama profession is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can lead to legal consequences.
How can I change my Iqama profession?
To change your Iqama profession, you need to contact your HR office and provide the necessary documentation, including attested degrees and profession registration. Read out this article: https://agtsipk.com/saudi-arabia/how-to-change-iqama-profession-in-ksa/
Are there fees associated with changing my Iqama profession?
Yes, there are fees for changing your Iqama profession, typically amounting to 1000 Rials.
Is it my responsibility to change my Iqama profession?
No, it’s typically your company’s responsibility to initiate the change in your Iqama profession to avoid legal issues.
