How to Pay IQAMA Profession Change Fee: A Step-by-Step Guide

Paying the Iqama profession change fee is an essential process for expatriates living in Saudi Arabia. It is a mandatory requirement for those who wish to change their occupation on their Iqama. The process of paying the fee is relatively straightforward, but it can be confusing for those who are new to the country.

To understand the Iqama profession change fee, one must first know what an Iqama is. An Iqama is a residence permit that allows expatriates to live and work in Saudi Arabia. It is an essential document that must be carried at all times. The fee for changing the occupation on the Iqama is a one-time payment that must be made before the process can be completed.

The process of paying the Iqama profession change fee can be completed online through the government payment portal. Expatriates can also pay the fee through Al Rajhi Bank. However, before paying the fee, one must ensure that they have all the necessary documents and information required for the payment process.

Understanding Iqama Profession Change Fee

Changing the Iqama profession in Saudi Arabia requires payment of a fee. The fee amount varies depending on the number of times the profession has been changed. In order to pay the fee, there are different methods available, including online payment through SADAD and payment through banks such as SNB Bank and Al Ahli Bank.

The fee for changing the Iqama profession for the first time is SAR 2,000. For the second time, the fee is SAR 4,000, and for the third time and every transfer thereafter, the fee is SAR 6,000. It is important to note that the fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the profession change request is approved or not.

To pay the fee through SADAD, the individual needs to log in to their SADAD account and choose the “Government Payments” option. From there, they can select the “Change of Occupation Iqama Number” service and enter the required information, including the Iqama number and the fee amount.

Alternatively, the fee can be paid through SNB Bank or Al Ahli Bank. To pay through these banks, the individual needs to visit the bank’s website and select the “Government Payments” option. From there, they can select the “Change of Occupation Iqama Number” service and enter the required information, including the Iqama number and the fee amount.

It is important to ensure that the fee is paid before submitting the profession change request. Failure to pay the fee may result in the request being rejected. Additionally, it is important to keep a record of the payment confirmation, as it may be required as proof of payment in the future.

Process of Iqama Profession Change

To change the profession on an Iqama in Saudi Arabia, expatriates must follow a specific process. The Ministry of Interior provides an e-service that allows beneficiaries to submit a request for changing the profession. The steps to change the profession are as follows:

1. Request the GRO of the company: The first step is to request the General Relations Officer (GRO) of the company to initiate the profession change process. The GRO can do this by logging into the Ministry of Interior’s Absher portal.
2. Accept the request: Once the GRO submits the request, the employee must accept it on the Absher portal. The employee must ensure that their Absher account is active and linked to their Iqama.
3. Approval by the Ministry of Labor: After the employee accepts the request, the Ministry of Labor will review and approve it. The Ministry will check that there are no notes preventing the modification of the profession.
4. Print the residency: Once the Ministry approves the request, the employee must visit the passport office to print the residency or Iqama with the new profession.

It is important to note that some categories of professions are not eligible for a profession change. Expats who have domestic professions, such as house drivers, maids, farmers, gardeners, etc., cannot change their professions. Furthermore, they cannot apply for a family visa. It is recommended to check the eligibility criteria before initiating the profession change process.

To pay the iqama profession change fee, expatriates can use SNB or Al Ahli Bank through the Absher portal. They can also use iTunes to pay the fee. After making the payment, they should check available funds on Absher to ensure that the payment was successful.

Overall, the process of changing the profession on an Iqama in Saudi Arabia can be completed by following the above steps. It is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria are met and that the payment is made successfully.

Steps to Pay Iqama Profession Change Fee

If you want to change your profession on your Iqama in Saudi Arabia, you will need to pay a fee. Here are the steps to pay the Iqama profession change fee:

Online Banking

1. Log in to your online banking account.
2. Click on “Menu.”
3. Select “SADAD.”
4. Click on “Government Payments.”
5. Select “Alien Control” as the biller.
6. Choose “Change of Occupation” as the service.
7. Enter “Unregistered” as the beneficiary.
8. Input your Iqama number as the Iqama ID.
9. Pay the fee to change your Iqama occupation.
10. Check your available funds on Absher after making the payment.

Physical Bank Payment

1. Go to your nearest bank branch.
2. Request to pay the Iqama profession change fee.
3. Provide your Iqama number and the fee amount.
4. Pay the fee.
5. Check your available funds on Absher after making the payment.

It is important to note that the fee amount may vary depending on the profession you are changing to. Additionally, it is recommended to double-check the fee amount before making the payment to avoid any issues.

By following these steps, you can easily pay the Iqama profession change fee in Saudi Arabia.

Documents Required for Iqama Profession Change Fee Payment

To pay the iqama profession change fee in Saudi Arabia, certain documents are required. These documents include the following:

• A valid iqama
• A copy of the iqama
• A copy of the passport
• A copy of the new profession certificate
• A copy of the old profession certificate
• A copy of the company’s commercial registration (CR)
• A copy of the company’s Chamber of Commerce certificate

It’s important to note that the documents required may vary depending on the bank or payment method used. Therefore, it’s recommended to check with the bank or payment provider for the specific documents required.

Once the required documents are gathered, the fee can be paid through SADAD or through the SNB Bank or Al Ahli Bank. To pay through SADAD, follow these steps:

1. Log in to the SADAD website or mobile app
2. Click on “Government Payments”
3. Choose “Change of Occupation Iqama Number” service
4. Enter the required information, including the iqama number, the old and new profession codes, and the fee amount
5. Confirm the payment and wait for the confirmation message

To pay through the SNB Bank or Al Ahli Bank, follow these steps:

1. Visit the bank’s website or branch
2. Choose the “Government Payments” option
3. Select the “Change of Occupation Iqama Number” service
4. Enter the required information, including the iqama number, the old and new profession codes, and the fee amount
5. Confirm the payment and wait for the confirmation message

It’s important to keep the payment receipt as proof of payment, as it may be required for future reference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to paying the iqama profession change fee in Saudi Arabia, there are some common mistakes that expatriates should avoid. Here are some of them:

1. Not Checking Available Funds

One of the most common mistakes that expatriates make when paying the iqama profession change fee is not checking their available funds on Absher after making the payment. It is important to ensure that the payment has been processed successfully and that there are enough funds in the account to cover the fee.

2. Applying Without Meeting Requirements

Another mistake that expatriates make when applying for the iqama profession change is not meeting the requirements. Before applying, expatriates should ensure that they are available in Saudi Arabia and possess a specific profession-attested degree.

3. Using Incorrect Payment Method

Expatriates should also ensure that they are using the correct payment method when paying the iqama profession change fee. The fee can be paid through the Al Rajhi Bank or the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) website. Using an incorrect payment method can result in payment failure and delay in the iqama profession change process.

4. Not Accepting the Request

After the request for the change of iqama profession has been created, the employee must accept the request through the Qiwa account. Not accepting the request can result in the delay of the iqama profession change process.

By avoiding these common mistakes, expatriates can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process when paying the iqama profession change fee in Saudi Arabia.

Here, I added a YouTube video to learn how to change the IQAMA Profession;

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my profession on my Iqama?

The process of changing your profession on your Iqama can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. It depends on the efficiency of the government agencies involved in the process.

What documents are required to change my profession on my Iqama?

The documents required to change your profession on your Iqama may vary depending on your specific situation. However, in general, you will need a copy of your current Iqama, a copy of your passport, and any relevant educational or professional certificates.

Can I change my Iqama profession without a certificate?

It is possible to change your Iqama profession without a certificate, but it may be more difficult. The government may require additional documentation or proof of your skills and qualifications.

What is the process to change my profession on my Iqama?

The process to change your profession on your Iqama involves several steps. First, your employer must request the profession change through the General Directorate of Passports. Then, the Ministry of Labor will review the request and approve it if it meets the necessary criteria. Finally, you will need to pay the fee to change your profession and obtain a new Iqama.

Is it possible to check my Iqama profession online?

Yes, it is possible to check your Iqama profession online through the Absher portal. Simply log in to your account and navigate to the “Query Iqama Expiry Service” section.

How do I pay the fee to change my profession on my Iqama?

There are several ways to pay the fee to change your profession on your Iqama, including through the Absher portal, the Saudi Post Wasel service, and Al Rajhi Bank. The exact process may vary depending on the method you choose.

Conclusion

In conclusion, changing iqama profession in Saudi Arabia requires payment of a fee. The fee can be paid through SADAD using SNB Bank or Al Ahli Bank. Alternatively, the fee can be paid through online banking or ATM.

It is important to note that changing profession is permanent on the Iqama. Future changes to profession and Iqama renewals depend on the rules in effect at the time of renewal.

All inhabitants of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must change their iqama profession if they have shifted their occupation due to certain reasons. Expats are granted Saudi Iqama to confirm that they are legally residing and working in Saudi Arabia.

To change the profession, the employee must submit a request for changing the profession for an expatriate through the Ministry of Interior’s e-service. The system will check that there are no notes preventing the modifications of the profession. Then the employee must visit the passport office to print the residency or work permit.

Overall, the process of changing iqama profession in Saudi Arabia is straightforward, and the fee payment can be made through various channels. It is important to follow the rules and regulations set forth by the government to avoid any complications or legal issues.