The Iqama system is a crucial regulatory mechanism for managing the residency and employment of expatriates in the Kingdom. It is imperative for individuals and employers to strictly adhere to these rules, under penalty of severe sanctions. Here is a summary of the major violations and their corresponding penalties:
- Non-renewal of the Iqama Employers must pay double the Iqama fee if they do not renew the permit within 3 days of its expiration. Government institutions must submit renewal applications within 2 months of hiring.
- No evidence of Iqama's detention Residents unable to present their Iqama or the required information will be penalized with progressive fines of 1000 SAR to 3000 SAR depending on the repeat offense.
- Non-cancellation or renewal of visa Fines identical to those mentioned above are applied for delays concerning exit/entry or final exit visas.
- Unreported loss of passport or Iqama It is imperative to declare any loss within 24 hours, under penalty of increasing fines for each instance.
- Work of dependents Dependents working without authorization are liable to fines and, in case of recidivism, to the expulsion of the violating resident.
- Exceeding the length of stay The penalties include detention, fines and deportation, with particular attention paid to those who host undocumented visitors.
- Employment of an expatriate with a visitor visa This results in the expulsion of the expatriate and fines for the employer.
- Falsification of Iqama or visa Severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment and expulsion, are planned for expatriates and Saudi citizens involved in the falsification.
9-11. Various forms of document fraud The sanctions mentioned in point 8 also apply to these offences.
- Delays and irregularities in the processing of applications Service offices in violation receive warnings or license suspensions.
- Return of an expelled expatriate Fines and deportation are repeated with increased penalties for each repeat offense.
14-24. Various offences related to illegal work, transport and accommodation These offences result in a combination of fines, imprisonment and deportation, with specific penalties tailored to each case.
25-27. Illegal transportation and collusion in the entry or exit of expatriates Severe penalties are foreseen for these acts, including the confiscation of means of transport.
28-34. Illegal employment and transportation, false notifications The sanctions vary, including fines, expulsion and restrictions on the right to recruit expatriates.
These rules underline the importance of rigorous and compliant management of employment and residence formalities within the Kingdom, in order to avoid significant legal and financial consequences.
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