The 90-day timeline
When you enter Saudi Arabia on an employment visa, you don't get your Iqama at the airport. Instead, your employer has a window — generally around 90 days from your arrival — to convert your entry visa into a residency permit. During this period your stamped visa is what keeps you legal, so keep your passport and entry stamp safe.
The process is employer-led. Your sponsor handles the application and the fees; your job is to complete the medical test, provide documents, and give your biometrics when asked. Staying responsive during these weeks is the best thing you can do to avoid delays.
The steps, in order
- Arrive on your work visa. Keep your passport, entry stamp and visa copy secure.
- Complete the medical fitness test at an approved centre (more below).
- Provide your documents to your employer's HR or government relations officer.
- Give your biometrics — fingerprints and a photo — when scheduled.
- Employer submits and pays for the Iqama through the official channels.
- Collect your Iqama (or its digital version) once issued, and check the details are correct.
The medical fitness test
A medical examination at an approved centre is a standard requirement before your Iqama is issued. It typically includes basic checks and screening for certain conditions. Your employer usually directs you to an accredited centre, and the result feeds into the Iqama application. It's a routine step for the vast majority of new arrivals, so there's no need to worry — just attend when scheduled and bring the documents you're asked for.
Documents you'll typically need
| Document | Why it's needed |
|---|---|
| Passport + entry visa | Identity and legal-entry proof |
| Passport-size photos | For the Iqama record |
| Medical test result | Fitness clearance |
| Employment contract | Confirms your sponsored role |
| Educational/professional certificates | Sometimes required for the profession on record |
What to do while you wait
- Keep documents safe. Your passport and entry stamp are your proof of legal stay until the Iqama arrives.
- Stay reachable. Biometrics appointments and document requests can come at short notice.
- Don't plan travel yet. Leaving the country before your Iqama is issued is complicated — talk to your employer first.
- Note your future expiry. Once issued, learn how to check your Iqama expiry so you never miss a renewal.