Last updated: September 2026 – realistic timelines, fingerprint step and Absher menu path updated.
Have you made any mistakes in your Iqama in Saudi Arabia? A little mishap in such detail can cause severe problems in legal records, employment, and government services. This issue is uncovered by numerous expatriates when they are seeking visas, banking, or other official approvals, and they fail to comprehend how to correct it.
Here, you get a full instruction on how to change nationality on an iqama in Saudi Arabia. Out of the necessary documents and Jawazat procedures for booking an appointment via Absher, all are clear.
What is Nationality on Iqama?
The Iqama is your official permission to live in Saudi Arabia, which is issued by the General Directorate of Passports. It includes vital personal details that include:
- Name
- Iqama number
- Employer details
- Profession
- Nationality
Nationality is printed on the front of your Iqama and also shows in your Absher profile. This is an essential aspect since lots of users are ignorant of where to check it.
Required Documents
If you’ve taken a new citizenship and given up your old one, bring proof of that too – a letter from your former embassy or a copy of the renunciation certificate. Expats who’ve been through the process say Jawazat often asks for it. Keep photocopies of everything, including both passports’ data pages; it can save you a second trip.
You should make all the preparations in advance when you apply. Lost papers may slow down your application, or your application may be rejected.
Mandatory Documents:
- Fingerprints report from the police station
- New Passport
- Old Passport
- Original Iqama
- Jawazat Form (filled correctly)
These papers confirm who you are as well as to assure authenticity of your request.
Step-by-Step Process to Change Nationality on Iqama
This should be the most significant part. Take all the steps in turn.
Step 1: Verify Your Information
Check your Iqama and confirm:
- Nationality (9th line)
- Passport details
- Any mismatch
Ensure that your new passport is of the right nationality.
Step 2: Inform Your Sponsor (Kafeel)
Your employer or sponsor is also important to you in Saudi Arabia.
You must:
- Make them aware of the problem.
- Ask if they need to provide a letter
- Request them to approve your request.
In the absence of the participation of the sponsor, your request might not get any action.
Step 3: Book Jawazat Appointment
You have to make an appointment with Absher.
How to book
- Log in to Absher
- Open My Services, then Appointments
- Select Jawazat
- Select the branch name.
- Choose one day and time to an appointment.
Step 4: Visit the Jawazat Office on Time
Date of appointment:
- Arrive early
- Carry all original documents
- Dress appropriately
At the office of the General Directorate of Passports, Saudi Arabia, you will:
- Submit your documents
- Explain your scenario clearly
- Justify the change
Be open and transparent. This enhances the chances of approvals.
Step 5: Submit Jawazat Form
Complete the official Jawazat form.
Include:
- Personal details
- Iqama number
- Correct nationality
- Reason for change
Step 6: Fingerprint Verification
Jawazat usually gives you a letter to take to the police station, where your fingerprints are taken for a report:
- Police station report
This guarantees identity check.
Step 7: Wait for Approval
After submission:
- Authorities review your case
- Cross-check documents
- Approve or reject the request
Processing Time:
- Plan for several months – fingerprint and security checks are slow, and expats often report waiting three to six months.
Common Reasons for Nationality Correction
Knowing the cause is good to increase your chances of approval.
1. Typing or System Error
In some cases, in the application, nationality may be typed incorrectly.
2. Passport Update
In case you renew or switch your passport and nationality will be displayed differently.
3. Embassy Correction
You may have the status of your nationality updated by your embassy.
4. Dual Nationality Issues
There are those who are of many nationalities, which confuses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid being rejected, avoid these errors:
Incomplete Documents
You can delay your case by one or two documents.
Not Informing Sponsor
Your request can be turned down immediately.
Wrong Form Filling
Inaccurate information is problematic.
Late Appointment Arrival
You are likely to lose your slot.
Can You Change Nationality on Iqama Online?
No.
You can only:
- Make a booking through Absher.
The real exercise should be in-person at Jawazat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What to do to identify my nationality on the Iqama?
Look at the nationality field on your Iqama, or check your profile in Absher.
Is sponsor approval required?
It isn’t always formally required, but keep your employer in the loop and ask whether they need to sign anything.
How long does it take?
Usually several months, because of the fingerprint and security checks. Ask Jawazat for an estimate for your case.
Can nationality be changed without going to Jawazat?
No, it must be a physical visit.
But what about other nationalities of the passport?
You are to renew your Iqama, so it will reflect your passport.
Read Also: Iqama Renewal Fee for 1 Year in Saudi Arabia (2026)
You’ll book the visit through Absher – our guide on booking a Jawazat appointment walks through it. Afterwards, check your Iqama details online to confirm the change, and see changing religion on an Iqama if you need other personal details updated.
Final Thoughts
It is not so difficult to change nationality on your Iqama in Saudi Arabia; however, it is to be done accurately and with correct documents and under the official procedures. The majority of issues arise due to a lack of following the steps or a poor understanding of the process.
With this guide, with properly prepared documents and organization with your sponsor, you have high chances of being successful.
