What size photo is required for Iqama?

Iqama (Saudi resident ID) photos must be 40mm wide × 60mm tall. This is the same size used for Saudi passports and visas. For Muqeem portal uploads, photos should be at least 472 × 708 pixels.

What is the background color for Iqama photo?

Iqama photos require a plain white background. The background must be uniform without patterns, textures, or shadows. Cream or off-white backgrounds are not accepted.

How do I update my Iqama photo?

To update your Iqama photo, your employer/sponsor must submit the new photo through the Muqeem portal. Alternatively, visit a Jawazat office with new photos for in-person update. Photo update is required when renewing Iqama or if appearance has significantly changed.

Can women wear hijab in Iqama photos?

Yes, hijab is allowed in Iqama photos. The face from chin to forehead must be clearly visible. The hijab should not cast shadows on the face. Niqab or face covering is not permitted.

🪪 MOI Compliant

Iqama Photo Requirements

صورة الإقامة السعودية

Create compliant photos for Saudi resident ID (Iqama) card. Required for new issuance, renewal, and replacement. Size: 40×60mm.

Create Iqama Photo →

👤

40 × 60 mm

Iqama

What is Iqama?

Iqama (إقامة) is the Saudi residence permit/ID card issued to all foreign residents in Saudi Arabia. It serves as your primary identification document and is required for:

✓ Opening bank accounts
✓ Getting a driving license
✓ Signing rental agreements
✓ Healthcare registration
✓ Government services access

Iqama Categories

Work Iqama 1-2 years

Dependent Iqama Linked to sponsor

Student Iqama Study duration

Premium Iqama 1-5 years

Iqama Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	40 × 60 mm
In Inches	1.57 × 2.36 inches
Digital (Muqeem)	472 × 708 px
File Format	JPEG
Max File Size	2 MB

Photo Standards

✓ Plain white background
✓ Recent photo (within 3 months)
✓ Neutral expression
✓ Face centered, looking at camera
✓ Hijab allowed for women
✗ No glasses
✗ No head covering for men

Iqama Services

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New Iqama

Employer applies through Muqeem portal with your photo and documents.

Sponsor initiates

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Iqama Renewal

Renew before expiry through Absher or Muqeem. New photo may be required.

Before expiry

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Photo Update

Update photo if appearance has changed significantly. Visit Jawazat office.

If needed

Muqeem Portal Photo Upload

Digital Photo Requirements

When your employer uploads your photo through the Muqeem portal (muqeem.sa), ensure the photo meets these digital specifications:

✓ JPEG format (.jpg)
✓ Minimum 472 × 708 pixels
✓ File size under 2MB
✓ High quality, not blurry

Pro Tips

• Provide your employer with a high-resolution digital photo
• Keep printed copies (2-4) for Jawazat visits
• Use the same photo for Iqama and visa if recent
• Update photo if you've changed appearance significantly

Iqama Photo FAQ

How much does Iqama renewal cost? ▼

Iqama renewal fees (2024-2025):

Work Iqama: SAR 650/year (~$173 USD)
Dependent Iqama: SAR 500/year (~$133 USD)
Premium Iqama: SAR 4,000/year (~$1,066 USD)

Late renewal incurs additional fines (SAR 500-1000).

How many photos needed for Iqama? ▼

For digital applications (Muqeem): One high-quality digital photo.

For Jawazat office visits: 2-4 printed photos (40×60mm). Always keep extra copies for unexpected requirements.

Can I take my own Iqama photo? ▼

Yes! Take your own photo at home and use VisaPicPro to:

Resize to exact 40×60mm Saudi specifications
Replace background with pure white
Optimize for Muqeem digital upload
Create printable version for Jawazat

What happens if Iqama photo is rejected? ▼

Common rejection reasons:

Wrong size: Must be 40×60mm exactly
Background: Must be pure white
Glasses: Remove all eyewear
Quality: Photo blurry or pixelated

Your employer will need to resubmit with a compliant photo.