How to Use Absher: Services Every Resident Needs

Absher is the Ministry of Interior's main e-services platform for residents, and for anyone living in Saudi Arabia it quickly becomes the single most useful app on your phone. From renewing your iqama to booking an exit/re-entry visa, updating your details, or managing your family's residency, almost every interaction you'll have with the government runs through it. Registering and using the portal and app are free — you only pay the standard government and processing fees for specific services. This Saudi Living guide walks you through how to get started and use the services that matter most.

Creating and activating your Absher account

You can register through the official Absher website or the app. Choose "New User" and enter your national ID or iqama number along with your mobile number, email, a username, and a password. You'll then confirm your details through an SMS code. Before you can fully log in, your account must be activated. Activation is available through:

• Linked banks that offer Absher activation through their online services
• Self-service kiosks
• ATMs of participating banks
• Passport (Jawazat) offices in person

Once activated, you'll have full access to your dashboard. Keep your registered mobile number current, since most services rely on SMS verification.

The core services you'll use most

Absher groups its services into a few main categories. The ones residents rely on constantly include:

• Passports: iqama issuance and renewal, exit/re-entry visas, and final exit.
• Traffic: driver's license services and vehicle-related transactions.
• Job services and other Ministry of Interior functions such as filing reports and updating your records.

Because everything is linked to your verified identity, you can complete most of these steps without visiting an office.

Your digital iqama

One of the most practical features is the digital iqama available inside Absher. In 2026 it is accepted as valid proof of residency for most everyday situations — hotel check-ins, police or traffic stops, hospital admissions, and many government counters. Carrying the physical card is no longer strictly required in these contexts. That said, it's still wise to keep the plastic card with you when travelling or for any situation where a physical document may be requested.

Renewing your iqama and understanding the fees

Iqama renewal is one of the most common Absher tasks. Fees are paid through SADAD, and the amount depends on your category. Typical 2026 government residency fees (excluding levies) include:

• Company and establishment employees: around SAR 650 per year
• Professional individual residency renewal: SAR 600
• Domestic worker, farmer, or herder residency: SAR 600
• Companion residency after age 18: SAR 500

When issuing or renewing through Absher Business, a processing service fee of SAR 51.75 applies on top of the base government fee. This processing fee is non-refundable and separate from the annual residency fee and any applicable levies. Dependent or family iqamas typically use a similar base residency fee (around SAR 650 per year), plus a dependent fee levy commonly cited at around SAR 400 and the processing fee where applicable.

Because fee categories and levies can change, always confirm the exact amount shown for your case on Absher before paying.

Exit and re-entry visas

If you plan to travel and return to the Kingdom, you'll need an exit/re-entry visa, which you can issue directly through Absher. There are two types:

• Single-entry: a base government fee of SAR 200 for up to two months, plus SAR 100 for each additional month if you extend while inside Saudi Arabia. If the extension is done while the holder is abroad, the extra monthly fee doubles to SAR 200.
• Multiple-entry: a base government fee of SAR 500 for up to three months, plus SAR 200 for extensions.

Always double-check the validity dates before you travel, and make sure your iqama is valid for the full period of your trip.

Tips for a smooth experience

• Keep your mobile number and email up to date to avoid missing verification codes.
• Ensure your SADAD payments clear before starting a service that requires the fee to be paid.
• Use the digital iqama for everyday verification, but confirm requirements before travel.
• When a fee or process looks unfamiliar, rely on the figures displayed in your Absher account, as they reflect your specific category.

Mastering Absher saves you countless trips and long queues. Once your account is set up and verified, most of your residency admin becomes a few taps away.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving