Saudi National ID-A Step Towards Vision 2030

To achieve the goals of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has also issued digital identity cards to its citizens and nationals. This Saudi National ID, also known as Iqama or Muqeem, is a vital identity document for people living in the Kingdom. It is also a proof of residency or National address and gives people access to several governmental and private services. Saudi Ministry of Interior issues this card to all males and females through the Civil Status Department. Saudi National ID card is also valid for travel to the member countries of the Gulf Co-operation Council.

Eligibility for National ID

The National ID card is issued to all male and female citizens of Saudi Arabia reaching the age of 15 years. However, it is optional for kids between the age group of 10-14 years. No one above the age of 15 years can reside in the country without having a Saudi Arabia ID Card because they can not open a bank account, get a driver’s license, get employment, or travel across the Kingdom. Therefore, it is mandatory for all males and females reaching the age of 15 years to get a Saudi Arabian resident identity card.

Validity of Saudi Arabia Identity Card

Saudi National ID Card is valid for different periods for individuals with different age groups. If the NID card holder is between the age group 15-30 years, the Saudi ID will be valid for 5 years. The validity of the resident identity in Saudi Arabia reaches 10 years for individuals between the age group 31-50 years. However, it remains valid for 20 years for all above 50 years of age. Remember that it is obligatory to carry your identity with you while traveling in the Kingdom.

Card Contents and Features

Like identity documents of other Gulf countries, the Saudi ID Card also contains personal information about the cardholder, like name, date of birth, and national address. It also has a personal photo of the citizen, their national number, and an expiry date. Remember to check the expiry date of this national document and initiate a timely renewal to avoid heavy fines. The main features of the NID card are:

• Identification Number: The first striking feature of this identity document is that it stores a 10-digit unique number issued by the Civil Status Department under the Ministry of Interior. It is the number that enables you to enjoy various governmental services like banking, education, healthcare, and many more. Although you can enjoy all services through this unique number, keep your ID Card with you as proof of who is using the National ID number.
• Hybrid Optical and IC Chip: Like all other cards, it features an electronic chip that stores all your data like name, date of birth, address, and photograph. It is machine-readable and authenticates users’ credentials while using various eServices.
• Smart Technologies: The Saudi National ID Card is a perfect blend of smart technologies that distinguish it from other contemporary cards. The unique pattern and design of digits, the blend of green and black colors, line drawings, and certain embedded security features make its falsification almost impossible.

How to Apply for A New National ID?

If you are a Saudi citizen and meet the criteria to obtain a National ID, you can apply for a new ID Card in a very simple and convenient way. The detailed process is as follows:

1. Download and install the Absher App from the Play Store or iOS store.
2. Go to Absher Login either on your devices or Absher Electronic Platform on a PC and register a new account. Remember, you need your Iqama or ID Number, your Saudi phone number, and an email address to register for a new Absher account.
3. Login to your Absher account and navigate to the Appointments section. Click on the Civil Status Icon on the list.
4. Now, fill out all the required data in the form that appears after clicking on the Civil Status Icon.
5. Select the “Issuing a new Status Card” transaction from the menu.
6. Determine the appropriate time and day for the applicant and choose the nearest branch.
7. Confirm reservation appointment and visit the branch on your specified date and time.
8. Submit all the required documents to apply for a new National ID that arrives within 7-10 days after the application submission.

National ID Renewal

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing digital transformation in every field of life as a result of its Vision 2030. Saudi citizens and residents can renew their National ID cards through self-servicing machines spread across the country. There is no need for the review of Civil Status authorities for this ID Card renewal service. The detailed process is as under:

• Go to your nearest self-service machine spread across the Kingdom.
• Insert your old National ID card into the designated place in the machine.
• Position yourself in front of the camera so that the device can take your photo.
• After the photo, you will have to place your fingers on the designated place for biometrics.
• Wait for a few minutes and you will receive your new National ID with a new expiry date.

Offline Application and Renewal of National ID

In certain cases, if you cannot apply for or renew my national address, you can visit MOI Civil Status service centers spread across the Kingdom. The detailed process for applying for a new ID and renewing your old ID is given as under:

• Visit your nearest service center and tell them whether you want to apply for a new National ID or renew your old ID. There are separate forms for applying for a new ID and renewal of your old one.
• Fill in the form you have taken from the service center.
• Paste your latest passport-sized photograph in the specified place on the form.
• Attach all the requisite documents with the form and submit. Remember to take your passport, iqama, ID Card Number, and all other documents.
• Pay the government fee in a bank and attach the fee payment receipt with the form.
• Submit the form along with documents and take a receipt with a tracking ID on it.
• You can track the progress of your application and visit the service center for the collection of your ID card after it is printed.
• You can also opt for a home delivery service by paying delivery charges for the courier.

Saudi Arabia Identity Card Fee

Unlike other Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia does not charge a fee for the issuance and renewal of a Saudi National ID. However, you will be subjected to a fine of SAR 100 if you fail to renew your ID card timely. The grace period for renewal of the expired NID is 180 days, after which the individuals have to pay a fine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)