Booking your Iqama biometrics appointment is one of the first and most important steps every expatriate must complete after arriving in Saudi Arabia. Without completing fingerprints and facial biometrics, your Iqama cannot be issued, renewed, or linked to major government services. This guide explains how to book the appointment, requirements, locations, eligibility, troubleshooting, and everything you must know in a clear 800-word format.
Overview Table: Iqama Biometrics Appointment Essentials
| Category | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Who Needs Biometrics | New expats, children above required age, those updating fingerprints | Mandatory for Iqama activation |
| Platform Used | Absher | Appointment booking only through Absher |
| Required Documents | Passport, Visa, Border Number, Appointment QR | Originals required |
| Biometrics Types Taken | Fingerprints & Facial Scan | Stored in MOI system |
| Completion Time | 5–10 minutes | Simple and fast |
| When Needed | Before Iqama issuance or renewal | Failure delays Iqama |
What Is Iqama Biometrics?
Iqama biometrics refers to the fingerprint and facial recognition data collected by Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports). These biometrics are linked to your residency file and required for all expatriates who wish to obtain or renew their Iqama in Saudi Arabia.
Biometrics ensure identity verification for government systems, security purposes, travel records, banking, SIM registration, and various digital services.
No biometrics means no Iqama.
Why Biometrics Are Mandatory Before Iqama Issuance
Saudi Arabia uses biometrics for several security and digital verification purposes. You must complete biometrics if:
- You are a new expatriate entering Saudi Arabia
- You recently transferred sponsorship and require re-verification
- Your fingerprints were rejected earlier
- You are renewing your Iqama and biometrics are missing or outdated
- Your child has reached the eligible age for fingerprinting
This requirement applies to all foreign residents to prevent identity fraud and ensure smooth access to government services.
How to Book an Iqama Biometrics Appointment (Step-by-Step)
Booking a biometrics appointment is done through Absher, the official government portal.
Step 1: Open Absher
Go to the Absher platform and log in using your username, Iqama number (if available), and password.
Step 2: Choose “Appointments”
From the main dashboard, select Appointments from the services menu.
Step 3: Select “Fingerprint Appointment”
Click on the Fingerprint option to open the Jawazat appointment booking page.
Step 4: Choose your region
Select your city or region where you want to complete the biometrics.
Step 5: Pick a Jawazat office and time slot
Absher will show available dates and time slots. Choose the one that suits your schedule.
Step 6: Confirm booking and download the appointment slip
A confirmation page will generate a QR code. Screenshot or print it because you must show it at the Jawazat office.
Required Documents for Biometrics Appointment
Make sure to bring:
- Original passport
- Visa page/entry stamp
- Border number
- Appointment confirmation slip (print or QR code)
- Iqama (if you are updating biometrics for renewal)
- For children: Birth certificate or passport
Missing documents may cause delays or rescheduling.
What Happens During the Appointment?
The biometrics process is fast and usually takes under 10 minutes.
You will go through the following steps:
- Registration at the counter
- Showing your passport and appointment slip
- Fingerprint scan on all fingers
- Facial recognition/photo capture
- Confirmation message from the system
After the procedure, your biometrics will be recorded instantly in the Ministry of Interior system.
Biometrics for Children: Age Requirement
Not all children need biometrics. Fingerprints are generally required when a child reaches the designated age set by Jawazat (commonly around 6 years old, but rules may vary based on updates).
Once children reach the required age, parents must book a separate appointment to update fingerprints for their dependents.
Common Reasons Biometrics Are Rejected
Sometimes biometrics fail and require re-scanning. The most common causes include:
- Poor fingerprint quality
- Chemical damage or injuries to fingers
- System mismatch with stored data
- Absher technical errors
- Fingerprints recorded before but not linked to Iqama
If this happens, Jawazat will instruct you to rebook another appointment.
Iqama Cannot Be Issued Without Biometrics
If biometrics are missing, your employer or sponsor will see an error during Iqama issuance or renewal. The system will not process the application until fingerprints are completed.
This affects:
- Residency issuance
- Medical insurance linking
- Bank account opening
- SIM card registration
- Driving license application
- Government service access
Biometrics are the foundation of your digital identity in Saudi Arabia.
Tips for a Smooth Appointment
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early
- Bring original documents (photocopies not accepted)
- Avoid applying creams or oils before fingerprinting
- Confirm your appointment time in Absher
- Ensure children are present for their appointment
- Use a working mobile number for communication
Choosing the Best Jawazat Center
You can choose from:
- Jawazat main offices
- Civil Affairs centers (for dependents)
- Service centers inside large cities
- Dedicated biometric centers at airports for new arrivals
City centers are usually busier, while suburban offices often have faster processing times.
Final Thoughts
Scheduling your Iqama biometrics appointment is one of the most important steps in your residency process. Without fingerprints and facial data, your Iqama cannot be issued or renewed, and essential services will remain inaccessible. Absher makes booking easy, and the process itself is quick, usually completed in minutes. Always bring the correct documents and complete biometrics early to avoid any delays.
Best One-Line FAQs
1. Can my Iqama be issued without biometrics?
No, your Iqama cannot be issued or renewed without completing biometrics.
2. How long does the biometrics appointment take?
Usually 5 to 10 minutes once your turn arrives.
3. Do children need biometrics?
Yes, once they reach the required minimum age set by Jawazat.