Exchanging the Muqeem card with the iqama is not required for those who still have valid iqamas, and is only needed for those whose iqamas have expired and have to be renewed, said the General Directorate of Passports.

The directorate is ready to launch the Muqeem card from the beginning of Muharram 1437H.

Workers’ iqamas will be sent by Saudi Post to the directorate to change them to the Muqeem cards. The Muqeem cards will be returned to sponsors by post.

The directorate is prepared to start this process in coordination with the National Information Center and the Saudi Post, said Maj. Gen. Suleiman Al-Yahya, director general of passports.

The launch of the Muqeem card comes after completion of all necessary requirements, which will enable security personnel in the field, government departments and private establishments to identify the date of its expiry.

All companies and institutions are required to register with the Saudi mail Wasil to provide documents to them by 1/11/1436H, while individuals (citizens and residents) are required to register as of the beginning of the month of Muharram 1437H.

The Muqeem card is unique in that it is valid for five years and aims to provide the identity of the foreign national in the field, as well as their name, number, birth date, profession, eligibility to work, nationality, work permit number (if applicable), religion and employer.

There have also been changes to the appearance of the card, as it is now called a Muqeem card. The card can be issued electronically for the first time via the Abshir or Muqeem e-services.

The card is only an identification card for the sponsor or profession, and is to be renewed electronically every year by the employer.

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