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Resident of Bahrain - Saudi Iqama Application through UAE

Faisal Habib

I am writing to seek clarification regarding the process for obtaining my Saudi Iqama (residence visa). I have encountered challenges during my recent application, and I appreciate your assistance in resolving this matter.


Last week, I submitted my Iqama application through VFS, but unfortunately, it was rejected by the Saudi embassy in Bahrain. The reason cited was that my ACCA membership did not have the Saudi Culture stamp from the UK. However, prior to submitting my application, I was informed by Saudi MOFA that an apostille would suffice, and I understood that the Saudi culture office in the UK no longer stamps educational degrees due to the acceptance of apostilles.


Despite this information, my application faced rejection in Bahrain. I have consulted local agents, who confirmed that an apostille should indeed be sufficient for the Iqama process. However, the Saudi embassy’s recent rejections remain unexplained.


As an Indian passport holder, I am considering alternative options. One suggestion I received is to return to India and restart the process from there. However, I have relatives in the UAE, and I wonder if it is possible to process my Iqama from there. I currently hold a Bahrain residence permit as well.


Could you kindly advise on the feasibility of processing my Iqama from the UAE? If so, what steps should I follow, and are there any specific requirements I need to be aware of?

See also

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XTang

It's not an Iqama.  It's a work visa which will be converted to Iqama when you arrive in Saudi.  Secondly, it is better to give a bachelor degree as Saudi Embassy in some countries is totally inflexible without a culture stamp on the degree.   You can only apply from your home country or country of legal residence.  You cannot go on a visit visa to a third country and apply from there.