Saudi Arabia: Expats can now update passport details via Absher app

Dubai: Saudi Arabia has introduced a new service allowing employers to update the passport information of their expatriate workers through the Absher platform, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat). This digital service, aimed at improving efficiency and convenience, is available for a fee of SAR 69, inclusive of VAT.

The update service is available for expatriates aged 18 and above, following the renewal of their passports.

Employers can access it through the “My Services” section on Absher, under the “Passports” category, by navigating to “Resident Identity Services” and selecting the passport update option.

As part of the process, a clear photo of the new passport must be uploaded. The platform automatically reads the passport number and expiry date to streamline the update.

To complete the process, the expatriate or their employer must agree to a mandatory declaration confirming that the previous passport has not been lost, that there are no reports of ‘absence from work’ against the individual, and that the residency permit (Iqama) has no outstanding traffic violations.

Additionally, there must be no security restrictions on either the employer or the expatriate, and both parties must be alive and in good health.

The online update service may only be used once every five years per individual. If an expatriate has acquired an additional passport within that period, or if the previous passport has been lost, a personal visit to a Jawazat office is required.

Should someone attempt to use the service for a lost passport, they will be held legally accountable under the applicable rules and regulations.

Responsibility for the accuracy of the update lies entirely with the person completing the process, who will bear full legal liability in the event of any proven forgery or misuse.

Moreover, if the previous passport contains details of family members who have since obtained new passports, the online service becomes unavailable, necessitating an in-person visit to Jawazat for a proper update.

This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to digital transformation, enhancing access to essential government services and improving the experience for residents and employers alike.