Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its leadership in digital governance with the introduction of a new Absher platform service “Change Resident ID Photo.”
This update gives residents the flexibility to update their Resident ID (Iqama) photo entirely online, marking another major stride in the Kingdom’s digital transformation efforts.
A Smarter Way to Update Your Iqama
Previously, residents could only change their Iqama photo once every ten years, and it required a manual visit to the Jawazat (Passport Office).
Now, the entire process can be completed digitally through Absher, with verification done securely via the Nafath app. Once submitted, your new photo is reviewed and approved electronically, no waiting in queues or manual paperwork required.
This marks another milestone in Saudi Arabia’s goal to enhance convenience and efficiency for both citizens and residents through advanced e-government systems.
Eligibility and Service Conditions
To access this service, residents must:
Be present in Saudi Arabia.
Not be registered as “absent from work.”
Have no lost Resident ID report or active final exit visa.
Be 18 years or older.
Pay the required government fees.
Verify their request through Nafath.
Note: The Resident ID photo can only be changed once per calendar year.
A Step Toward Smarter Public Services
The new feature aligns with the Vision 2030 digital agenda, aimed at making Saudi Arabia one of the most advanced digital economies in the world.
Absher has already transformed everyday life for residents — from traffic services and passport renewals to visa applications and now digital ID photo updates. Each new feature removes another layer of paperwork and in-person dependency, helping create a fully connected, paperless government ecosystem.
How We Support You
Navigating new digital services, residency procedures, and visa updates can sometimes feel complex — especially for corporate clients or residents managing multiple applications.
Northman and Sterling provide end-to-end support for Saudi visa applications, Absher processes, and residency services. Our local team in Riyadh works closely with government systems to ensure accurate submissions, faster approvals, and full compliance with Saudi regulations.
A Digital Future, One Step at a Time
The “Change Resident ID Photo” service may seem like a small feature, but it reflects a much larger shift, one where Saudi Arabia continues to redefine how residents and businesses interact with public services.
Faster, simpler, and entirely digital, this is the new standard for governance in the Kingdom.
