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New Resident Online Setup Checklist for Saudi Arabia

If you've just arrived in Saudi Arabia, there are several online accounts and registrations you need to set up in the right order. This checklist covers everything — from Absher to your National Address — so you don't miss anything important.

Who Is This For?

Expats who have recently arrived in Saudi Arabia on a work or residency visa and need to get their administrative setup done.

What You Need Before Starting

  • ✓A valid Iqama (your sponsor should provide this within 90 days of arrival)
  • ✓A Saudi SIM card registered under your Iqama
  • ✓Your passport

Step-by-Step Process

  1. 1Get a Saudi SIM card — visit any STC, Mobily, or Zain outlet with your Iqama and passport. A registered Saudi number is required for almost everything.
  2. 2Create your Absher account — this is your gateway to all government services. Use your Iqama number and new Saudi mobile number.
  3. 3Register for Nafath (nafath.sa) — takes 2 minutes once you have Absher. Nafath is the digital identity used to access Balady, Qiwa, GOSI, and most other government portals.
  4. 4Register your National Address — required for Iqama renewal, license delivery, and mail. Do this through the SPL portal at splonline.com.sa.
  5. 5Verify your health insurance — confirm with your employer's HR that your insurance is active on the CCHI portal at cchi.gov.sa.
  6. 6Check your Iqama expiry date — log in to Absher and note when your Iqama is due for renewal. Set a reminder 2 months in advance.
  7. 7Set up a Saudi bank account — most employers pay salaries to local accounts. See which bank is best for expats before you choose.
  8. 8Verify your GOSI registration — your employer must register you within 30 days of starting work. Check at gosi.gov.sa that your registration is active and your salary details are correct.
  9. 9Get your mada debit card — this is your main payment tool for government services and most online transactions.
  10. 10Download key apps — Absher, Tawakkalna, Muroor (traffic), and your bank's app are essential.
  11. 11Check for any traffic violations — if you drive, search your license on najm.sa to confirm you have no outstanding fines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✗Getting a SIM before your Iqama is issued — the SIM cannot be registered to you without an Iqama
  • ✗Skipping the National Address step — it blocks Iqama renewal and physical license delivery
  • ✗Opening a bank account before getting your Iqama — most banks require it
  • ✗Not checking your health insurance status — it is required for Iqama renewal
  • ✗Waiting until the last minute for Iqama renewal — start 2 months early

Timing & Fees

Most registrations are free. Bank account setup is free. SIM card costs SAR 10–50 depending on the plan. Allow 1–2 weeks to complete all steps comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing I should do after arriving?

Get a Saudi SIM card registered under your Iqama. Without it, you cannot receive OTPs for Absher, banking, or any online government service.

How long do I have before I need to complete all this?

There is no single deadline, but your Iqama expiry date is the most critical one to track. Everything else should be set up within your first 2–4 weeks.

Do I need to do all of this myself, or will my employer help?

Employers handle Iqama issuance and health insurance. Everything else — Absher, National Address, bank account, SIM — is your personal responsibility.