Iqama
الإقامة
📖 Definition
Iqama is the Saudi residence permit issued to foreign workers. The employer (sponsor) is responsible for iqama issuance, renewal, and associated fees. Iqama number is required for GOSI registration and payroll processing.
In everyday Saudi accounting work, iqama matters because it affects invoice accuracy, financial reporting, tax filing, or ZATCA compliance depending on the transaction.
📖 التعريف بالعربية
الإقامة هي تصريح الإقامة السعودي الصادر للعمال الأجانب. يتحمل صاحب العمل (الكفيل) مسؤولية إصدار الإقامة وتجديدها والرسوم المرتبطة بها. رقم الإقامة مطلوب لتسجيل التأمينات الاجتماعية ومعالجة الرواتب.
💡 Example
Expat employee's iqama number is used for GOSI registration, bank account opening, and government service access.
رقم إقامة الموظف المغترب يُستخدم لتسجيل التأمينات وفتح الحسابات البنكية والوصول للخدمات الحكومية.
When this term matters
Invoices
Use the correct term and value before issuing ZATCA-compliant invoices or credit notes.
Reports
Map it to the right account, tax field, or compliance report to avoid reconciliation gaps.
Compliance
Keep the Arabic and English meaning aligned when working with auditors, ZATCA, or customers.
Automate Iqama with Qeemah
Qeemah accounting software handles iqama automatically, ensuring ZATCA compliance and reducing manual work.