Updating Your Iqama Photo? Make Sure You Follow These Rules
Absher explains the photo requirements residents must follow when updating their Iqama photo, including lighting, background and biometric verification.
Saudi Arabia’s Absher platform has outlined the personal photo requirements residents must follow when updating the photo on their Resident ID (Iqama).
The requirements are intended to ensure that the submitted photo can be accepted and used for identity verification.
Residents should make sure the photo is free of shadows and avoid strong lighting that could affect the clarity of the image. Red-eye caused by light reflection should also be avoided.
The person must look directly at the camera, with the face clearly visible and the head kept straight without tilting.
Residents should not wear glasses or colored contact lenses when taking the photo. They should also keep their eyes open and avoid opening their mouth or showing their teeth.
Distinctive facial features, such as marks on the face, should not be covered or obscured.
For men, Absher states that a head covering or cap should not be worn when taking the photo.
For women taking the photo without a hijab, the hair should not cover any facial features. Absher’s requirements also state that makeup should be avoided.
What Happens After Taking the Photo?
After capturing the photo through the Absher app and confirming the request, the resident must proceed to the Nafath app.
Another photo must then be taken through Nafath to complete biometric verification. According to Absher, this step must be completed within three minutes.
The background must be white, and all the specified photo requirements must be met.
Absher also notes that terms and conditions apply and that the Resident ID photo update service is subject to applicable fees.
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