What is the dependent fee in Saudi Arabia?
The dependent fee is a monthly charge on each family member sponsored by an expatriate worker in Saudi Arabia. It applies to dependents on your iqama, such as your wife, children and sponsored parents, and must be paid in advance for the period of the iqama renewal. Since July 2020 it has been SAR 400 per dependent per month, which is SAR 4,800 a year for each person, and reports in 2026 show no change to that rate.
How the dependent fee is calculated
Dependent fee = SAR 400 × number of dependents × months of renewal
| Dependents | 3 months | 6 months | 12 months |
|---|
The fee is charged for the months you renew, so you can renew for 3, 6 or 9 months if paying a full year at once is difficult. The total over a year stays the same.
Other iqama costs to plan for
| Cost | Amount | Usually paid by |
|---|---|---|
| Dependent fee | SAR 400 / dependent / month | Employee (the sponsor) |
| Iqama renewal fee | SAR 650 / year (SAR 163, 325 or 488 for 3, 6 or 9 months) | Varies by contract |
| Expat work permit levy | SAR 700 or 800 / month | Employer, in most cases |
| Work permit licence fee | SAR 100 / year | Employer |
Your contract decides who pays the iqama and work permit costs. The dependent fee is generally the sponsor's own cost unless your employer agrees to cover it.
How to pay the dependent fee
- Log in to Absher and check the fees due for your dependents, or ask your company's government relations officer.
- Open your bank app and go to SADAD or Government Payments, then choose the Passports (Jawazat) section.
- Select the dependent fee service, enter your iqama number, and choose the number of months.
- Pay and then renew the iqamas through Absher or your employer once the payment shows as received.
Official information is available on the Absher platform of the Ministry of Interior.
Who is exempt?
- Saudi citizens and their families.
- GCC nationals.
- Some categories, such as the spouse or children of a Saudi citizen, who are treated differently.
- Holders of Premium Residency, which has its own fee structure.
If you think an exemption applies, confirm it in Absher before deciding not to pay.
Budgeting tip
For a family of four dependents, the fee is SAR 19,200 a year. Many expats set aside SAR 1,600 a month into a separate account so the renewal does not come as a lump sum. If you are comparing a job offer, add the dependent fee to the cost of living. Our GOSI calculator shows the other deduction that can affect take-home pay.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the dependent fee in Saudi Arabia in 2026?
SAR 400 per dependent per month, which is SAR 4,800 per dependent per year.
Do I pay the dependent fee for a newborn baby?
Once a child is added as your dependent, the monthly fee applies. Check the fees shown in Absher after registration.
Can I pay the dependent fee for 3 months only?
Yes. You can renew for 3, 6, 9 or 12 months and pay the fee for that period.
Does my employer pay the dependent fee?
Usually not, unless your contract says so. It is generally paid by the sponsoring employee.
What happens if I do not pay?
Your dependents' iqamas cannot be renewed, which can block exit/re-entry visas and other services. Pay before the iqama expires.