A Complete Guide to Dependent Fees for Expatriate Families in Saudi Arabia

Under their Iqama, or residency status, expats in Saudi Arabia must pay dependant fees for family members they sponsor.

Among these dependents are spouses, kids, and even parents, The Saudi government instituted these taxes as part of its effort to boost income and support workforce localization by means of increased job prospects for Saudi citizens.

Saudi Arabia’s Dependent Fees

Under their sponsorship, expatriates in Saudi Arabia must pay monthly charges known as dependent fees for every dependent. The amount is automatically linked to the Iqama renewal process, hence expatriates have to pay any outstanding dependent fees in order to effectively renew their Iqama.

The monthly dependent fee starting in 2024 is SAR 400 per family member, almost equal to USD 108. To cover all dependents, an expatriate sponsoring a spouse and two children, for instance, would have to pay SAR 1,200 (approximately USD 324) monthly, Since these fees build yearly, expatriates must budget carefully to prevent any financial surprises when it comes time to renew the Iqama.

Aimed at diversifying Saudi Arabia's revenue sources and lowering dependency on oil exports, the dependent fees are part of Vision 2030 program of the nation. These fees help the government to promote workforce localization and thereby increase the employment rate among Saudi nationals. Apart from generating government income, the dependent fees affect the number of expatriate families moving to Saudi Arabia since some of them take other choices under consideration due to the additional financial burden.

Paying the Dependent Fees

The government-run SADAD payment system simplifies dependent fee payment in Saudi Arabia. Accessible by internet banking, smartphone apps, or physical payment kiosks scattered over the nation, the SADAD system facilitates several forms of government payments, Here's a detailed guide on paying dependent fees:

• Use Online Banking or log in using Go to a SADKiosk: Starting the transaction, visit a nearby SADAD payment kiosk or access the online portal of your bank.
• Choose government payments. Choose the "Government Payments" part of the payment choices to pay different government fees.
• Select the Dependent Fee Category: Choose "Dependent Fees" under the government payments category and input your Iqama's data.
• Verify and Finish Payment: Based on the number of dependents under your sponsorship, verify the due money; then, go on with the process.
• Using online banking or mobile banking apps provides the convenience of paying dependent fees from anywhere, whereas SADAD kiosks serve as a practical alternative for those who prefer in-person transactions.

Timely payment

Expatriates have to pay dependent fees on time since the renewal of the Iqama depends on the payment of all outstanding debts. If the fees are not paid, expatriates may face obstacles in renewing their Iqama, which could impact their legal residency status, Additionally late payments might lead to penalties or fines, further complicating the renewal process, Therefore it is wise to make payments promptly and keep track of fee deadlines.

Dependent fees in Saudi Arabia are a mandatory expense for expatriates sponsoring family members, At SAR 400 per dependent per month, these fees are significant, making it crucial for expatriates to include them in their financial planning, The payment process, facilitated through the SADAD system, allows for convenient options, including online banking and payment kiosks. 

Timely payment of these fees is necessary not only for the smooth renewal of the Iqama but also to avoid legal complications and penalties, With clear budgeting and planning, expatriates can manage these fees effectively while ensuring their family members maintain lawful residency in Saudi Arabia.