A border number is the identification number Jawazat gives to a person who enters Saudi Arabia on a new visa. It is written on a visit visa, and if you do not have it you can look it up on Absher without an account using your visa number and issue date.
Where to find it
- Check your visa. For a visit visa, immigration officers write the number by hand on the visa.
- Check your entry documents. Employers and sponsors often hold a copy of the entry record.
- Use the Absher lookup. If it is not on your visa, use the steps below.
Look it up on Absher
- Open Absher. Go to the Absher website and choose Individual.
- Choose the border number query. Open the public service called Query for Border Number.
- Select your category. Choose GCC citizen or non-GCC citizen.
- Enter your details. Non-GCC visitors enter the visa number and the visa issue date. GCC citizens enter a national ID or passport number.
- Complete the captcha and submit. The system shows your full name and border number.
Use the official site only
Only enter your visa details on the official Absher site. Do not give your passport or visa details to sites that offer to find the number for you.
Border number or Iqama number
| Border number | Iqama number | |
|---|---|---|
| When issued | On entry with a new visa | After residence is issued |
| Used for | Visitor services, traffic fine checks, early records | Absher, Muqeem, Qiwa, fees |
| Guide | This page | Iqama number |
Questions
What is a border number?
A unique number issued by Jawazat to people who enter Saudi Arabia on a new visa. It identifies you before an Iqama exists.
Where do I find it?
On a visit visa it is handwritten by immigration officers. If it is not on your visa, you can look it up on the Absher public service with no account.
What does it start with?
The Ministry of Interior has said the handwritten number on a visit visa starts with 3.
Is it the same as my Iqama number?
No. The border number is given on entry. After your Iqama is issued, use the Iqama number for Absher and payments.
Sources
- Absher (Ministry of Interior)
- Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports)
- Gulf News: what is a Saudi border number
Iqama Guide is an independent information site. It is not a government website and does not process Iqama, visa or payment requests. Always confirm amounts and rules on Absher, Muqeem or the official authority before acting.