Iqama Red Green Status 2026: Check Nitaqat Status Online
If you search for iqama red green, you usually want to know your employer’s Nitaqat classification. Red indicates a weaker localization position, while green indicates a qualifying range. Nitaqat classifies establishments based on Saudi workforce localization. You can check employee information through the official HRSD inquiry using your Iqama, border, or passport details.
Many expatriates call this their Iqama red green status. However, the physical Iqama card does not become red or green. The status relates to your employer or establishment and its position under Saudi labor localization rules. Nitaqat is Saudi Arabia’s system for classifying establishments by their localization performance. The current HRSD calculator uses factors such as the establishment’s activity, workforce size, and Saudization rate.
A red classification signals a weaker localization position. A green classification represents a qualifying Nitaqat range. Your employer’s classification can affect access to certain labor services. You can check your employee information through the HRSD Non-Saudi Employee Inquiry. The service supports searches using an Iqama number, border number, or passport number with nationality.
For employer-level information, HRSD also provides an Establishment Nitaqat Inquiry. This guide explains what iqama red green means, how to check the status, and why Nitaqat matters for expatriate employees.
What Does Iqama Red Green Mean?
Iqama red green usually refers to an employer’s Nitaqat classification in Saudi Arabia. Nitaqat measures an establishment’s localization performance. The classification can affect some labor services available to the establishment. It does not mean that the physical Iqama card has a red or green color.
What does red status mean?
A red Nitaqat status indicates that an establishment falls within the red range under the applicable Nitaqat rules.
The classification reflects the establishment’s localization position. It considers factors such as its Saudi workforce and business activity.
A red classification can limit access to some establishment services. The exact effect depends on the current HRSD and Qiwa rules.
Employees should avoid relying on old claims about red status. Saudi labor rules can change with new localization decisions.
HRSD currently publishes separate information for occupational localization. Its inquiry system also identifies red professional groups where services have stopped due to unmet localization requirements.
If your employer shows a red status, check the current rule before taking action. The official HRSD and Qiwa platforms provide the most reliable information.
What does green status mean?
A green Nitaqat status indicates a stronger classification than the red range.
However, green does not represent one single level. The current Nitaqat framework uses different classification ranges.
These ranges can have different requirements and service eligibility.
Therefore, you should not assume that every green establishment receives identical benefits.
The employer’s activity, workforce size, and localization rate can affect its classification. HRSD’s current Nitaqat calculator uses these factors when determining the establishment’s range.
For employees, green status generally signals a stronger employer position under Nitaqat. Specific labor services still depend on the applicable rules.
Is the Iqama itself red or green?
No. The physical Iqama card does not become red or green because of Nitaqat.
This distinction matters because many expatriates use the phrase “red Iqama” or “green Iqama.”
The more accurate term is Nitaqat status or employer classification.
Your Iqama identifies your residency and employee information. Nitaqat evaluates the establishment where you work.
These are separate concepts.
Your employer can have a particular Nitaqat classification while your Iqama has its own validity and status.
The official HRSD employee inquiry lets users search non-Saudi employee information with an Iqama number, border number, or passport number and nationality. For more details about your Saudi visa status, learn how to check your Final Exit Visa status online and verify its validity before leaving Saudi Arabia.
What Is Nitaqat in Saudi Arabia?
Nitaqat is Saudi Arabia’s labor localization program for private-sector establishments.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development uses Nitaqat to support Saudization and improve Saudi employment in the private sector.
The program classifies establishments based on their localization performance. This classification helps determine how an establishment performs against applicable labor-market requirements.
Purpose of the Nitaqat Program
The main goal of Nitaqat is to increase employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.
It focuses on Saudization, also called localization.
The program applies to private-sector establishments covered by its rules.
Nitaqat considers the number and proportion of Saudi employees within an establishment. It also accounts for the establishment’s business activity and workforce structure.
The program has changed over time to better match Saudi labor-market conditions.
HRSD’s Nitaqat documentation explains that the program supports national employment while helping establish a more attractive and stable private-sector labor market.
How Nitaqat Classification Works
Nitaqat classification does not depend on one factor alone.
The current HRSD Nitaqat calculator considers several inputs, including:
- Establishment activity
- Total workforce
- Saudi employee count
- Localization percentage
- Special weighting rules
- Applicable localization requirements
HRSD’s current Nitaqat calculator states that the localization coefficient uses Saudi employees divided by total employees, with applicable employee weights.
The required localization level can also differ by economic activity.
This means two companies with similar employee numbers may receive different classifications.
The establishment’s Nitaqat range can therefore change when its workforce or applicable requirements change.
Employees should also understand that Nitaqat rules can differ from rules for individual professional groups.
HRSD currently publishes separate localization requirements for professional groups. Its official inquiry page warns that some red groups may face stopped services for failing to meet required localization rates.
2026 Nitaqat Changes
2026 brings an important new phase of Nitaqat Mutawar.
HRSD announced a new Nitaqat Mutawar phase beginning in 2026. The phase spans three years and aims to localize more than 340,000 additional private-sector jobs for Saudi men and women.
The Ministry designed this phase around current labor-market conditions.
It also aims to balance Saudization with private-sector growth.
Another important change affects how HRSD calculates Saudization rates.
Starting April 15, 2026, HRSD began calculating Nitaqat localization rates using employment contracts electronically documented through Qiwa.
This change creates a direct connection between documented employment contracts and Nitaqat calculations.
HRSD says the change improves data reliability and transparency.
It also requires establishments to maintain accurate employment contract records through Qiwa.
This update matters when you research iqama red green status in 2026.
How to Check Iqama Red Green Status Online
If you want to check iqama red green status, start with the official Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) inquiry service. The service is designed for checking information about non-Saudi employees.
The official HRSD page currently supports three search methods:
- Border number
- Iqama number
- Passport number with nationality
It also requires a verification code before submitting the inquiry.
Check Through the Official HRSD Inquiry
The official route is the HRSD Non-Saudi Employee Inquiry.
Open the official HRSD Non-Saudi Employee Inquiry
This service lets you search employee information using an Iqama number or border number. You can also search with a passport number and nationality.
Use this government service instead of relying on unofficial MOL Iqama red green check websites.
How to Check Using Iqama Number
Follow these steps to check your information:
- Open the official HRSD Non-Saudi Employee Inquiry.
- Select the Iqama number search option.
- Enter your Iqama number.
- Enter the displayed verification code.
- Submit the inquiry.
- Review the information returned by the service.
The HRSD page currently lists the Iqama number as one of its search options. It also requires numbers only in the relevant field.
If the system rejects your number, check each digit carefully. You should also use the official service rather than an old MOL link.
Can You Check Using a Passport Number?
Yes, you can use a passport number for the HRSD inquiry.
However, passport searches require your passport number and nationality.
The current HRSD service specifically states that both details must be entered for this search method.
This option helps expatriates who cannot use their Iqama number.
Enter your passport details exactly as recorded in the government system. Then complete the verification step and submit the inquiry.
Can You Check Using a Border Number?
Yes. HRSD also provides a border number search option.
This option can help new expatriates who have a border number but need to check their employee information.
Enter the border number in the designated field. The official page accepts the border number as an alternative search method.
If the system rejects the number, verify that you entered digits only.
What Information Should You Look For?
After submitting the inquiry, review the information returned by HRSD.
Do not assume that every result page displays a separate field called “Iqama Red Green.”
The official service provides employee inquiry information. It also displays current information about certain professional localization groups.
For employer-level Nitaqat information, HRSD provides a separate Establishment Nitaqat Inquiry.
That service requires an establishment number and the relevant labor-office number.
Iqama Red vs Green Status
The terms red Iqama and green Iqama commonly describe an employer’s Nitaqat position.
They do not describe the physical color of your Iqama card.
| Status | General meaning | What it relates to |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Establishment falls within the red Nitaqat range | Saudization and establishment classification |
| Low Green | Establishment reaches the low green range | Saudization and establishment classification |
| Mid Green | Establishment reaches the medium green range | Saudization and establishment classification |
| High Green | Establishment reaches the high green range | Saudization and establishment classification |
| Platinum | Establishment reaches the highest listed Nitaqat range | Saudization and establishment classification |
The current Nitaqat framework uses Red, Low Green, Medium Green, High Green, and Platinum ranges. Official HRSD documentation explains that range thresholds depend on the establishment’s activity and workforce.
Important: Exact services and restrictions depend on current HRSD and Qiwa rules. Establishment size, activity, occupation, and localization requirements can also matter.
What Are the Nitaqat Categories?
Nitaqat divides eligible establishments into several classification ranges.
The current framework includes:
- Red
- Low Green
- Medium Green
- High Green
- Platinum
HRSD’s official Nitaqat calculator uses the establishment’s economic activity, workforce size, and localization percentage.
Red Range
The Red range represents a lower Nitaqat classification.
It indicates that the establishment does not meet the required localization level for a higher range.
This status can affect access to some labor services.
However, the exact impact depends on the service and current government rules.
Do not rely on old articles that list fixed restrictions for every red establishment.
Low Green Range
Low Green is above the red range.
An establishment reaches this range when its localization performance meets the applicable low-green threshold.
The required percentage can differ by economic activity and workforce size.
Therefore, one fixed percentage does not apply to every establishment.
Medium Green Range
Medium Green represents a higher Nitaqat position than Low Green.
Some HRSD services use Medium Green as a specific eligibility threshold.
For example, the current HRSD visa issuance rules require Medium Green or higher for certain establishment services.
This does not mean every Medium Green establishment receives every available service.
Always check the requirements for the specific service.
High Green Range
High Green represents a stronger localization position than Medium Green.
The establishment must meet the applicable High Green threshold for its activity and workforce.
HRSD’s Nitaqat model calculates range thresholds using activity-specific standards.
This means the High Green threshold can differ between economic activities.
Platinum Range
Platinum represents the highest Nitaqat range in the current classification structure.
It reflects a stronger localization position than the green ranges.
However, Platinum does not mean that every labor service becomes automatically available.
Each service can have its own eligibility requirements.
The current Nitaqat calculator uses the establishment’s activity, workforce size, and localization rate when determining its range.
What Happens If Your Employer Is in the Red Category?
A red Nitaqat classification means the establishment falls within the red range under the applicable localization rules. This classification can affect some labor services available to the establishment.
The impact does not apply equally to every service. Each service has its own eligibility requirements.
HRSD’s Nitaqat guidance lists several restrictions for establishments in the red range. These include limits on new expatriate visas, occupation changes, sponsorship transfers to the establishment, and certain work permit services.
However, employees should not treat older Nitaqat tables as a complete statement of current rules. HRSD updates labor services and localization requirements over time.
Work-Related Services
An employer’s Nitaqat level can affect access to employment-related services.
These services may include:
- Expatriate recruitment
- Work permit services
- Occupation changes
- Employee transfers
- Certain establishment services
For example, HRSD’s current visa service requires eligible establishments to meet at least the Medium Green range in relevant cases.
This shows why Nitaqat status matters to employers.
It also explains why expatriates search for terms such as red iqama status and iqama red status effects.
Recruitment
A red establishment may face restrictions on recruiting new expatriate workers.
HRSD’s Nitaqat guidance lists new expatriate visa restrictions for the red range.
The exact requirement can depend on the service and establishment circumstances.
Employers should check the current Qiwa service requirements before submitting a recruitment request.
Work Permits
Nitaqat classification can also affect work permit services.
Older official Nitaqat guidance lists restrictions on issuing and renewing work permits for red-range establishments.
However, employees should not assume that a red classification automatically cancels their Iqama.
Work permit status and Iqama validity are separate matters.
Current HRSD rules also include specific correction periods for some expired or missing work permits. In August 2026, HRSD extended one such correction period until December 31, 2026.
Employee Transfers
Nitaqat classification can affect an establishment’s ability to receive transferred expatriate workers.
HRSD’s current employee-transfer service includes establishment-level conditions. These include work permit validity and Nitaqat requirements for other entities under the same unified number.
The transfer process runs through Qiwa.
The receiving establishment must meet the applicable requirements before completing the transfer.
Therefore, red iqama transfer should not be treated as a simple yes-or-no question.
The result depends on the current transfer rules and the circumstances of both establishments.
Establishment Services
A red Nitaqat status can restrict other services available to the establishment.
The exact restrictions depend on the service.
HRSD’s official Nitaqat guidance states that each service remains subject to its own regulations.
This distinction is important.
Your employer’s red status does not automatically mean every employee service stops.
Check the specific service before making a decision.
Compliance Consequences
Nitaqat classification reflects an establishment’s localization performance.
A weak classification can signal that the establishment needs to improve its compliance with applicable localization requirements.
HRSD now links Nitaqat calculations to electronically documented employment contracts through Qiwa. This change took effect on April 15, 2026.
This makes accurate employment records more important for employers.
If your employer has a red status, ask the employer to verify its current classification through official HRSD or Qiwa services.
What Are the Benefits of a Green Nitaqat Status?
A green Nitaqat status generally indicates a stronger localization position than the red range.
However, green includes multiple ranges.
These include Low Green, Medium Green, and High Green.
Each range can have different service requirements.
Therefore, green status does not guarantee every possible labor service.
Better Compliance Position
A green classification indicates that the establishment meets a qualifying localization range.
This gives the establishment a stronger position within the Nitaqat system.
The actual range depends on the applicable activity and workforce requirements.
HRSD’s Nitaqat calculator considers the establishment’s activity, workforce size, and localization percentage.
Access to Applicable Labor Services
Some labor services require an establishment to reach a specific Nitaqat range.
For example, HRSD’s current visa service requires Medium Green or higher in specified cases.
This means Low Green, Medium Green, and High Green should not be treated as identical.
Always check the requirement for the exact service you need.
Recruitment and Service Eligibility
A stronger Nitaqat classification can help an eligible establishment access services that require a qualifying range.
These services can include recruitment and other employment-related transactions.
The applicable conditions still depend on the specific Qiwa or HRSD service.
Nitaqat status alone does not guarantee approval.
Employee Transfer Considerations
Green status can also matter when an establishment wants to receive an expatriate worker.
HRSD’s employee-transfer service includes Nitaqat-related conditions at the establishment level.
The receiving establishment must meet the applicable requirements.
The worker must also satisfy the conditions for the requested transfer.
Therefore, green status can support service eligibility, but it does not guarantee every transfer.
Work Permit-Related Services
Official Nitaqat guidance connects classification ranges with work permit services.
Higher ranges generally provide broader access to applicable establishment services.
Still, each transaction can have additional requirements.
Does Red or Green Status Affect Iqama Renewal?
Nitaqat status and Iqama validity are different concepts.
Your Iqama is your Saudi residency document.
Nitaqat classifies your employer or establishment.
A red or green Nitaqat classification does not mean that your physical Iqama becomes red or green.
It also does not mean that Nitaqat alone determines every Iqama renewal decision.
Iqama Validity
Iqama validity concerns your residency document and its expiration.
You should check its validity through the relevant official Saudi services.
Work Permit
A work permit relates to your employment authorization.
Nitaqat rules can affect establishment access to work permit services.
HRSD’s Nitaqat guidance specifically connects different classification ranges with work permit services.
Employer Nitaqat
Nitaqat describes the establishment’s localization classification.
Your employer’s classification can change when its workforce or localization data changes.
Since April 15, 2026, electronically documented Qiwa employment contracts form part of the Nitaqat calculation methodology.
Employee Status
Your individual employee record is separate from your employer’s Nitaqat classification.
HRSD provides a dedicated inquiry service for non-Saudi employee information.
Huroob
Huroob is a separate employment status related to absence from work.
It should not be confused with Nitaqat.
An employee can therefore have:
- A valid or expired Iqama
- A particular employer Nitaqat classification
- A separate work permit status
- A separate employment status
These systems can interact, but they do not represent the same thing.
Labor-Service Eligibility
Nitaqat can affect whether an establishment qualifies for certain labor services.
Therefore, do not use a simple rule such as:
“Red status means Iqama renewal is impossible.”
That claim can be misleading.
Instead, check the current HRSD or Qiwa requirement for the exact transaction.
Does Red or Green Status Affect Job Transfer?
Yes, Nitaqat classification can affect employee transfer services, but the effect depends on the current rules and the establishments involved.
This is why searches such as iqama red status transfer, red iqama transfer, green status transfer, and Nitaqat transfer are common.
HRSD provides an electronic expatriate employee transfer service through Qiwa. The current service includes several establishment-level requirements.
How Employer Classification Can Matter
The receiving employer must satisfy the applicable transfer requirements.
HRSD currently requires several conditions for the employee-transfer service. These include valid establishment records, valid work permits across relevant entities, wage protection compliance, and Nitaqat requirements for other entities under the unified number.
Therefore, the receiving employer’s classification matters.
Does Red Status Automatically Prevent Transfer?
No single rule covers every transfer situation.
Older Nitaqat guidance lists restrictions on receiving expatriate sponsorship for red-range establishments.
However, current transfer rules can depend on the receiving establishment and the specific transaction.
Always check the latest HRSD or Qiwa requirements.
How to Verify Transfer Eligibility
Use the official Qiwa employee transfer service and review the current requirements.
HRSD confirms that employee transfers operate through Qiwa. The worker can also review and respond to the transfer request through Qiwa Individuals.
This approach is more reliable than using a general red green iqama check result to predict transfer eligibility.
Does Iqama Red Green Status Affect Work Visa Services?
Yes, an employer’s Nitaqat classification can affect access to certain work visa services. However, Nitaqat is only one part of the eligibility requirements.
HRSD’s current visa issuance service requires the establishment to meet several conditions. These include an active establishment, valid work permits, Wage Protection compliance, and an eligible business activity. The service also sets Nitaqat requirements for establishments under the same unified number.
For certain visa services, the establishment must reach at least Medium Green. Some startup establishments can qualify under specific Very Small Green rules.
This means a red Nitaqat status can create service limitations. A green classification can provide access to services when the establishment meets all other requirements.
Do not assume that green status guarantees visa approval. The establishment must satisfy the complete requirements for the requested service.
Difference Between Iqama Status, Nitaqat Status and Huroob
These terms describe different parts of Saudi Arabia’s employment and residency system.
| Term | What it refers to |
|---|---|
| Iqama status | Your residency document and its validity |
| Nitaqat status | Your employer’s establishment classification |
| Huroob | A separate absence-from-work status |
| Work permit | Authorization connected to employment |
| Visa status | The status of a particular Saudi visa |
Iqama Status
Iqama status relates to your Saudi residency document.
It can include information such as validity and expiry.
It does not describe your employer’s Nitaqat range.
Nitaqat Status
Nitaqat status describes the classification of an establishment.
HRSD uses localization performance and other applicable factors to classify establishments.
The official HRSD service also provides a separate Establishment Nitaqat Inquiry.
Huroob
Huroob is separate from Nitaqat.
It relates to an employee’s absence-from-work status.
Therefore, a Huroob status should not be treated as a red Nitaqat status.
Work Permit
A work permit relates to employment authorization.
Nitaqat can affect access to some work permit services.
However, work permit status and Nitaqat status remain different concepts.
Visa Status
Visa status relates to a specific Saudi visa.
This can include work-related visa services.
Nitaqat may form part of the establishment’s eligibility for certain services.
Understanding these differences prevents confusion when checking iqama red green status.
Why Is My Iqama Showing Red Status?
First, check whether the red indicator actually refers to your Iqama.
The term red Iqama often describes an employer’s Nitaqat classification. However, HRSD also uses red indicators for certain professional localization groups.
The current HRSD employee inquiry page explains that a red color can identify a professional group where services have stopped because the required localization rate was not achieved.
This creates an important distinction.
Your employer’s Nitaqat status and your professional group’s localization status may involve different rules.
Employer Nitaqat Classification
Your employer may fall within the red Nitaqat range.
This classification reflects the establishment’s localization position.
It can affect some labor services available to the establishment.
Saudization Requirements
Saudi localization rules require establishments to meet applicable Saudization rates.
These rates can vary by activity and workforce structure.
An establishment that does not meet its applicable requirements can face classification or service consequences.
Professional Localization
Some occupations have separate localization requirements.
HRSD currently displays professional groups with red and yellow indicators in its employee inquiry system.
A red professional indicator means services have stopped for that group because the required localization rate was not achieved.
Establishment Compliance
An establishment’s compliance position can affect its access to government labor services.
This includes requirements connected with employment records and other labor regulations.
Government Classification Changes
Saudi labor policies continue to evolve.
New localization decisions can change requirements for specific activities or professions.
Therefore, you should not assume that every red status in Saudi Arabia has the same meaning.
Why Did My Status Change From Green to Red?
A change from green to red can result from changes in the establishment’s classification data or applicable requirements.
However, you should not assume one specific cause without checking the official records.
Several factors can influence the result.
Changes in Saudization Calculations
HRSD can update how it calculates localization rates.
In 2026, HRSD changed the Nitaqat calculation methodology.
From April 15, 2026, the calculation uses employment contracts electronically documented through Qiwa.
This change links contract data more directly with Nitaqat calculations.
Workforce Changes
Changes in the Saudi or non-Saudi workforce can affect an establishment’s localization rate.
Hiring, departures, and employee records can change the calculation.
The effect depends on the applicable Nitaqat rules.
Contract Documentation
Qiwa contract documentation now plays an important role in Nitaqat calculations.
HRSD states that Saudi employees’ contracts must be documented through Qiwa for inclusion in Saudization rates.
Missing or incomplete records can therefore affect an establishment’s classification.
New Localization Requirements
HRSD can introduce new localization requirements for specific professions or economic activities.
These requirements can change an establishment’s position even when its workforce remains similar.
Government Classification Updates
Nitaqat classification can change when government rules or calculation methods change.
For this reason, a previous green Nitaqat status does not guarantee the same result today.
If your employer’s status changed, ask the establishment to verify its current classification through the official HRSD or Qiwa systems.
How Can an Employer Improve Its Nitaqat Status?
An employer can improve its Nitaqat position by meeting the applicable localization requirements.
The exact steps depend on the establishment’s activity, size, and workforce.
Meet Saudization Requirements
The establishment should employ Saudi workers according to its applicable localization requirements.
The required rate can vary by economic activity and other Nitaqat factors.
Maintain Correct Employee Records
Accurate workforce records help ensure correct Nitaqat calculations.
Employers should keep employee information updated across the relevant government systems.
Document Employment Contracts
Employers should document employment contracts through Qiwa.
HRSD now uses electronically documented contracts in its Nitaqat calculation methodology.
This makes accurate contract records especially important in 2026.
Maintain Accurate Workforce Information
Employers should review their workforce data regularly.
Incorrect records can create problems with compliance calculations.
HRSD’s updated contract requirements also aim to improve the accuracy of labor-market data.
Follow Occupation-Specific Localization Rules
Some professions have their own Saudization requirements.
Employers should check the latest HRSD decision for their specific activity and occupations.
The Ministry publishes procedural guides for new localization decisions.
Use Qiwa Services
Qiwa acts as a major digital platform for Saudi labor-sector services.
Employers can use it to manage employment contracts and other labor processes.
HRSD describes Qiwa as the unified digital gateway for labor-sector services.
Common Problems When Checking Iqama Red Green Status
Checking iqama red green status can sometimes produce confusing results.
The problem may involve the search information, verification process, or the difference between employee and establishment records.
Iqama Number Is Not Accepted
Enter your Iqama number using digits only.
The official HRSD inquiry specifically instructs users to enter numbers in the Iqama field.
If the number still fails, verify it against your official documents.
You can also try another available search method.
Border Number Is Not Accepted
Check every digit before submitting the inquiry.
The HRSD service accepts a border number as an alternative search method.
Do not add spaces or unrelated characters.
If the system still rejects it, use the official HRSD support channels.
Passport Search Requires Nationality
A passport search requires both the passport number and nationality.
The HRSD inquiry clearly states this requirement.
Select the correct nationality before submitting the request.
Verification Code Does Not Work
Enter the verification code exactly as displayed.
If the code becomes unclear, refresh the verification image and try again.
Use the latest code shown by the official HRSD page.
Information Appears Outdated
Government employment records may not reflect a recent change immediately.
First, confirm the information with your employer.
Then check the official HRSD or Qiwa service again.
Avoid relying on old screenshots or unofficial MOL Iqama red green results.
Employer Classification Does Not Match Expectations
Your employee inquiry and employer Nitaqat inquiry serve different purposes.
HRSD provides a separate Establishment Nitaqat Inquiry for establishment classification.
If the results appear different, compare the exact service and information being displayed.
Do not assume that an employee indicator automatically represents the establishment’s overall Nitaqat range.
Iqama Red Green Status FAQs
1. What does iqama red green mean?
Iqama red green usually refers to the employer’s Nitaqat classification. It does not mean the physical Iqama card has a red or green color.
2. How can I check my iqama red green status?
Use the official HRSD Non-Saudi Employee Inquiry. You can search with an Iqama number, border number, or passport number with nationality.
3. Is the Iqama itself red or green?
No. Red and green commonly describe an employer’s Nitaqat position. HRSD also uses color indicators for certain professional localization groups.
4. What does red Nitaqat status mean?
Red indicates that an establishment falls within the red Nitaqat range. It can affect access to certain labor services.
5. What does green Nitaqat status mean?
Green indicates a qualifying Nitaqat range above red. Green includes Low Green, Medium Green, and High Green classifications.
6. Can I check Nitaqat status using my Iqama number?
You can use your Iqama number to check non-Saudi employee information through HRSD. Employer-level Nitaqat classification uses a separate establishment inquiry.
7. Can I check iqama red green status using my passport number?
Yes. HRSD allows passport searches when you provide your passport number and nationality.
8. Does red status affect Iqama renewal?
Do not assume that red Nitaqat automatically prevents Iqama renewal. Iqama validity, work permits, Nitaqat, and labor-service eligibility are separate matters.
9. Does Nitaqat status affect job transfer?
It can affect employee transfer eligibility because establishment-level Nitaqat requirements form part of some transfer rules. Check the current Qiwa requirements for your specific transfer.
10. What is the difference between Nitaqat and Huroob?
Nitaqat classifies an employer or establishment. Huroob refers to an employee’s absence-from-work status. They are separate systems.
11. Why did my employer’s status change?
Possible factors include workforce changes, updated Saudization calculations, contract documentation, and new localization requirements. HRSD changed the Nitaqat calculation methodology on April 15, 2026.
12. Where can I verify my current Nitaqat status?
Use official HRSD and Qiwa service. HRSD provides both a Non-Saudi Employee Inquiry and an Establishment Nitaqat Inquiry.