Are you struggling to find your border number in Saudi Arabia? This unique identification code is essential for expatriates and visitors alike, as it plays a crucial role in various administrative processes. Whether you need it for visa extensions, medical reports, or other legal requirements, knowing how to check your border number is vital. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to easily check your border number online, including methods that don’t require an Absher account.
What is a Border Number?
A border number is a unique 10-digit identification code assigned to expatriates upon entering Saudi Arabia. This number is crucial for tracking visa status and other important information related to residency. It is typically handwritten on the visa page of your passport by immigration officials and serves as a reference for various administrative processes.
Why You Need Your Border Number
Your border number is not just a random series of digits, it has several important uses:
- Visa Extensions: Required for extending visit visas.
- Dependent Fees: Necessary for paying fees related to newborn dependents.
- Medical Reports: Used to check medical reports for residency permits.
- Hajj Permits: Essential for obtaining permits for Hajj on a visit visa.
- Work Permit Status: Helps in checking the status of work permits via the Ministry of Labor (MOL).
Given its importance, knowing how to check your border number efficiently can save you time and hassle.
How to Check Border Number Online
The most straightforward way to check your border number is through the Absher portal, an official platform provided by the Saudi government. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the Absher Website: Go to the official Absher portal.
- Select 'Individuals': Choose the "Individuals" option from the homepage.
- Language Preference: Switch the language to English if necessary.
- Navigate to 'Query Border Number': Look for the option labeled “Query Border Number.”
- Select Your Citizenship Type:
- Choose “GCC Citizen” if applicable.
- Select “Non-GCC Citizen” otherwise.
- Enter Required Information:
- Input your visa number.
- Enter the visa issue date (available on your visa document).
- Complete the CAPTCHA verification.
- Submit Your Query: Click on the "Inquire" button.
- View you’re Border Number: The system will display your border number along with other relevant details.
If you encounter an error stating "Border Number not found," it is advisable to contact the General Directorate of Passports for assistance.
How to Check Border Number without Absher?
If you do not have access to Absher or prefer another method, you can check your border number through the Ministry of Labor's website:
- Visit the MOL Website: Open the Ministry of Labor’s official website.
- Select 'E-Services': Navigate to the “E-Services” section.
- Choose 'Expatriate Inquiry': Click on “Expatriate Inquiry” from the list of services.
- Enter Your Border Number or Passport Number:
- You can use either your border number or passport number.
- Select your nationality from the dropdown menu.
- Complete CAPTCHA Verification: Enter the verification code displayed on the screen.
- Submit Your Query: Click on “Submit” to view your Iqama status and other details.
This method is particularly useful for those who may not have an Absher account or are facing technical issues with it.
How Do I Find My Passport Border Number?
Your passport border number can typically be found in two places:
- On Your Visa Page: It is usually handwritten by immigration officials when you enter Saudi Arabia.
- Through Online Queries: As described above, you can retrieve it online via either Absher or MOL using your visa details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check my border number using my passport number?
Yes, you can use your passport number to check your Iqama status through the MOL's inquiry services if you do not have your border number handy.
What should I do if my border number is not found?
If you receive a "not found" message when checking your border number, contact the General Directorate of Passports directly for assistance.
Is there a fee associated with checking my border number?
No, both Absher and MOL services are free of charge for checking border numbers and related inquiries.
How often should I check my border number?
It’s advisable to check your border number whenever you need it for administrative processes such as visa extensions or other legal matters in Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Knowing how to perform a border number check in Saudi Arabia is essential for expatriates and visitors alike. Whether you choose to use Absher or access services through the Ministry of Labor, both methods are straightforward and efficient. By following this guide, you'll be equipped with all necessary information regarding your border number, ensuring that you're always prepared for any administrative requirements during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
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