๐ข Checking Iqama Red Green Status – MOL Status Explained (2025 Guide)
As an expat in Saudi Arabia, your Iqama status is the key to understanding your employment eligibility and the legal standing of your sponsoring company. One important indicator is your “Red Green status” in the Ministry of Labor (MOL) system, also known as Nitaqat status.
In this post, we'll break down what the Red-Green Iqama status means, how to check it, and what to do if your status isn't favorable.
๐ What is Iqama Red Green Status?
The Red-Green status system is part of Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat Program, launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) to encourage the hiring of Saudi nationals.
It categorizes companies based on their Saudization (Nitaqat) levels into:
- ๐ข Green (Low to Platinum) – Compliant and eligible to hire expats
- ๐ด Red – Non-compliant, restricted from new visas and transfers
Your personal Iqama status reflects the category of your employer.
๐งพ Color Categories in Detail:
Color Category | Description |
---|---|
๐ข Platinum | Top-performing company with high Saudization |
๐ข High Green | Excellent compliance with Saudization |
๐ก Yellow (Phased Out) | Previously mid-level compliance (now merged) |
๐ด Red | Poor compliance, penalties apply |
If your Iqama is under a Red status company, you might face restrictions like:
- Not being able to transfer sponsorship
- Delays in Iqama renewal
- Limited access to government services
๐ How to Check Your Iqama Red Green Status
Here’s how you can check your Iqama and company Nitaqat status using the MOL website:
✅ Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to the MOL Inquiry Portal:
https://www.mol.gov.sa/IndividualUser/BasicInfo.aspx - Enter your:
- Iqama Number
- Date of Birth (choose Gregorian or Hijri)
- Enter the captcha code
- Click on "Search" or "Submit"
- You’ll see the result with details such as:
- Full Name
- Work Status
- Company Name
- Company Nitaqat Color (Red/Green/etc.)
๐ข What Does Your Color Status Mean?
๐ข Green or Platinum
- ✅ Your employer is compliant
- ✅ No issues with Iqama renewal or transfer
- ✅ Faster services and visa issuance
๐ด Red
- ⚠️ Your company is non-compliant
- ⚠️ May face delays in Iqama processing or fines
- ⚠️ You may transfer to a green-status employer without sponsor approval
๐ How to Deal with Red Status
- Talk to your employer: Ask if steps are being taken to improve the company’s Saudization.
- Transfer Sponsorship: You may be allowed to move to a Green-status company even without your sponsor’s consent.
- Monitor regularly: Check status monthly to stay updated.
- Avoid renewing contracts with Red-status companies if alternatives are available.
⚠️ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I transfer my Iqama if my employer is Red?
Yes, if your company is under the Red category and hasn’t paid salaries or renewed your Iqama on time, you may be allowed to transfer without their approval.
Q2: Does Red status affect my personal legal standing?
No, it affects your employer’s ability to provide services for you. You’re not personally in violation unless your Iqama is expired or you overstay.
Q3: How often should I check my status?
Ideally, once every 1–2 months or especially before renewing your Iqama or switching jobs.
๐ Related Guides You Might Like
- How to Check Your Iqama Expiry Without Absher (2025)
- Iqama Transfer Process in Saudi Arabia (Naqal Kafala)
- How to Renew Your Iqama Easily in KSA
๐ Final Thoughts
Understanding your Iqama’s Red-Green status helps you stay ahead and avoid unwanted surprises. Whether you’re planning a job change or simply want peace of mind, checking your MOL status regularly is a smart move.
✅ Tip: Bookmark the MOL portal and check your status once a month.
๐ฌ Still confused or have questions? Comment below and we’ll help you out. And don’t forget to explore more expat tips at My Life in Saudi.
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