If you’ve recently arrived in Saudi Arabia with a new visa, one of the first things you’ll need to do is check your border number in Saudi Arabia.
This number is essential — it’s your digital identity in the Kingdom, used for Iqama issuance, residency services, work permits, and more.
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Many newcomers often ask:
“What exactly is a border number?”
“How can I check my border number online without visiting the Jawazat office?”
In this article, we’ll walk you through what a border number is, why it’s important, and the easiest ways to check it online using Saudi government portals like Absher and Muqeem.
Let’s dive in.
What Is a Border Number in Saudi Arabia?
A border number (Arabic: رقم الحدود) is a unique identification number automatically assigned to every person who enters Saudi Arabia on a visa, whether for work, visit, Hajj, or Umrah.
It is created by Jawazat (Saudi Passport Department) at the time of entry and is linked to your passport.
This number helps the government track your visa, entry details, and Iqama processing.
Where You Can Find It
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Printed on your passport’s entry stamp at the time of arrival.
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Available online through Absher or the Muqeem portal.
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Issued before the Iqama (residency permit) is created.
Once your Iqama number is issued, the border number is replaced by that for most services — but it’s still needed for status checks and record verification.
Why You Need to Check Your Border Number
Checking your border number in Saudi Arabia is essential for several reasons:
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Iqama Processing:
Your company or sponsor will need your border number to issue your residency permit (Iqama). -
Online Service Access:
Government portals like Absher, Muqeem, and the Ministry of Interior (MOI) use the border number to link your entry records. -
Visa Verification:
It helps confirm that your visa is registered in the system and that your entry to the Kingdom is officially recorded. -
Avoid Errors or Delays:
Sometimes, entry data may not sync correctly between the border control and Jawazat systems.
Checking it ensures that your visa and residency processes continue smoothly.Recommend: How to Get an Emergency Cash Loan from Saudi Al Awal Bank (SAB)
How to Check Border Number in Saudi Arabia (Online Methods)
There are two official online methods to check your border number — via Absher and Muqeem.
Let’s go through both step-by-step.
Method 1: Check Border Number via Absher
The Absher platform is Saudi Arabia’s official government e-service portal used by residents and visitors alike.
Here’s how you can check your border number:
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Go to the official Absher website (suggest internal link:
/absher-login-guide). -
Choose the “Individuals” option.
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Click on “New User” (you don’t need to log in to check).
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Scroll down to the section titled “Query Border Number.”
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Enter:
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Passport Number
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Visa Type (e.g., Visit, Work, or Hajj)
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Country of Issue
-
-
Enter the captcha code and click “Inquire.”
Within seconds, your border number will appear on the screen along with your entry details.
Tip: Save or note this number for future use during your Iqama processing or visa renewal.
Method 2: Check Border Number via Muqeem Portal
The Muqeem platform (run by Jawazat) also provides a convenient way to verify your border number.
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Steps:
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Visit the Muqeem website (suggest external link:
muqeem.sa). -
Choose the option “Query Border Number for Newcomers.”
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Enter your passport number and select your nationality.
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Click “Check.”
Your border number will instantly appear with your visa type and entry date.
This method is particularly useful if Absher is under maintenance or you are unable to access it.
Offline Method: Check the Border Number on Your Passport
If you entered Saudi Arabia recently, you can also find your border number stamped on your passport.
Look for:
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The entry stamp issued by Saudi Immigration.
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The number written above or below “Ruqm Al-Hudood” (رقم الحدود).
It usually consists of 10 digits and serves as your temporary identification number until your Iqama is issued.
Example of Border Number Format
A typical Saudi border number looks like this:
4001234567
It’s a 10-digit numeric code with no letters or special characters.
Remember: this number is unique to your entry and changes if you exit and re-enter on a new visa.
Difference Between Border Number and Iqama Number
| Feature | Border Number | Iqama Number |
|---|---|---|
| When Issued | At the time of entry | After the Iqama issuance |
| Issued By | Jawazat (Immigration) | Ministry of Interior |
| Length | 10 digits | 10 digits |
| Purpose | Tracks visa entry | Tracks residency |
| Validity | Temporary | Permanent until exit/final |
So, before your Iqama is processed, your border number acts as your identity in Saudi records.
Common Issues While Checking Border Number
Sometimes, you may face errors when trying to check your border number online.
Here’s what they mean:
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| Error Message | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| “No Record Found” | Entry not registered yet | Wait 24–48 hours after arrival |
| “Invalid Passport Number” | Typo in passport details | Double-check your entry |
| “System Maintenance” | Absher or Muqeem downtime | Try again later or use another portal |
| “Visa Type Mismatch” | Selected the wrong visa type | Recheck the visa category |
If none of these work, visit your nearest Jawazat office with your passport and visa for assistance.
Who Can Use the Border Number Check Service
You can use the online check if you are:
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A new expatriate worker who has just entered Saudi Arabia.
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A family visit visa holder or dependant.
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A Hajj or Umrah pilgrim wants to verify entry records.
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A visitor on a temporary business or medical visa.
The online query is free and available 24/7 through official Saudi government portals.
When You Need to Check Your Border Number
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After entering the Kingdom for the first time.
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Before applying for your Iqama or Muqeem card.
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When registering for the Absher account.
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During the Iqama renewal or visa extension.
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For tracking or correcting visa records.
Quick Tips
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Always save your border number as soon as you find it.
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Use the same passport for all processes until the Iqama is issued.
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Avoid sharing your border number publicly — it’s sensitive data.
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If your border number doesn’t appear after 3 days, contact Jawazat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is a border number in Saudi Arabia used for?
Your border number is used to identify your immigration entry record in Saudi Arabia. It’s essential for issuing Iqama, checking visa validity, and registering for government e-services.
2. Can I check my border number without Absher?
Yes. You can use the Muqeem portal to check your border number online with just your passport number and nationality.
3. How long does it take to get a border number after entering Saudi Arabia?
It’s usually created instantly at immigration. However, it may take up to 24–48 hours to appear in online systems like Absher or Muqeem.
4. Does my border number change every time I enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Each new visa entry generates a new border number, even if you’re the same person.
5. What should I do if my border number is missing or incorrect?
Visit the nearest Jawazat office with your passport and visa copy. The officers can manually verify and correct your record in the system.
Conclusion
Checking your border number in Saudi Arabia is a quick yet vital step for every expatriate and visitor.
It ensures that your entry, visa, and residency information are properly linked in the system — helping you avoid unnecessary delays when processing your Iqama or accessing e-services.
Whether through Absher, Muqeem, or your passport entry stamp, it only takes a few minutes to verify.
Call to Action
If you’ve recently arrived in Saudi Arabia, check your border number today to make sure your entry record is active.
Once confirmed, proceed to create your Absher account and start your Iqama process smoothly.
For more Saudi visa and residency guides, visit our “Expat Life in KSA” section (internal link suggestion: /expat-life-guide).
You can also visit the official Absher portal (external link suggestion: https://www.absher.sa) for direct access.
